THE ULTIMATE RESOURCE FOR THE ARMED CITIZEN

CARJACKED! STEER CLEAR OF TROUBLE

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Aim For Success Target Secrets of the Pros volume 5 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2008

usconcealedcarry.com

CONTENTS NOV/DEC 2008 COLUMNS 38 IT’S THE LAW Making Judges BY K.L. JAMISON

42 REAL WORLD CARRY GEAR BY DUANE DAIKER 50 ARMED SENIOR 08 CITIZEN STREET See It Coming: Survival Of The Smartest TACTICS BY BRUCE N. EIMER, A Study Of Fighting In Ph.D. Your Home BY GABE SUAREZ

12 SIG SAUER ACADEMY How To Be A Good Student BY GEORGE HARRIS 34 THE TARGETS 14 OF THE PROS THE BY TODD BURGREEN 54 ORDINARY GUY On A Cold February JPFO LIBERTY 22 MY JOURNEY INTO RELOADING Night, It All Came CREW BY DUANE DAIKER To An End Making Change Happen BY MARK WALTERS BY L. NEIL SMITH 24 RECYCLE YOUR BRASS BY CHRISTOPHER PILON 18 PROFILE DEPARTMENTS 28 AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION Russ White BY JOHN HIGGS

06 40 LETTERS TO AIM FOR SUCCESS 30 FORCE- THE EDITOR BY TOM GIVENS ON-FORCE LED TACTICAL FLASHLIGHTS NOTEBOOK 07 46 Carjacked! BY TIM THORSTENSON TRUE STORIES BY JACK RUMBAUGH 3 CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE Volume 5 - Nov./Dec. 2008 tIM’S THOUGHTS

Publisher & Editor Timothy J. Schmidt Managing Editor I AM A LUCKY MAN! Kathy Jackson Art Director y the time this issue has made it into your hands, you’re Betty Shonts Bprobably starting to reflect on the past year. At least that’s Circulation Manager Laura Otto what I always do in December. Copy Editor Here’s a quick peek into my reflections... John Higgs Kathy Jackson and Betty Shonts have done a fantastic job of Column Editors Duane A. Daiker taking Concealed Carry Magazine to the next level. The USCCA Bruce N. Eimer, Ph.D George Harris website staff have been working feverishly on building a world K.L. Jamison class website portal. My kids are all doing well at their new Jack Rumbaugh L. Neil Smith - JPFO Liberty Crew school. And most important, my wife and I are getting ready to Gabriel Suarez Mark A. Walters celebrate 15 years of marriage. Contributing Writers Yes, I am a lucky man. As you reflect back on YOUR year, I Todd Burgreen Tom Givens challenge you to focus on the blessings and look at the challenges John Higgs Christopher Pilon as opportunities in disguise. Tim Thorstenson Take care and God Bless, Advertising Sales Bob Cole 360-665-0542 E-mail: [email protected]

Signed articles in Concealed Carry Magazine NOV/DEC 2008 COVER reflect the views of the author, and are notnecessarily the views of the editors at Delta Media, LLC. The claims PHOTOGRAPHER: Kathy Jackson and opinions in the paid advertisements published in this magazine are not necessarily the claims and MODEL: Don Stahlnecker, programmer for opinions of Delta Media, LLC. Delta Media, LLC takes no responsibility for these views, claims or opinions. CCM, shows off his wilderness rig, a Glock Concealed Carry Magazine and the U.S. Concealed Carry Association are registered trademarks of Delta 20 (10mm) in a Blade Tech Kydex holster. Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2004- 2008 by Delta Media, LLC. Reproduction, copying, He’s standing next to his 1981 Jeep or distribution of Concealed Carry Magazine is prohibited without written permission. Wagoneer on a logging road deep in the Published for U.S. Concealed Carry by: heart of Washington state, with beautiful Mt. Ranier in the background. A tiny Photon MicroLight dangles from his belt loop. 4466 County Road P - Suite 204 Jackson, WI 53037 “When I’m not out in the woods, I usually (877) 677-1919 • Customer Service carry a Glock 26 (9mm) in a Kydex IWB holster that I’ve heavily modified to (262) 677-8877 • U.S. Concealed Carry suit my own needs,” Don reports. He recently purchased a sturdy leather Concealed Carry Magazine - October 2008 Issue; October 3, 2008 (USPS: 022-302, ISSN: 1550-7866) is belt from Ted Blocker Holsters to replace the battered and stretched no- published 8 times per year for $39.00 per year by Delta Media, LLC, 4466 County Road P - STE 204, Jackson, name belt seen in the cover photo, a change that he notes made a world of WI 53037-9272. Periodicals postage paid at Jackson, difference in improving both comfort and concealability. WI and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Concealed Carry Magazine, 4466 County Road P - STE 204, Jackson, WI 53037-9272. CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 RELIABILITY. FIRST TIME, EVERY TIME.


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SIG_compactC3_CM.indd 1 8/27/08 4:48:03 PM LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Due to volume received, not all letters can be answered. Letters may be edited for space and clarity. Editor, qualification course did I ever wear the In the Oct. ‘08 issue, Diane Walls states issue side holster that came with our Send your letters to: of the FNH Five-sevenN’s AP capability, weapon. All other times both on and off Concealed Carry Magazine “Another myth has been busted.” To be duty I carried my duty weapon appendix Attn: Editor fair, that is true of the current civilian-on- carry style. 4466 Hwy P - Suite 204 Jackson, WI 53037 ly offerings. The original SS190 and pos- I found that the appendix method of sibly the SS192 was capable of penetrat- carry was both comfortable and easily Or email: [email protected] ing soft body armor. The other question I concealed my full size Sig Sauer P229. It have, as someone interested in buying a also allows for ease of draw from a seated Five-SeveN, where does it say that is not position, be it on and airplane at 35,000 drop safe? I, unfortunately, live in CA and feet or at your favorite local restaurant. it is my understanding that all handguns Never once in five years was my weap- ACROSS THE sold here must be drop safe. on in jeopardy of being exposed inadver- TB (via the web) tently while we conducted our missions EDITOR’S DESK in Americas skies. My testing of FN FiveSeven ammuni- Even today as a former Federal Air ith the coming holiday tion was limited to what is available on Marshal, I carry every day and my meth- season, the end of the the commercial market, since the anec- od of carry the appendix carry. year is fast approach- dotal reputation I was working to “bust” Francis L. (via the web) W ing. We at CCM have many was that the FiveSeven, with its rifle-type changes in the works for 2009. round, could cut through body armor Editor, with any of the rounds sold to the public In the “True Stories” section of the Oct. One you’ll notice right away: for it. There are cartridges specifically for ‘08 issue, you quoted an incident where beginning with this issue, the the purpose of piercing body armor, sold a robber held an “elderly couple” at gun- ALL-NEW USCCA website is to military and law enforcement only. My point. I had to laugh when I saw that taking shape! It’s been in the police contact, who instructed at our state the “elderly” male victim was 61 years of works for many months, and police academy, shared his test results age. we hope you’ll enjoy the new with me; they had not had any penetra- tion with this pistol as they were using it, I am 61. Last year I completed the features and ease of use. If you either. This leads me to believe that there 250 course at Gunsite Academy and am haven’t stopped by the website are very few police departments in our planning to attend either the 260 or 350 in awhile, come check it out at area willing to buy the specialized armor- course when I am 62 (and even more www.USConcealedCarry.com. We elderly). I can draw my XD from my piercing round, probably for liability think you’ll like what you see. reasons. This is not to say that some of Blackhawk SERPA holster and place a Dear Anonymous: For an these military-type rounds couldn’t make head shot in a target at a short distance it illegally onto the streets. We hope they in less than one second. Elderly? upcoming issue of the maga- don’t. John Steinbeck once said, “Don’t pick zine, I would like to hear from The owner’s manual for the FiveSeven a fight with an old man. If he is too old to people who haven’t “come out” states that they don’t recommend carry fight, he’ll just kill you.” Indeed. Maybe as gun owners to family and we should change that to “elderly.” with a live round in the chamber. The friends. If you are interested reason, they said, was that there could be Tim Hall in participating in this project, an inertial detonation should the pistol Lakewood, Colorado be dropped. I was a bit amazed that they please send an email to editor@ would not put a firing pin block safety in Corrections, USConcealedCarry.com. I’ll have but it was right there in print. Oct. 2008 CCM: some basic questions for you to Diane Walls answer, and I promise to keep In “Botched ATM Robbery” (page 7), your name and all identifying Editor, the town of Gladstone and the Kansas details private. In reference to your October 2008 is- City Star were incorrectly located in sue and the article “Appendix Carry” by Kansas. Both are in Missouri. Stay safe, and have a wonder- Gabe Suarez: In the five years I served as The picnic shown in the photos on ful holiday season. a Federal Air Marshal in one of the north pages 14-16 was organized and promot- east field offices, this is the only method ed by Virginia Citizens Defense League of carry that I used. Only when going (VCDL). Visit their website at www.vcdl. to the range to qualify on the standard org 6 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 TRUE STORIES CARRY A GUN... IT WILL SAVE YOUR LIFE.

TEEN ROBBER SHOT man was murdered at the same store distraction allowed Abdefattah to hand Joshua Eastman, 28, was unloading the permit holder works for. the baby to his wife and draw his gun. groceries in an East Stroudsburg, PA, The Buffalo News • NY “Five, six times, I don’t know. I’ve never Wal-Mart parking lot when 17 year-old shot someone,” 29-year-old Abdelfattah Reneau Jean Jacques approached him, AND ANOTHER... said. Martin died on the scene. wearing a bandana over his face and Police have determined it was self- Neither Nagi or Abdelfattah are carrying a handgun. defense when two men fired at two strangers to violence; both have been Eastman told Jacques he had no robbers who approached them in the victims to previous store robberies. cash, but Jacques became threatening street. Abdelfattah bought his gun a year ago and demanding. Eastman then pulled No names have been released, but and said the only thing he’d ever shot at out his wallet and dropped it on pur- one robber, a man in his 20s, died after before this incident was a target. When pose, hoping his delay tactics would at- being shot twice. His 17 year-old ac- someone asked why he fired so many tract attention. As Eastman ducked to complice was shot twice in the left arm. shots at Martin, Abdelfattah said, “How pick up the wallet, Jacques fired a shot Police spokeswoman Christine through the passenger window. O’Brien said the shooting was justifi- Eastman dropped to the ground, able homicide and no charges would be drew his licensed .32-caliber handgun, filed against the victims. “How many shots and shot Jacques in the legs from under The Philadelphia Inquirer • PA the car door. does it take to Police say Jacques fired several more THIS ONE WAS SHOT DEAD times at his intended victim before flee- An unnamed victim went to his rela- kill someone? I ing. He was later found hiding in a land- tive’s house in Pleasant Grove, AL, and don’t know. It’s scaped area of the parking lot. was confronted by two armed men who Jacques was treated for three gun- demanded money. family first.” shot wounds to the legs, and has been The victim responded by drawing charged with a long list of offenses, in- his own gun and shooting one of the cluding attempted homicide. Eastman robbers, 18 year-old Marquis Ledelle received minor injuries from broken Strange, who was pronounced dead many shots does it take to kill some- glass. on the scene. Police are still looking for one? I don’t know.” He added, “It’s fam- www.mcall.com other robber. ily first.” The Birmingham News • AL PalmBeachPost.com • FL ANOTHER TEEN ROBBER SHOT A pizza delivery man was confronted HE THREATENED A BABY by three robbers while out making a de- Robert C. Martin, 35, walked into A1A BROTHER DEFENDS SISTER livery. At least one of the robbers was Discount Beverage and pretended to be Donald Robert Tomlinson, 29, of Lee armed with a gun. The delivery man a friendly customer. He then pulled out County was found guilty of violating a drew his handgun and shot one of the a gun and threatened Yamen Abdelfat- protective order for the third time when robbers, an unidentified 15 year-old, tah, who was visiting family and was he waited at his estranged wife’s house in the back. The robber is recovering in sitting was his 7 month-old son on his for her to return from a family outing. stable condition, and the other two re- knee. Noel Nagi, the store owner and Once she arrived, Tomlinson attacked main at large. grandfather of the baby, told the robber her, knocking her to the ground and Buffalo police spokesman Mi- to take the cash. “Just don’t do anything choking her. chael J. DeGeorge said, “He has a per- crazy. There’s a baby,” he said. Her brother pulled out a gun and shot mit for the gun, and he apparently Martin leveled the gun at the baby him in the leg. used it lawfully to defend himself.” and replied, “I don’t give a --.” Just then, www.timesnews.net • TN Sixteen years ago, a pizza delivery- a customer entered the store, and the

How would you have handled situations like these? Discuss scenarios and more online in the usconcealedcarry.com forums. Familiarize yourself with your local and state laws regarding self-defense. NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 7 STREET TACTICS

Since most of these events are likely to happen after dark, the ability to integrate a light into the fight may be an important skill.

a study of fighting in your house

Fighting in houses—or fighting in your house—can take on many forms depending on your mission. aving clarity of mission is classic scenario where a homeowner is is little need for any skills at all other essential so you know how to awakened by a strange sound indicating than pointing the weapon and having Hcomport yourself in each event. a break in. They barricade themselves the will to fire it at the home invader. I want to be very clear that this is one in the bedroom with the old double The homeowner does, however, need to of the most dangerous activities that a barreled shotgun, issue the classic have a weapon in the first place. homeowner may encounter. warning, “I have a gun” and then call While many CCW folks advise this as Sadly, most training out there is the police. We hear stories like this all what you always need to do, it is a very limited to the police application, which the time. limited application. Will you do this if I call “hunt the burglar.” This has very The homeowner has no pressing the rest of your family is still out there little in common with much of what need to enter the fight or go in search at the mercy of the home invader? Of you may need to do as the occupant of of the threat, so he simply takes up a course not. a home, rather than as a police officer position of advantage, using as much who is responding to an emergency cover and concealment as a bedroom Taking ground call. will allow. He points his muzzle at the This is a bit more involved and far more Basing our focus on the armed civilian bedroom door chanelizing the avenue physically and mentally demanding. CCW operator we can identify several of approach of the bad guy, and waits This basically involves attacking the possible mission profiles and tactical in ambush. When the bad guy forces his attackers. An example may be, as we skills needed for fighting in houses. way into the bedroom, a “warning” may mentioned earlier, the rescue of family or may not be given depending on the members about to be victimized. The Holding ground tactical situation and the region of the police parallel is a hostage rescue. This is the most common type of country in which the home is situated. Think of the previous scenario except home defense situation. Think of the For this very elementary event there the homeowner is awakened by the 8 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 below: Learning to fight in a house is a mental exercise more than a physical one. However, a good shoothouse type structure can provide hours of great training.

right: Skills should be learned as individuals and then augmented with a partner. a study of [ BY Gabe suarez ] fighting in your house

sound of glass breaking, their child’s run away. And before you discount where there are multiple shooters, but terrified screams in a bedroom across this, there are plenty of reasons to do their immediate whereabouts are not the house are suddenly muffled, and just that if family members or others certain. All you know is that the current they hear a stranger’s voice telling the for whom you are responsible are still place is not safe and that remaining child to shut up. This is hardly the time in the danger area. You are not going to there is not a good idea. You need to to hide under the bed with a shotgun, abandon your kids at Trolley Square or escape, but running into one or more is it? the Tacoma Mall and run for your life, of them on the way out is a very real This situation requires moving are you? possibility. There is no time to clear rapidly and stealthily, directly to the or search. You move quickly as before, threat. The mission is not to stay safe, Traversing through giving cursory attention to danger areas it is to go to the fight. The mission is to Traversing involves traveling through with eyes and muzzles on the approach close on the bad guys and shoot them a contested or conflict area where and egress, but no attempt would be to the ground with surgical close range there may be active armed bad guys. made to “clear them” or search them. gunfire. The urgency of the situation The mission is not to engage them, but As soon as a danger area is passed, it is probably proscribes any negotiation, rather to escape them. But understand, abandoned as new danger areas appear. warnings, or attempts to deescalate getting shot in the back is no way to The goal is to escape—but in a strong the situation. The bad guys are located, escape. The operator(s) and their and controlled manner ready to convert closed upon, and shot down in order to protectees move rapidly through and escape into attack if necessary. save the innocents they are victimizing. out, free of the threat area, but ready to A similar situation is presented in an engage any threats that may appear or Search and clear active shooter event where you have impede their exit. This is an area of study that is often elected to stay and fight rather than Think of the active shooter event the basis of many “shoothouse” training NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 9 events. It involves moving cautiously understanding of what your mission is • You are at church and your kids are and deliberately through an area in at any given moment as well as the fact on the other side of the church at direct search for an adversary who, that things can change quickly from youth ministry. You hear gunshots presumably, is hidden or unaware of one mission profile to another. coming from that direction, people the good guy’s presence. It is basically A lot of the choices you make will screaming and running away from an indoor manhunt. depend on how much information you the sound. Most people have no idea how stren- have. This is not the time to be thinking • You and your protectees are inside a uous this is both physically and mental- about liability and stuff like that. If you building where bad things are hap- ly, nor how dangerous it is when done do, you’ll lose. pening. Your current location is un- alone. A typical 3000 square foot house tenable and you must leave, but ex- might take the better part of an hour Consider these situations pect to encounter resistance as part to search correctly by a team of three. • You wake up at 3 AM because you of the escape. And by search I mean doing it right, not heard something. You are not certain While each event is similar, the dy- simply turning the lights on and peek- enough to go back to sleep, but not namics of the fight are different and ing into a room and then declaring it is certain enough to call 911. each one requires different tactics. Now clear. • The noise that wakes you up is much think about this and how you might All of these require a thorough under- more pronounced than in the pre- handle each one of these problems. standing of the nature of architectural vious situation. Still not confirmed Think also about what skills you might features commonly found in modern “human” but definitely something is need to make your time in the fight saf- buildings such as corners, hallways, not right. er for you and more dangerous for the doors, stairs, and so on, and a solid • You wake up to the sound of glass bad guys. n knowledge of how to negotiate them at breaking, followed by swearing. You various speeds. You would also need the live alone. To Contact Gabe Suarez: ability to identify danger areas and po- • You wake up at 3 AM because you www.suarezinternational.com tential threats, and the ability to mold heard your kid scream across the www.onesourcetactical.com your fighting platform to the environ- house. Their scream was followed by www.warriortalk.com ment at hand. As well, you need a clear a male voice telling them to shut up. Office 928-776-4492

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how to be a good student [ BY GEORGE HARRIS ]

ou have come to the realization is not all-encompassing, but is drawn the best class to meet your needs. Any that you are not as good as you from my many years as a student and reputable training organization will Ywant to be, so a training class to a professional in the field of firearms state the specifics of what you will ex- elevate your performance level is on training and education. perience when attending their classes. the horizon. After an intensive search of Since the focus of this publication Don’t read more or less into the descrip- the many training institutions available is primarily related to concealed carry tion. When you are not totally clear as to aid in your improvement, you have issues, I will restrict my comments to to what you will receive, e-mail or call selected one that seems to meet your that line of training. That said, however, to clarify the question. Pay close atten- needs and promises to help you excel to most of my suggestions can be directly tion to the equipment list in the course the next level of proficiency. You enroll description as well. It is there for a rea- and wait with eager anticipation until Nothing is worse than son. Nothing is worse than arriving at a the first day of training comes. arriving at a training training event only to find out that you When you arrive at the training site, are not equipped or prepared to partici- you find that the class is being held at event only to find pate in the course. another location. By the time you get out that you are not The title Concealed Carry Course has directions and travel to the correct loca- more meanings than a centipede has tion, the class has started without you. equipped or prepared to legs. They range from four hours to Once you get settled in and oriented to participate in the course. four days and longer. There is no way the class, you start to realize that the that you can get the same information course you are attending isn’t what you applied to most any class that you might and practical range time in a four hour thought it was going to be. want to attend. class that you would get in a multiple What started out to be an exciting, As a student, you have to estab- day class. If you want to qualify for your performance-enhancing training ses- lish some objectives that you want to state’s concealed carry permit, make sion is now a big disappointment. You achieve before doing anything else. An sure that the course you select states can blame the school or the instructor, objective, simply put, is what you will specifically that it meets the standard but more often than not you can look in know and be able to do upon comple- required to obtain the desired certifi- the mirror to find the correct place to tion of the class. Once the objectives are cation. Don’t be fooled by high round lay the blame for your disappointment. on paper (write them down) the search counts, free gifts, or other gimmicks to In the next few paragraphs I will list begins for who can best meet those ob- get your business. Read the course de- some guidelines as to how a student jectives. scription to understand what you are can get the most out of a training ex- Carefully read the course description getting for the tuition fee. perience. What you are about to read from each provider as you search for Prior to making travel arrangements,

About the Author: George Harris has spent over 30 years has evolved from an infantry soldier, committed to the safe and successful in the field of adult education with small arms repair technician, and use of firearms by armed professionals more than 17 years drill instructor to become the coach and responsible citizens alike through at the SIG SAUER® and firing member of the internation- using the SIG Principle of Training: Academy. He has ally recognized United States Army Simple Is Good! focused his efforts Reserve Combat Marksmanship Team. Sponsored By: in the arenas of As a competitive shooter, George small arms, small has the coveted distinction of being arms training and Distinguished with both the service combat skill de- pistol and the service rifle. As director velopment. George of the SIG SAUER® Academy, George is sigsauer.com 603-679-2003

12 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 verify the location of the class. The Sig be devoted to soaking up all that you You came to learn, not to criticize. If Sauer Academy is located five miles can see, hear, and feel. Outside of safety you aren’t getting the material stated in west of the Sig Sauer Factory. It is a reg- (which should never be compromised), the course description, don’t wait until ular occurrence for Academy students even if you disagree with the way things the end of the class to ask about what to show up at the Factory to take a class are being taught, give it a try anyway. If you think is missing. Make sure that because they assumed that the Factory nothing else, you will know that meth- your questions are relevant to the class and the Academy are one and the same. when you ask them but don’t leave with Five miles is no big deal when you con- questions unanswered. sider that a few of the firearms manu- Don’t be fooled by high Get to know the other students dur- facturers have their training facilities in round counts, free gifts, ing the class. You can never have too completely different states, some over many friends, particularly those that five hundred miles away. or other gimmicks to have a common interest with you. Get Finally the day comes and you are get your business. Read a class roster at the end of the class in- seated and ready to learn new tech- cluding contact information if possible. niques and information to upgrade the course description Learning can continue after the class is your skill level. Your mindset is all im- to understand what over by maintaining contact with other portant as to how much you will gain in students. the class. As the old saying goes, “The you are getting for the Finally, ask what class should be next mind is like a parachute; it is of little tuition fee. for you in the ongoing process of self use unless it is open.” Listen to what improvement. Factor the answer into the instructor says and try the tech- od doesn’t work for you today but it will your personal objectives and start the niques recommended rather than re- be in your memory banks for future use process again by taking a close look at fusing to try something new because should circumstances change for you. the course description. it takes you out of your comfort zone. Observe the class as a whole. It is There is always something around us Clarify any questions that you might amazing what you can learn from other to be learned on a perpetual basis. You have at the appropriate time but other students both good and not so good. can maximize your options by learning than that, your total attention should Through the whole class, be positive. how to be a good student. n

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 13 THE ORDINARY GUY “He kicked in the door and took about two to three steps and shot me in the neck while I slept.”

Bloodstain marks the spot where home invader David Brown fell at the hands of Jim Butler.

“On a Cold February Night It All Came To an End” “I agree 100% having been through a stalking situation ourselves; my wife and I learned some very valuable lessons.” [ BY MARK WALTERS ]

e sought and received a full interview with Mr. Butler sent chills up the night that it started. That was in order of protection from my back. The Butlers’ account of terror February of 2003.” “Wthe courts. In my opin- is something no human beings should The neighbor was 44 year old David ion, the paper was completely useless. have to go through. Jim and his wife, Brown. Jim told me, “He lived in a trailer Our attacker violated this order nu- Suzanne, have allowed me to pass their on his sister’s property about a half a merous times and yet the local Sheriff story on to you. Read it carefully and mile from us. He didn’t have any elec- Department couldn’t find this freak. He more importantly, learn from it. tricity or running water and lived kind lived about a half mile from our house of like a hermit. We took a little bit of and despite my seeing him twice a day February, 2003: pity on him because he obviously didn’t and doing as the Phelps County Sheriff the nightmare begins have any money or anything. We offered Department suggested. (do not ap- “We started having problems with a him small odd jobs around our place, proach/confront...let us do our jobs.) He neighbor. My wife didn’t notify me at cutting grass, feeding our horses when never was apprehended. He continued to first. She caught him peeking in win- we were out of town, things like that.” stalk, peek in our windows and threaten dows and she didn’t want me to have After being spotted by deputies that us. Each time we reported....same re- too bad a reaction to that, I suppose,” evening while Jim was in California, sult...nothing! After pleading with law Jim told me as our discussion began. David Brown barricaded himself in enforcement to do something...anything, “When I first became aware of what his trailer. This resulted in a SWAT re- on a cold February night it all came to was happening, I was on a business trip sponse from local authorities. During an end!” in California when I got a phone call the standoff Brown armed himself, The above post appeared in the around 2 am. My wife had caught him threatened deputies, and refused to USCCA discussion forum on 8/20/2008. peeking in a window again and called exit his residence alive. After nearly two The thread was titled: “What do you do the Phelps County Sheriff. They didn’t hours, a county sheriff hostage negotia- about a stalker?” I placed a call to the see him at first and when they came tor persuaded him to come out without writer, USCCA member Jim Butler. My back they were able to spot him. That’s violence. He was taken for psychiatric 14 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 The victims, Jim and Suzanne Butler.

“On a Cold February Night It All Came To an End” evaluation and found to be mentally fit. than the little stuff like that. I suspect the ten months following the February Brown was later charged with first de- he gained access by the garage door incident, but still no arrest. The couple gree trespassing and resisting arrest. opener. He must have had the code and lived in a constant state of alert when Little did the Butlers know what had I have no idea how many times he may home, cautiously waiting and listening, really begun for them on that February have entered the house.” and remaining armed at all times both night in 2003. Throughout the spring and summer inside and outside. Jim and his wife be- and into the fall, the harassment of the gan spending more time training with Summer of harassment Butlers became regular and frequent. their firearms. Both purchased new As the harassment began after Jim Each time it happened, the Butlers guns: Jim a Glock 21, and Suzanne a returned home from California, the made a report to law enforcement. Glock 19. Having grown up in St. Louis, Butlers’ lives were never “normal” again. Jim told me that the county sheriff was Suzanne was not familiar with firearms, “We’re doing everything we can legally, called to his property at least every two but she now spent a significant amount to keep him away from the house,” Jim to three weeks to make another report of time training with her husband. Jim said. Suzanne applied for a protective about Brown’s activities. told me that part of this was by design, injunction within 24 hours of the first The Butlers would hear loud cars pass so that the neighbors would hear the incident, which the courts granted im- by with the occupants shouting ob- gunfire coming from the Butler prop- mediately. scenities, as well as occasional gunfire erty as a form of deterrence. It didn’t “Occurrences of him coming around, from passing vehicles. Their frustration work. though, did not stop. In fact I confront- levels rose as they spent many months On Christmas Eve, 2003, Jim was ed him one time in front of the house,” trying to get this man arrested while it heading towards the house when Jim told me. “Apparently he was coming seemed as if nothing was being done by Suzanne called. She had beaten him into the house when we weren’t there, local law enforcement to prevent David home by just a few minutes. As she ex- and he would take a handful of change, Brown from repeatedly violating the in- ited her vehicle she noticed flashlight grab a couple of beers out of the re- junctions against him. beams inside the house. A moment lat- frigerator,” Jim said. “He would never er, she was confronted by David Brown take anything like a stereo or TV and I Merry Christmas as he exited her home. A scuffle ensued really had no proof he was there other There were repeated violations during and Suzanne was injured. Brown es- NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 15 left: Jim Butler regularly trains on his property, as does his wife Suzanne.

below: Entrance to the bedroom used by home invader David Brown to gain access to the Butlers as they slept.

caped into the darkness. Phelps County one, but this has to stop. I’m worried for steps and shot me in the neck while I Sheriff’s officers responded in conjunc- my safety. I don’t know if someone is go- slept.” tion with the Missouri State Highway ing to take a shot at me from the woods The bullet wound to Jim’s neck grazed Patrol, and charges were drafted against or someplace.” Jim was informed that near his artery but didn’t sever it. Jim Brown. The home was dusted for prints, he had the right to defend himself in his told me, “As I sat up then he shot me and the Butlers gave statements. Brown home and “all that nonsense.” with a rifle in the chest.” Jim rolled to- was not apprehended that evening, but “Now I start seeing him (David Brown) ward the nightstand to grab his gun now had four warrants for his arrest. again and each time I see him I call and while Suzanne, unaware of whether her Angered and enraged by the apparent report him,” Jim said, “yet he was still husband was alive or dead, in an act ability of David Brown to elude capture, never picked up.” of total heroism sprung forward and and frustrated by what appeared to be It’s now February 4, one full year from grabbed the rifle barrel from the mad- a lack of effort by the sheriff’s depart- the initial encounter. Upon arriving man standing at the foot of her bed. ment, the Butlers were prepared to home from work, Jim and Suzanne see She was subsequently shot in the hand handle Brown themselves if necessary. what appears to be a large party at David and in the wrist, with the shot to her The authorities would later determine Brown’s sister’s house. Arming them- wrist exiting near her elbow. “Despite that David Brown’s sister had been us- selves, they watch intently throughout being shot twice, she doesn’t let go of ing a police scanner to warn her brother the evening, but the Butlers have no the rifle. She doesn’t know my condi- of attempts to find him. idea what is about to happen. tion, and they are struggling over the Jim later told me, “It’s a very bitter, gun. I began screaming and fired four February, 2004 - the end cold night. It gets to be about 11 o’clock. times above them to get them to sepa- David Brown seemingly disappeared I said, ‘Honey, I don’t think anything rate. As soon as I got enough separation for a while. “He knew he was in trouble is going to happen. I’m going to bed.’” and I could shoot, I did. I unloaded the now,” Jim said. “His court dates were Jim went to bed and fell asleep while rest of the magazine at him.” Jim recalls, coming up and we didn’t see him for a Suzanne worked in the kitchen on the “I emptied the first magazine, reloaded while. As my frustration grew, I made computer. He continues, “I was asleep and fired two more shots.” repeated trips to the sheriff’s depart- and Suzanne had just came to bed. He David Brown hit the floor and died ment to tell the captain that this had [Brown] was obviously watching for within seconds. to stop, that this was going somewhere that moment we both went to bed so he “HE SHOT ME, HE SHOT ME,” I don’t want it to go. I don’t want to get could catch us both in bed. He kicked Suzanne was screaming. Jim then sprang hurt, I definitely don’t want to hurt any- in the door and took about two to three from the bed to his wife. “Honestly, I 16 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 didn’t even know I was shot. I can’t re- down when he heard someone come up In addition to the Ruger 10-22 rifle ally describe it. I wasn’t sure if he was to him from behind. with which he shot the Butlers, Brown going to spring up so I kept going back “Drop the weapon!” commanded the was carrying 75 rounds of ammunition to make sure he was still down. I don’t first responding officer. Jim refused out in his pockets, a .22 handgun, and a fan- know how many times I went back to of fear and shock, but eventually he set ny pack which contained latex gloves the room to check on him, maybe three the gun down. The officer never drew and additional ammunition. Police or four times. I go into the rest of the his weapon on Jim. “At this point you would later surmise that he intended house and turn on all the lights.” don’t know who’s on your side,” Jim said to murder the Butlers and then commit After the gunfight Suzanne left the later. suicide. room immediately to call 911. As the house filled with emergency Jim and Suzanne Butler stayed with Emergency 911: “Emergency 911.” personnel and law enforcement, the relatives for the next month, going home Suzanne Butler: “I’ve been shot!” dead man’s sister, Jane Helgersen, made daily to retrieve the mail and check on Emergency 911: “You’ve been shot?” an attempt to rush into the home. She the property. They have since moved Suzanne Butler: “Yes, me and my hus- was immediately tackled by authorities back into their home with a certain feel- band!” and charged with hindering prosecu- ing of cautious relief as the stalker and Emergency 911: “How many people tion and resisting arrest. home invader’s family still reside down have been shot?” The Butlers were taken to Phelps the street. Other than some hard stares Jim Butler: “My wife, myself and him, County Regional Medical Center and and occasional horn blaring, the couple he’s laying on the floor!” released within 24 hours. In addition to has been free of harassment. n Emergency 911: “Where is she hit?” the two gunshot wounds he received, Jim Butler: “She is hit in the arm!” Jim also suffered a broken ankle during [ Mark Walters is a NRA Certified Emergency 911: “What about the guy the gunfight. The bullet fired into his Instructor in three disciplines, a member lying on the floor?” chest resides there to this day. of NSSF and a vocal Second Amendment Jim Butler: “I think he’s dead!” David W. Brown received four shots to activist. He is a member of GeorgiaCarry. The couple, now hysterical, waited the upper body including right shoulder, org and encourages readers to write him for authorities to arrive. Not knowing upper chest, right chest, and right lower at [email protected] ] who may show up from the party down chest. According to the autopsy report, the street, Jim refused to put his gun all four shots produced mortal wounds.

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Russ with his daughters.

RUSS Curiosity Killed the Cat­—or did it? WHITE hey say that curiosity killed the spent our weekends on Boy Scout networks, and when I left the Air Force, cat. Of course, the part we tend to campouts or at my grandfather’s house I took a job at a small system integrator. Tforget is that satisfaction brought in Winder where he was a County Agent I switched jobs two other times in three him back. Curiosity is pretty much for the U.S. Forestry Service, or at Lake years, married, and moved to North the story of my life. I’ve studied and Hartwell, camping, swimming, and Carolina, where I started working for worked in a wide variety of fields, from sailing around the lake in our canoe or Cisco Systems. illustration and web page design to twenty-foot boat. I attended two years Currently, I work as an Internetwork repairing radar systems. of college, first majoring in art, then Engineer in the Routing Deployment I was born in Atlanta and grew up in music. Later I joined the U.S. Air Force, and Architecture Team at Research Morrow, Georgia. I can still remember where I worked as an electronic engineer Triangle Park, North Carolina. My job is the first traffic signal ever installed on meteorological and navigational as varied as my background, with a lot of in Morrow, at the end of my street, aids equipment. I worked in this field different aspects: designing and building to provide a crossing point for the for seven years, then moved into the web sites; writing articles, books, and elementary school. I split my time Small Computer Support Center at Internet standards; and working on the between school, the outdoors, and McGuire Air Force Base, and finally into design and implementation of some amateur radio, earning a Novice class Tech Control. This led to an interest of the world’s largest networks. My job license at 11 years old (WB4YRV). We in computers, specifically computer today takes me into the cutting edge of 18 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 “A crisis is not the time to be above: Russ shoots a breaking stage during an action shoot at the Holly in a carry Springs Range. routine.” below: Russ’ current carry handgun, a RUSS WHITE Caspian Arms .38 Super. the networking industry. I’ve co-authored six books and I am currently working on another one. I’ve edited several more, and have had several articles published in industry magazines including Business Communications Review, the Internet Protocol Journal, and Packet. My job takes me around the world. That might sound glamorous to someone who doesn’t travel a lot, but the reality is far different. Almost all airports and hotels look the same af- ter the first 25 or 30 that you’ve been in. I spend as much time as possible at home, pursuing my still widely divergent interests including Bible study, shooting, reloading, gunsmithing, and general house work (electrical, plumbing, and carpentry). My wife and I enjoy frequent trips to one of two lakes, spending time with our two NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 19 left: Russ shoots through a barrel during an action shoot at the Holly Springs Range.

below: Russ’ older daughter, Bekah, enjoys a day at the range with her dad.

daughters out on the lake and in the ago. The hurricane that came through Have you ever had to use your firearm pool, around the water, the same way I Raleigh a few years ago spurred me to in a defensive situation? grew up. get my concealed carry permit, and No. I’ve always believed that if you have a Was there a specific incident that permit, you should carry as much as What training methods do you employ? caused you to carry a gun? possible. The first time you carry, you Do you have any recommendations? Many little incidents in the past, feel very conspicuous. It’s better to I attend occasional classes, the most including a near mugging many years practice as much as possible. recent being from Yavapai Firearms

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20 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 Academy with Louis Awerbuck. Beyond What weapons do you carry? Do you have any advice for our this, I practice at least once every two A four inch [barrel] Caspian .38 Super readers? weeks. I generally run myself through that I put together. My wife also carries Practice, practice, and practice some several drills, including double taps on a custom built Caspian .38 Super which more. Practice shooting and practice multiple targets, boarding house rules is almost identical to mine. The “house carrying. You won’t feel comfortable on multiple targets, at least one draw gun,” which stays locked in a GunVault, is about carrying a concealed weapon and one reloadTATTOO every PARLOR ten rounds. OWNER I shoot a Kimbershop on Pro Campbellton Carry that RoadI’ve customized when two untilThe you man do ranit a out, lot, firingand youback get over used his to at least 100 roundsSHOOTS of .38 ROBBER Super through inmen various came ways. in about I’m working 8 p.m. on asking a third to shoulderhow it feels as he and made how his people escape react through to it. A my ATLANTA, carry gun GEORGIA every two — weeks, The shotgun and I fourget inchtattooed. Caspian .38 Super with a light thecrisis parking is not lot. the time to be breaking in a shoothangs at least on the 100 wall rounds of the ofTattoo other Doctor things for rail toAs replace one of thisthem one,was calledat some in forpoint, his carry“The routine. whole neighborhood n must have appointment, the second man pulled out called police. There were so many shots everya reason,two weeks its employees as well, including say. It’s meant some to so the Kimber will become the backup. convey a message to anyone walking in: a gun, ordered everyone to get down fired,” Patrick said. bullseyeDon’t messstyle withat 50 us. yards with a Kimber Myon alternate the ground backup and is demanded a Walther money,PPK/S, Contacts:The store is in a shopping center Super Match,Until now, 100 the yard insinuation rifle work, worked and andPatrick I also said. have a Beretta Tomcat in .32 that houses, among other businesses, a a goodfine. bit But of when .22 through a would-be a Ruger robber Mark tried ACP, if“He things pointed get really to the sticky! [shotgun] and barberCaspian shop Arms and a pizza place. III orto one hold of up the the single southwest action Atlanta revolvers. tattoo said nobody touch it,” Patrick said. “We www.caspianarms.coAs the shots flew, m the second man Structuredand piercing variety parlor seems Thursday to be night,the key he Whatput it up type there of to ammunitioncurtail exactly this do type you cowered in a corner, saying, “Please for me.learned the hard way what happens carry?of behavior.” don’tGeorgia kill me.Ammunition I didn’t have nothing to do when you disobey. As the patrons hit the ground, the with it,” Patrick recalled. I shoot at least one competition a Generally, Georgia Ammunition www.georgia-arms.com The store owner shot the man at least store owner—whose business license lists Atlanta police Officer Eric Schwartz monththree because times, sending I think him working scurrying under out of .38him Super as Ikeno in 130 Patrick, gr. butGold who Dot, goes and by I said the would-be robber, whose name the the clock, shop with and into multiple a nearby targets apartment and occasionally“Nomadic”—pulled alternate out with a different Cor-Bon. gun wasGunVault not released, was arrested and taken movementcomplex—where mixed in, is he really was useful. promptly and fired. towww.gunvault.co a hospital in stablem condition. arrested. What “Zok” concealment Patrick says holsters his do brother you “Nomadic” Patrick was taken to How long“Stop have trying you carried to rob, a that’s concealed not the use?returned fire only after the would-be aWild police Bill’s station Concealment to give hisHolsters version of weapon?avenue they need to take,” said the robberA variation fired on some Wild shotsBill’s Concealment of his own. events.www.wildbillsconcealment.co The other employees spentm late owner’s brother, who goes by the name Police had not sorted through the Thursday night picking up glass shards I carry at least three times a week, Covert Carry, with a belt loop instead “Zok” Patrick. “But if you do,” he added, details of the attempted robbery by late and sweeping out the debris. unless“be I’mready traveling. for the repercussions.” I’ve been carrying ofThursday a clip, and night. hard “From finish what rather I seen, than Yavapai FirearmsAtlanta Academy Journal-Constitution for at leastAbout five sevenyears now. people, including suede.[my brother] hit him on the mouth, the www.yfainc.com August 16, 2007 patrons and employees, were at the shoulder, the side,” Patrick said.

10 Concealed Carry Magazine www.usconcealedcarry.com Volume 4 - October 2007 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 21 My Journey Into Reloading [ BY duane daiker ]

I have always wanted to reload my own ammo. riginally I wanted to do it for set of dies in the appropriate caliber. After a series of setbacks, I have yet all the usual reasons, including While at some point I would like to work to assemble my first completed round. Osaving money and tailoring my up to a more sophisticated progressive It didn’t help that I seem to have mis- own loads. But lately my motivation press, the Lee Breech Lock Challenger placed a critical part of my press. Not has changed a little. Now I want to learn Press in the Anniversary Kit is a great sure how that happened, but I bet I find reloading just for the sake of knowing place to start. it with all my mismatched socks that how. I want to learn everything I can Next, I went shopping for the com- somehow escaped the dryer. about firearms and how they operate, ponents. Although there are great deals and learning to reload is the next logical available online if you buy in bulk, I My journey continues step. The problem is that I am not the opted to visit a local reloading supply This series of setbacks made it im- most mechanically inclined guy around. house. I was happy to support a local possible to load my first rounds before I don’t own a lot of tools. Those I do own business, and even happier to get some this article went to print. Also, I figured reside mostly in my shooting kit. I can much needed expert advice. Buying out that the story of this journey is go- field strip my guns, especially if I follow local also saves you on shipping and ing to take a lot more space than I re- the instructions in the owner’s manual, hazmat charges. I decided to start with alized. So, we have decided to continue but I don’t work on my own car. So, be- .38 Special, and bought all the neces- this saga online. The rest of this story, fore I set off on this adventure, I had to sary components: some jacketed hol- as it develops, will be covered in the My ask myself, “Can I really do this?” lowpoint bullets, empty brass, gunpow- Journey Into Reloading blog at www. der, and primers. USConcealedCarry.com/reloading/ First Steps journey.html. I hope you enjoy the rest I started out with the basics. First, I Time to start loading? of my account. Ultimately, I hope to an- read what I could find on the Internet. Well…not exactly. I spent another day swer the question: Is reloading really for There are lots of websites on reload- still trying to get ready. First, the press anyone? Come follow my journey into ing. Then I bought a reloading manual wouldn’t mount easily to my bench. It reloading and find out! n and read though the reloading process. wasn’t the fault of the press, my bench I got the basic terminology down. So didn’t have a proper overhang. Back to [ Duane A. Daiker writes extensively far, so good. Then I made some calls to the drawing board! on equipment, training, and concealed gather together the equipment. My first It’s also worth noting that actually as- carry issues from a civilian perspec- call was to Lee Precision. I chose Lee sembling all the necessary equipment is tive. He has been writing for CCM since because they have a wide selection of not a piece of cake for someone like me. its first issue, and writes regularly for equipment and their prices are reason- My first read through the instruction Shooting Illustrated. Duane has been a able. I selected the Lee 50th Anniversary manuals left me looking for the English lifelong shooter and goes about his life Kit. This kit features a simple single version. Little did I know it actually was as an armed, responsible, and somewhat stage press and all the components you in English! Again, this is not a knock on opinionated citizen. Duane can be con- need, and then some! At the time of Lee, just an indication that reloading re- tacted at Daiker@RealWorldCarryGear. writing, this kit retails for only $128, and quires either some level of mechanical com, and welcomes your comments and includes everything you need except a ability or a healthy dose of patience. suggestions for gear reviews. ] 22 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 Complete 2009 Schedule Available Online!

www.suarezinternational.com Reloaded ammunition allows more than twice as much trigger time over factory loads. When compared to high grade defensive loads, reloaded ammunition allows more than three times the practice.

[ BY christopher pilon ]

Recycle Your Brass: Reloading for the Best Use of Time, Money, and Practice With the price of ammunition skyrocketing, reloading makes more sense than ever to help stretch your ammo budget. hen combined with the op- portunity to practice form and Wtechnique with consistent, low to medium power loads, reloading be- comes an asset to your practice regi- men. But when it comes to making am- munition for your daily carry weapon, maybe there are better alternatives.

A little history Several years ago on my birthday, my wife surprised me with a trip to the local sporting goods store to pick up a Smith & Wesson Model 629 .44 Magnum that I’d been eyeing. I had them throw in a box of cheap, plinking ammo with the pur- chase, and proceeded out to the range. On the firing line, I was shocked first by the price on the ammo box, next by the Despite a successful heavy recoil of these supposed plinkers, handloading history, and finally by how good I looked with, the author doesn’t trust as one movie hero called it, “the world’s anything but high most powerful handgun.” After a half a grade ammunition for box, my hand hurt enough to make me this carry rig. 24 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 Getting started with reloading is easy with a single stage press. Most kits come with the requisite tools. The digital scale in the background is a great add-on for doing extremely precise measurements for precision loads.

Reloading for the Best Use of Time, Money, and Practice

think about shooting .44 Special rounds try to get to the pistol range for 90 min- I am curing my extended shoot flinch. instead. A quick price check on these utes or so at least once a month. One For me, there is very little brand loy- showed that they were more expensive of the drills that my instructors invari- alty for training ammunition. I used to than their harder-kicking counterparts. ably include is also one that I always do buy whatever was on sale regardless I suppose that is why the ones I bought at the range: misfires. Practicing the of brand, bullet, or weight. Although it were sold as cheap plinkers. automatic response of gross muscle all went bang, there were subtle differ- I started reloading because of the rel- movements to complete the TAP-RACK ences in the recoil from one brand to ative speed with which I could recover is one thing, but watching for a flinch is another, and major differences in recoil the initial investment given the cost of probably the most valuable take away. I when moving among bullet weights. commercial .44 Magnum/Special am- never flinch when I am doing dry fires By purchasing my bullets, powder, and munition. I fell in love with reloading because I know that there will be no re- primers in bulk, I know that the next when I found that I could manufacture coil. I decided that if I could develop a 5000 training rounds will be almost cartridges that were cheap and truly soft soft shooting .40 S&W load that grouped identical and cost significantly less than shooting, yet still made me look good well, I could effectively work on shooting if I bought five cases of factory loads. with the former heavyweight champion technique and form without the inevita- Practice makes perfect. “Practice un- of handguns. I became a reloading ad- ble flinch that comes with a 400-round til you can’t get it wrong” is what my vocate when I found how easy it is to workout. After a bit of trial and error, instructors drill into our heads at the make extremely accurate, top-grade I found my load of choice. According monthly clinics. The method behind hunting and match ammunition for the to some load manuals, it’s barely on the madness is to instill so much mus- .44 Magnum and my various rifles. the charts as acceptable. At an IDPA cle memory that you cannot help but match, it would be ridiculed. Against do things a certain way. What’s wrong Practice makes perfect heavy steel spinners, it’s almost comi- with using ammunition that helps you I work with my carry weapon a lot. I cal. But my handloads cycle every time reinforce the basics? In a gunfight, I’m attend monthly shooting clinics and I and thanks to the soft recoiling rounds, going to have one shot to get it right and NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 25 Developing factory knockoffs With a wide variety of components available, it is very easy to develop homeloads for use on the range that duplicate the ballistics of commer- cial ammunition. If you want to shoot the hard-hitting jacketed stuff, it still cheaper to reload: about 65 cents on the dollar when using purchased once-fired brass, and much less if you can use your brass a few times. I have a few loads that my Sig loves and that do very well for competitive shooting. They sport great velocities with reduced pressures to minimize recovery times and still pack the necessary punch to authoritatively flop a steel target to the other side of the Reloading is relatively simple with only four components. dueling tree. For me, factory ammo has two things I want my brain to be thinking about processes. A malfunction in a gunfight going for it. First, it does not nullify soft shooting putt-putt rounds when means I shoot second in a contest where my handgun’s warranty. But given the my carry ammo is commercial, tactical the first bullet can often be the last. amount that I shoot, and the amount grade, bonded core hollowpoints. Probably more important is public that I have saved, reloading my practice perception. My concealed carry instruc- ammo allows me to buy a replacement Loading for carry? tor told us the best firearm for a bed- pistol any time. Second, it uses new You read right. When I belt up my Sig room is a shotgun loaded with magnum brass. There are some structural consid- P226, it’s always loaded with commer- goose shells. It is commonplace; it is for erations in play here, but since I don’t cial ammo. When I carry the .44 Mag hunting; it happened to be available reload .40 S&W past three firings, these into the woods, it carries some extra when the bad guy broke into the house. considerations mean very little to me. special homeloads that will have no Compare this to the guy who keeps his For me, it comes down to the fact that problem dropping a deer in its tracks at factory ammo comes in shinier brass. one hundred yards. Why the difference? While my loading techniques are good I reload as a hobby and Getting started and have proven to be one hundred I do it primarily for Reloading is a pretty easy thing to start percent effective (knock on wood) there up with nominal costs. Used equipment are a couple of factors that make hand- the cost effectiveness of is readily available in internet auctions. loads a less than perfect alternative for shooting true training Here are a few considerations to mull carry weapons. There is an old adage over if you haven’t already started down that critical activities are no place for ammo. this addictive road: on the job training. Gunfights have no Match your loads to your handgun. margin for error, and the click of the fir- trusty AR-15 loaded with 30 rounds of Some pistol barrels do not fully support ing pin slapping an improperly seated M855/SS109 Steel Penetrators–he’ll be the case head and present the potential primer is probably the last thing I would hung out to dry by the anti-gun me- for explosions for improperly loaded get to hear in this lifetime. I reload as a dia as a crazy man waiting for the op- ammunition. Some pistol barrels use hobby and I do it primarily for the cost portunity to legally kill. Lord willing, I polygonal rifling that does not work effectiveness of shooting true training will never be in the news for a defen- well with lead slugs. Both of these can ammo. I could easily work up some sive shooting. But why give the media be overcome with an aftermarket bar- high-powered hollowpoints that more the opportunity to paint you with the rel. than exceed commercial manufactur- stigma of being a weapons freak who Find a buddy. This might be a friend, ing performance and are well within the believed that commercial ammunition fellow shooter, or the local reloading bounds of SAAMI specs, but for those simply wasn’t deadly enough? [Ed. Not supplies shop owner. It’s important critical moments I would rather rely to mention what a prosecuting attorney to have someone with reloading on professionals. On the pistol range, a would make of your reloads if your case experience to serve as a sounding board malfunction presents an opportunity to goes to court. It is wise to use only good for ideas that you want to work up. If practice TAP-RACK and review the bul- quality commercial ammunition for self nothing else, get online and use the let for improvements to my reloading defense.] many reloading sections in firearms 26 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 related internet bulletin boards. Check Better by Design out the new handloading and reloading area in the USCCA discussion forums at www.USConcealedCarry.com. Lots of J-Max Developed for Law people are willing to help a newcomer Enforcement SIDE MOUNT LASER and Professional get started. FOR S&W J-FRAME REVOLVERS Security Use Don’t be macho. Almost every long time reloader has pet loads that are probably a little hotter than they should be. It’s easy to think that more is better, but one bad load can really ruin your day. I have a personal rule to stay within the specs provided by at least one book, hopefully two, and I never load to full power. Every reloader should know their boundaries; these are my self-imposed • Laser mounted high, restrictions designed to make sure that beam close to bore line, I avoid a kaBoom. away from index finger. Read the Manual. But don’t stop • Sharp price point! there, get another and read it too. Then read them both again. Understanding • Light weight, rugged – what goes on when the gun goes bang is and ambidextrous. essential to staying safe.

Start off slow. The idea of cranking MADE IN USA out 600 rounds per hour sounds great, but the dirty little secret is that load development is a process of small www.lasermax.com 1.800.527.3703 BY AMERICANS batches and small changes. Start with a single stage press and learn to walk before you run. If you load for precision, individual operations at each stage are critical. You can write to thank me later when you pull out that old single-stage press that you learned to reload on, and realize that all things have a definite purpose. Date September 14, 2007 Conclusion FB Job Number 12474 Reloading offers a safe, easy way Ad Name J-Max, Better by Design both to extend shooting dollars and to Magazine Concealed Carry 34 May Street Ad size 1/3 page Webster, NY 14580 develop consistent, purposeful training www.forwardbranding.com 4.625” x 4.875” ammo. These two factors provide 585 872-9222 an individual with two of the most Colors 4-C process important factors in firearms practice: more time on the range and a stable ammunition platform upon which one can focus on shooting fundamentals, or whatever your instructor may be teaching that day. n

[ Christopher Pilon is a senior manager for a large international software company. He is an avid hunter and shooting sports enthusiast who has taken to writing as an opportunity to share his knowledge and experience with others. ]

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 27 The case rim protrudes above the gauge. This round is too long because the bullet isn’t seated to the correct depth.

A straight edge dragged across the gauge will catch on a primer that is not seated deep enough. This round is OK.

How to Check ammunition An Ounce of Prevention [ BY john higgs ] “Should you be under the impression that the most terrifying sounds of the world of big-game hunting are the close snarl of a man eater…you’re wrong.” t is the cold, dead, metallic click not the time or place to find out that a enforcement agencies as customers. of the firing pin falling on a de- bad cartridge has caused a stoppage in (b) I will buy at least fifty rounds at a “Ifective cartridge primer. There is one’s firearm. time with the same lot number and re- no sound quite like it—trust me….It is There are certainly ways to deal with cord that number. Generally it’s printed one of the true sounds of death.” stoppages. Most gunfighting schools on the inside of each box. This is im- So wrote Peter Hathaway Capstick, teach drills to clear and reload the gun. portant because if I’m in a self defense famed author and professional hunter Some people carry a second pistol so shooting—and the case goes to trial— of African big game. People who carry that they don’t have to take the time to sample ammunition from the same lot a firearm primarily for defense against figure out what is wrong with their pri- may be obtained from the manufacturer two-legged predators have the same mary weapon when it stops shooting; for forensics testing. This is another rea- concern: What if the gun goes click in- they simply draw their backup (often son why I would only ever carry quality stead of bang? called a New York reload) and get back factory ammunition, never reloads. Even premium defensive ammuni- in the fight. That’s fine, but I prefer to (c) With each new lot of ammunition, tion is sometimes loaded incorrectly. I prevent stoppages as much as possible I will check the dimensions of every have a round of 9mm on my desk right by checking each round before I load it round, and also that the primer is cor- now that won’t chamber in my pistol. into a firearm for self-defense. rectly seated and is not inverted. This I’ve used the same brand of ammo for When I buy ammunition that I intend can be done for both semi-auto pistol years and this one round, with a bullet to carry in a defensive pistol I will: and revolver cartridges with either a that is not seated to the correct depth (a) Choose a brand and bullet type chamber gauge of the same cartridge in the case, is the only problem I’ve ever that is widely accepted. In other words, designation, or with a caliper gauge had. That’s a pretty good track record it is made by a recognized, reputable, (both are available from Midway USA for any manufacturer, but it isn’t 100 big company with a long and distin- and Dillon Precision.) The standard percent, and the middle of a gunfight is guished track record, that has many law overall length can be obtained from 28 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 A dial caliper can be used to measure the overall length of each round. Any noticeable exception to the “normal” length should be rejected.

Lot numbers can be found on the ammunition box and recorded for future reference. An Ounce of Prevention

the manufacturer, but the chances are cer friend of mine used to do this with if I run my fingernail around the inside that if all rounds in the box are the same his service pistol. Each day at the end of of the case rim and feel too many nicks length everything is OK. You may find his shift, he would remove the magazine caused by the extractor, it’s time for me some very slight variations—which is and run the slide to eject the chambered to replace that ammunition. As the say- probably normal—but a badly loaded round. The next day he would reload ing goes, an ounce of prevention is bet- round will be really obvious. that same round. One day it pulled a ter than a pound of cure. Otherwise, that Revolvers can remain loaded in- round apart in the action. We surmised pound of cure might go CLICK when it definitely. However, depending on the that the pistol’s tight chamber imparted should go BANG. n quality of the spring steel, some pistol a slight drag on the bullet each time the magazines if left loaded for too long will cartridge was extracted, gradually loos- Contacts take a set. In other words, the spring will ening it in the case. Midway USA: www.midwayusa.com be compressed for long enough that it When shooting a revolver, cases that loses the ability to reliably and forceful- are not crimped sufficiently may allow a Dillon Precision: ly push the next round of ammunition bullet to back out of the case under re- www.dillonprecision.com up to where the bolt will strip it off the coil and cause the cylinder to bind. magazine follower and chamber it in When a round is pushed up the feed [ John Higgs is a political refugee from the firearm. This is a good reason to buy ramp and into the chamber of a semi- England who escaped to the USA in or- extra magazines and rotate them regu- auto pistol, insufficient crimping may der to live free and own firearms. A natu- larly. I do mine about every 2-4 weeks. cause bullets to move further into the ralized U.S. citizen, he has been a part- But that’s just what works for me, your case and cause a failure to feed. time firearms instructor for fun and mileage may vary. Consequently, the I check my ammunition before I load profit since 1990. In the past few years he same ammunition gets cycled multiple it, and periodically while it is in service. has written various articles for Soldier times through the action. A police offi- After a few loading and unloading cycles, of Fortune magazine. ] NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 29 Hard Head Ted from DVC Targets is realistic looking, especially in dim light. It only falls when the vital area is struck.

Aim for Success

Hard Head Ted from the rear, showing its structure. A hit on the 8 inch chest impact plate knocks the target over. Shots that miss the plate leave the target standing. This is a great target for scenario training. IALEFI-QR and DS- Q1A Two approaches to graphic targets. The IALEFI uses a photo, the DS-Q1A line drawings. Either can be effective.

Aim for Success How Target Selection Affects Defensive Performance An often overlooked aspect of training and practice for defensive shooters is the selection of which type of target to shoot. [ BY TOM GIVENS ] his is an important consideration duce no effect at all in the short term, follows, based on looking at a human for a number of reasons. It has and may not even be noticed in the heat torso from the front: Tlong been accepted that “you will of battle. Over the years I have studied The area is bounded by the collarbone play the way you practice,” that is, you case after case of suspects shot mul- at the top, the bottom tip of the breast- will do in a fight what you repetitively tiple times without being incapacitat- bone at the bottom, and to the nipples do on the range, whether that action ed. These cases usually involve a large to either side. This forms a rough square is good or bad. This means we need to number of hits to non-vital areas, with about 8-9 inches on a side. conduct defensive shooting practice on the suspect finally being put down by a The area is bounded by a triangle targets that accurately reflect the size small number of hits to areas that actu- formed by a line drawn horizontally and anatomical configuration of the ally are vital. I have autopsy photos on from nipple to nipple, then upward target we will face on the street. my desk as I write this involving a young from each nipple to the Adam’s apple Before we get into the actual target adult male shot more than twenty times in the throat. This is often called the selection process, let’s first take a realis- before he collapsed. Several of these Cardiac Triangle. tic look at human anatomy as it relates hits were in the buttocks, lower abdo- Draw a straight vertical line right to handgun wounds. First, we need to men, and arms, and–to put it bluntly– down the center of the body from top accept that typical defensive handguns they don’t count. of head to crotch. Draw a horizontal are not very powerful, especially com- So where do we need to hit? Different line across at armpit level. These lines pared to a rifle or shotgun. Handgun authorities describe the area differently, intersect in the upper center chest. A bullets basically drill holes, and those but generally we are talking about the circle extending out four inches in all holes have to pierce vital organs to vertical centerline of the torso above directions from this center point is your produce the desired effect. Handgun the diaphragm. The three most com- target. wounds to non-vital areas often pro- mon ways to describe this area are as Please note that all three of these NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 31 B-27 compared to IALFI-Q. The International Association of Law Enforcement Firearms Instructors sought to improve the Q target by adding relevant scoring rings to the torso and head, and by locating the torso ring in the right part of the torso. Big improvement! descriptions put the “vital zone” in the of poor shooting. This allows the low- the torso, not the center of the chest. A same area of the body, on the vertical est common denominator personnel shooter can put all his shots in the lower centerline, in the upper center chest. to “qualify” periodically with their fire- part of the 8-ring of the B-27 and get a Also note that this is not a huge area, arms. Unfortunately, their use causes perfect score without having a single but rather an 8 inch circle or an 8 inch problems in the real world. hit in the vital zone which lies above square. I would urge you to think of hits Let’s start with the B-27. This target the diaphragm. This gives the shooter a outside this area as counting for very was designed for target competition in very distorted idea of his skill level and little in a fight. Inside this area you will NRA Police Combat matches. Scored as subsequent survivability in a fight. find the heart, the aorta and superior printed, the target is very challenging in The FBI/DEA “Q” target is almost as vena cava (the two largest blood bearing the deliberate, bullseye shooting mode bad. Meant to be a somewhat stylized vessels), the lungs, the arteries that feed for which it was designed. representation of the human torso and the lungs, and the upper spine. Damage The problem is, the target is often head, the entire target counts the same to these structures is required to bring used for defensive training when it is for scoring purposes. If a fifty round about rapid collapse of your attacker. scored completely differently. For train- course of fire is used, the hits count This brings me to targets that, if used ing scoring purposes, any hit inside the for two points each, and a score is very extensively in training, actually hurt 8-ring counts as five points, the 7-ring simply and quickly calculated. The your performance. Unfortunately, they counts as four points, and any hit else- obvious problem with this approach is are both very common in law enforce- where on the target counts as three that a hit in the lower left edge of the ment training programs, and as a re- points. The trouble is that a lot of those target’s hip region counts the same as sult, they are commonly used by private hits would be clean misses on an ac- one square in the heart or right between citizens in their training and practice tual human adversary. The 8-ring itself, the eyes. It doesn’t take a Medical routines. These targets are the ubiqui- for instance, measures 11.5 inches by Examiner to tell you that this approach tous B-27 and the FBI/DEA “Q” target. 14.5 inches, much larger than the ana- is flawed. I suspect the reason both are popular tomical vital area described earlier. The What, then, do we need in training in law enforcement circles is that they 7-ring is enormous, at 15.5 by 24 inches. targets? First, the silhouette or human are huge, easy to hit, and very forgiving Worse still, the X-ring is in the center of outline on the target should not be larger 32 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 than an average adult male human. shooter with some type of weapon. [ Tom Givens is the owner of Rangemaster The vital zone should be anatomically These targets help provide the in Memphis, TN. For over 30 years Tom’s correct in its placement, and it should subconscious reinforcement that we duties have included firearms instruc- be of a size that corresponds to the carry guns to shoot people not cardboard. tion. He is certified as an expert witness actual vital area of a human attacker. We need to become accustomed to on firearms and firearms training, giv- Target colors should be neutral grays, seeing our sights superimposed over ing testimony in both state and federal browns, and so forth, not stark black the figure of a person threatening us courts. He serves as an adjunct instruc- and white. Scoring rings should be with a weapon, so we won’t freeze tor at the Memphis Police Department subdued, to force students to shoot the when we see that in real life. Again, the Training Academy, the largest in correct area of the body without glaring scoring rings should be invisible while the state. Tom’s training resume in- scoring rings to guide them, especially shooting, to force the student to shoot cludes certification from the FBI Police after they have undergone solid, initial the right area. Firearms Instructor School, NRA Law training. I have seen very few thugs over One last target type to mention is the Enforcement Instructor Development the years with bold scoring rings printed reactive target. In addition to scoring on School, NRA Law Enforcement Tactical on their hoodies. paper and cardboard targets, we need Shooting Instructor School, Gunsite 499 On a side note, there are two broad to shoot realistic humanoid targets that under Jeff Cooper, and more. ] types of targets: there are basic fall down when hit in the vital zone, but marksmanship targets, and there are don’t fall otherwise. These targets teach Suppliers: graphic targets. We need both. Basic the student to follow through and keep DVC Targets targets help us teach basic skills to shooting until the threat goes down, all www.dvctargets.com new students. These targets should the while requiring good hits. The best (662) 489-5232 allow bullet holes to be seen easily, so of these is the Hard Head Ted, available the instructor can coach the student from DVC Targets. Qualification Targets based on their observation of bullet In the accompanying photos I have www.targets.net holes. The scoring rings can be easily included some examples of good (866) 498-8228 visible, to help program the student to training targets. These cost no more shoot the right area. Graphic targets than bad training targets. For most Law Enforcement Targets serve different functions. Graphic people, training time and ammunition www.letargets.com targets should look realistically like is limited, so why not try to get the most (800) 779-0182 a human adversary menacing the out of your practice sessions? n

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 33 Seven premier firearm training organizations recently answered questions regarding target styles used in their courses.

his effort was prompted by a I encourage all to attend any of the the whole story on the USCCA website need to show what target styles organizations listed for training. It at www.USConcealedCarry.com/pro- Tare available for shooters who will be time and money well spent. I targets.html. want to maximize their practice time. appreciate all of them taking time to It also serves to illustrate the different answer the mini-survey. As expected, The B-27 silhouette target and IPSC schools of thought within the training answers varied between the facilities. targets are as close as it comes to an community. However, certain common threads are industry standard for paper targets. apparent. All of the responses reflected Does your facility use these paper target professionalism and a commitment to patterns? If not, what paper target is train students to the best of their ability. chosen and why? Remember that any target style chosen Thunder Ranch (Heidi Smith): We is merely a tool (one of many) used in use the basic square bust IPSC target. training a student’s mindset. All targets that are to be engaged are The extensive responses from each armed in some sort of fashion. of the seven training facilities took up Tactical Response (James Yeager): several pages of text and are far too We do not use the B-27 because the lengthy for full publication in print. Get aiming center is too low. We do not use

Student facing a realistic “Izzy” style of paper target on the range. The red dot is placed on the target to focus a student on the center of mass. The Targets of the Pros [ BY TODD BURGREEN ]

A well used example of a Mike Gibson Manufacturing (MGM) Precision Rifle Target. The eye slot and chest plates swing open and shut when struck properly. Gunsite pioneered the use of the Northern Lights robot for super realistic training scenarios.

IDPA or IPSC targets because they have and clean up. You can also do negative no “neck.” We use a full sized humanoid space drills (remove the circle and below left: Gunsite utilizes a target of their with a heart and brain scoring area. We shoot through the hole) with the IDPA own design with no clear aiming point. also use “DEA Dot” targets as well as targets which helps with some problem Center of mass aiming is emphasized. our own precision pistol target we print children. below center and right: Gunsite is the out on 81/2 x 11 sheets. We use these in Suarez International (Gabriel Suarez): exclusive importer of the “Belgian” paper our Fighting Pistol and our Advanced Nope...I don’t use those. I use photo targets. The “Belgian” targets allow for Fighting Pistol. targets such as those produced by LE weapons to be added or removed based on scenario, and are designed for a 3D-like Storm Mountain (Rod Ryan): We use Targets, specifically the 11RT and LE28 effect. The targets are utilized in training either the IDPA or IPSC for the basic series. I want my guys to know right involving Gunsite shoot houses and other types of courses. They are easy to put up from the beginning that we are training realistic scenarios. GUNSITE PHOTOS COURTESY NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 35 ICE prefers to use three-dimensional targets whenever possible.

ICE uses paper targets in certain training courses, especially when conducting training at other sites. The different aiming points give an instructor flexibility when addressing an individual or a class’s marksmanship strengths and weaknesses. ICE PHOTOS COURTESY ROB PINCUS

to kill other men who happen to be hits to more precise shot placement? paper and move to steel as the shooter trying to kill us. Silhouettes or other Thunder Ranch: Only in rifle courses gets better. Reason is that steel provides “benign looking” targets do not do that are specific target areas highlighted. In a faster learning curve, more feedback. for us. pistol courses, the basic IPSC bust style I don’t teach a precision aiming point Mid-Atlantic Training Resources target is utilized. in the combat type of course due to the (Erik Lawrence): We use realistic Gunsite (Ed Head): We begin with skill sets breaking down, and we want Jihadist style targets from Blackheart center of mass hits and emphasize a “blood flow” grouping. Six hits to the International. We feel these targets precise placement by moving to head lungs, heart and liver are much better represent your threat, not bullseyes. shots in a small (2 inch x 2 inch) zone than 6 hits in the heart. If they get the Paul Howe’s CSAT is a properly designed on day 2 of the Defensive Pistol course. magic bullet during the fight that puts modification of the old IPSC that give Tactical Response: We do not use the guy down right now, fine, but don’t you full credit for a throat shot. the terminology “center of mass.” We plan on that happening. ICE (Rob Pincus): We do not. The use the more precise terms “heart” and Suarez International: We don’t main reason I’ve phased them out is “brain.” In addition to the three targets change targets, but our training is not that the placement of the “optimal” named above we use a punching bag in limited to the shooting range. We teach impact zone is not the truly preferred our Advanced Fighting Pistol to simulate a continuum of shooting which takes target area on a human, the high center shooting a human being in several into account both ultra-precise sight- chest. This can cause distraction to scenarios. Students have to contend focused shooting as well as threat- the students and incongruity with with several realistic factors. Accurate, focused point shooting on the move. instructions from the range staff. Other aimed, lethal fire is the undertone of Mid-Atlantic Training Resources: targets are just as easy to procure and every class we teach. We never allow 50 percent reduced size target force more accurately represent the areas of “good enough.” Our students are told students to shoot tighter groups. Also, focus for the students. to strive for “fist sized groups as fast use visually confusing styles for teaching as they can shoot them” regardless of center of mass. As handgun students progress up physical or environmental factors. ICE: In the Combat Focus Shooting your training curriculum are different Storm Mountain: Actually we go program, we really stress training target types chosen and if so, why? When from precision to center mass as the to a high level of proficiency and does the focus come off of center of mass progression happens. We start with efficiency within the realm of the 36 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 This is an example of making do on the road at a host’s range. It Why buy a BLOCK is the quality of instruction that matters. Any given target is just when you can a tool for an instructor to use for own a Kahr? training. ICE trains away from their world class facility, but still finds ways to simulate different scenarios with standard targets and spray paint. most probable before we get into more website at www.USConcealedCarry. exotic situations. We spend a lot of time com/pro-targets.html. n shooting the high center chest box on the LE Target’s SEB Target, and shooting [ Todd Burgreen is a freelance writer with the same area on photo-realistic targets work published in Precision Shooting, or reactive mannequins before we get The Accurate Rifle, The Varmint Hunter into mechanical sighted fire techniques Magazine, and SWAT. His topics have and more precise shot placement covered the gamut, including but not situations simulating targets using cover limited to, a CQB tomahawk article, or concealment. long range rifle, single-shot rifles, full- A more detailed version of this automatic rifles, hunting handguns article, with direct quotes from all seven and defensive handguns. Todd lives in Preferred Choice of trainers, is available on the USCCA Virginia with his wife and three sons. ] Undercover Armed Professionals Training facilities: Storm Mountain Thunder Ranch www.stormmountain.com www.thunderranchinc.com Gunsite 304-446-5526 541-947-4104 3.0” Barrel Models Tungsten Diamond www.gunsite.com 9mm, .40 S&W 928-636-4565 Suarez International ICE Training Coating www.suarezinternational.com www.icetraining.us Mid-Atlantic Training 928-776-4492 970-728-3403 Resources www.ma-tr.com Tactical Response 304-457-1280 www.tacticalresponse.com 731-676-2041

Target suppliers: LE Targets Inc National Target Company www.letargets.com www.nationaltarget.com PM9/PM40 Polymer frame and Action Targets 1-800-779-0182 301-874-4767 blackened stainless steel slide www.actiontarget.com MSRP: $837.00 801-377-8033 ManCom Systems Northern Lights Tactical www.mancomsystems.com www.northernlightstactical. 1-888-762-6266 com Made with Pride Blackheart International in the U.S.A. www.bhigear.com 310-376-4266 304-457-1280 Metal Spinning Targets www.metaltargets.com Porta Targets LaRue Tactical 585-768-7260 www.portatargets.com www.laruetactical.com 321-725-9991 512-259-1585 Mike Gibson Manufacturing P. O. Box 220, Blauvelt, NY 10913 www.mgmtargets.com Sales Support & Service: 508-795-3919 208-454-0555 Websites: www.kahr.com / www.kahrshop.com NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 37 FORCE-ON-FORCE NOTEBOOK If you need to get on your sights, leaning back keeps your pistol out of reach.

Using a close retention body index gets you on target quickly.

Carjacked! [ BY jack rumbaugh ] It’s a rainy night in a city in the South. our GPS unit is guiding you to Our daily routines have us in our the mill carjacker or something much your destination, but it didn’t cars a great deal. Some of us commute worse. Make sure you are prepared to Ytake into account the construc- two to three hours a day to and from decisively finish the problem. tion detours as you head into the down- our jobs. It would be to our advantage The first thing we want to consider town area. You are familiar with the as concealed carry permit holders to is our choice of weapons. The first is city and you know the detour is taking consider the possibility of having to concealed on our person and the sec- you through an area that isn’t the best fight from our vehicles. In this issue ond is what we are riding in. The uber- in the city. You take a second to adjust we will examine several scenarios that ninja mankiller .45 ACP is 230 grains. your CCW gear for easy access. To top it deal with some of the possibilities you The average car is 21,000,000 grains. all off, it starts to pour down rain, lim- might encounter. The first is an assail- That’s right. Million, with an “M.” Our iting visibility. You hang a right and a ant approaching from the front, as I en- first choice of weapon should always be shadowy figure steps off the curb in the countered. Second will be the assailant what we are riding in. Since it would be middle of the block and faces your car. approaching from the driver’s side, and detrimental to my bad guys to hit them He is blocking the lane you are in. You third, from the passenger side. I am not with a car, we will not be demonstrating only have seconds to make a decision. advocating fighting over your car if that this technique. Suffice it to say the dam- What do you do? is all the assailant wants. That is why we age done by a Toyota Prius at 40 mph What did you decide? I simply went have insurance. Typically, a carjacker will far exceed the damage done by the around the individual. will want you out of the car. Let them aforementioned .45 slug at 850 feet per This actually happened to me re- have it and call the gecko. Someone second. cently in my home town. I was on my with more nefarious intentions may One common theme throughout this way to my high school reunion and had want you to move over and they drive scenario, regardless of your position the scenario unfold just like I outlined to another location. Never allow this or the position of your assailant, is the above. As I went around the guy block- to happen. You are now in a fight for presentation of your pistol. You should ing the street, I noticed he had come your life. If you have children in the car carry your pistol in a manner that will from an alley between buildings. It was you’ll definitely have to fight regardless allow you to easily access it. Some a prime place to set up a carjacking. of whether you are facing the run of methods of carry such as small of the 38 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 back or strong side hip at five o’clock fect of shooting through glass. First, give yourself a split second to employ will not allow you to quickly and easily glass will deflect a bullet. The angle of your own weapon. If you point behind obtain your firing grip. Appendix carry the windshield and the mass and speed him as you say “Hey, there’s a cop,” it shines in this situation. You are able to of the bullet all factor into how much may give you a split second to get your adjust your seatbelt easily to allow you the bullet will be deflected. Second, pistol into the fight. You’ll have to com- to establish your initial firing grip with- when shooting through a windshield, press your presentation, limiting the out having to move in your seat to allow the bullets will move from your point distance you extend your pistol, and access to your weapon. Once you can rely on some sort of body index shoot- “get a grip,” you need to worry about ing to get hits on your bad guy. You cer- getting the pistol on target. To do so, tainly don’t want to extend the pistol out we need to talk about Firearm Safety the window and let your assailant have Rule Number Two: Never let the muz- easy access to your pistol. If the assail- zle cover anything you are not willing ant happens to come close and extend to destroy! If you strictly adhere to this his pistol into your car you may have to rule, the route your muzzle will take to employ some sort of empty hand tech- the target may involve a travel visa and nique to deflect the muzzle before you a left at Albuquerque. I’m sure I’ll get go to guns. some flack over this but a much more With the assailant approaching from realistic expectation is to not be care- the passenger side, you’ll likely have to less with your muzzle. In fact, this is use a ruse if the weapon is already in the what we teach in our classes at Suarez equation. If you are a right handed in- International. When you are presenting In the waistband carry at the appendix dividual, engaging directly to your right your pistol, your trigger finger should position makes accessing your pistol may be problematic in tight quarters. A be at its natural limit of extension and easy even while belted in. transition to your left hand may be ap- as you orient the muzzle on target, your propriate if the assailant is already in finger should travel to the trigger guard the car. If the assailant is still outside and prep your trigger. Simply get your the car, you will have to abandon two muzzle on target as quickly as possible handed shooting. Trying to keep both being sure to keep your finger off the hands on the pistol will require you to trigger until you are on target. turn your body to engage your oppo- Let’s look at the situation I found nent. Once you are sure that this is a myself in recently. With your assailant life-threatening situation, and you are directly in front of you, the accelerator indexed on target, solve the problem. pedal is your best choice. Your steering I have oversimplified the issue of wheel is a very close second. Run them carjacking for the sake of this article. over or go around. Avoidance is a per- There are multiple factors that can en- fectly acceptable strategy for dealing ter into the situation. You could spend with someone directly in front of your Reaching for a pistol carried strong side hours if not days sorting through all car. Since my assailant never presented requires you to move your body forward. the permutations. The simplest solu- a weapon, I drove around him and went tion is avoidance. Leave enough space on my way. Had he drawn a pistol, they of aim. If you are aiming into the center between yourself and the cars in front would still be cleaning him out of the of mass, you will most likely get good of you so that you can maneuver. If you grill of my rental car. hits directly in front of the vehicle. As see someone approaching your car who If you must engage directly to the the distances increase, the deflection shouldn’t be there, then leave the area. front you will be shooting through the will be greater. Finally, firing through a If you happen to get stuck in the detour windshield which presents a unique windshield would make it more diffi- from hell that makes an M. C. Escher set of problems to the driver and pas- cult to see through depending on con- painting look simple, be on alert and sengers. Firing a gun in an enclosed ditions. Just keep these things in mind be aware of your surroundings. It may car is going to be loud. Make sure you when planning your car strategy. make the difference in making it to the realize this fact. If you do have to shoot Let’s get to the scenarios. We’ll assume party on time or never getting there. n through automotive glass, there is the for the sake of this article that we will real possibility of glass shards blowing have to fight our assailant. We’ll start [ Jack Rumbaugh is a Suarez International back into the passenger compartment. with the assailant on the driver’s side. Staff Instructor for Virginia. He lives in the Hopefully you will have some form of The assailant would approach, make DC area with his wife and two teenagers. eye protection in the form of eyeglasses his demand, and produce a weapon. If A self-professed training junkie, he is usu- or sunglasses. your assailant has the advantage, you ally doing something that makes his wife We are also going to consider the ef- will have to use a ruse of some sort to shake her head and wonder. ] NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 39 IT DOESN’T HAVE TO MAKE SENSE... IT’S JUST THE LAW

MAKING JUDGES [ BY K.L. JAMISON ] The defendant was charged with carrying a firearm into a public building. he building in question was a to know a senator. The system also al- the recipient might be. If the recipient hospital, which the prosecution lows the Senate to abuse the President did not want to be a good friend, this Tclaimed was a public building. through his appointee. This process has was something he would remember. The defense turned on the technical le- added the verb “to Bork” to the English The candidate was sanctioned by the gal point that it was a public place but language after the abuse given to Judge state Supreme Court, and did not win not a public building. The judge was un- Bork when he was nominated to the the election, but less clumsy fundrais- comfortable. At one point he asked the Supreme Court. Nominations have been ing efforts go unnoticed. courtroom if anyone thought that the held up for various political purposes Judge Ellen “Maximum” Morphonius defendant had done the smart thing.1 causing some nominees to remove was famous for her independent streak, The judge clearly thought that if what their names from consideration. These her Tommy Gun, and her habit of hand- the defendant had done was not illegal, problems have been most obvious in ing out 130 year sentences.2 She also it was wrong and should be illegal. He Supreme Court nominations, but occur had to run for re-election. A large part then found the defendant not guilty. in trial court nominations as well. Since of this involved amassing a large cam- Despite his obvious prejudices federal judges are appointed for life, paign war chest to discourage anyone against gun owners, the judge ruled ac- a certain vetting is in order. However, from trying her. A local grocer was a re- cording to the law, which is what one senators, who are not appointed for liable contributor and introduced her wants from a judge. life, confuse the system with the worst to his wide circle of voting contacts. The There are several ways to make a features of interrogation and campaign downside was that whenever someone judge: Municipal court judges are typi- promises. wanted his help getting out of jury duty, cally hired by city councils. Judges of Direct election of state judges is com- she felt that she had to take his call and higher courts are made in one of three monly practiced. Elections are often the person was often excused.3 Even if ways: the federal system, election, or presented as a means to a more respon- nothing improper actually occurred, the some variation of the Missouri System. sive judiciary, by the same people who appearance of outside influence over a In the federal system and states which decry the influence of money and cor- judge is a problem. One would like to have adopted it, prospective judges are ruption in other elections. Money is the think that a judge’s ruling is based on recommended to the President by sen- lifeblood of politics, and judicial elec- the law and not concern over facing a ators. If the state has no senator of the tions are no different. Candidates solicit major contributor over the produce President’s party, senior party officials money from people they know, judicial counter. will advance a prospect. The prospects candidates know lawyers, lawyers who In election campaigns voters expect are then sent to the Senate for confirma- will practice before them. A judicial to see campaign promises. At the 2008 tion. The federal system has been criti- candidate in Kansas sent out a message NRA National Firearms Law seminar a cized as creating a process in which the to the effect that he needed money and Kentucky Supreme Court justice spoke first qualification of a potential judge is it was time to decide how good a friend on this problem.4 A judicial candidate 40 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 may promise to give every drug dealer Under any system, removing a judge ing firearms, but had never let them the maximum possible sentence, but is difficult at best. A mandatory retire- wander into their decisions. There is a under the ethical rules he must then ex- ment age is the most common removal better way. The state Bar Associations cuse himself from hearing the case on mechanism. Impeachment is often ad- typically rate judges.7 These ratings are the grounds of having prejudged part of vocated, mostly by unhappy litigants. gathered from lawyers who practice in the outcome. Not all judges do excuse Impeachment is difficult and rare. front of the judges being rated. Judges themselves, which provides grist for Judicial review boards receive com- who are rude, arbitrary or do not follow endless appeals. plaints of misconduct and disability. the law are not popular with lawyers. The problem of campaign promises Frequently, these consist of claims of Attempting to influence judges is can also be seen in confirmation hear- arbitrary and illegal rulings. The com- counter-productive. Letters and peti- ings in which senators demand ap- mission does not look for claims, but tions will not get past the judicial clerk. pointees commit themselves to a spe- for evidence of “misconduct, habitual Judges take offense at demonstrations cific ruling on issues which may come drunkenness, willful neglect of duty, and may take some measure to prove before the court. A potential judge may corruption in office, incompetency or they are not influenced by such things— be inclined to rule a certain way, but the any offense involving moral turpitude, measures which will not be welcomed law may not allow it. A ruling on per- or oppression in office.”5 Judges have by the demonstrators. sonal preference rather than the law is immunity for anything they do in court The National Rifle Association’s Legal the great evil of “activist judges.” that does not amount to taking bribes. Defense Fund finances litigation that The Missouri Plan was adopted in Some judges have been removed for has some influence on judges. The Fund response to judges elected by political erratic behavior on and off the bench. has also financed research into firearms machines. Under the plan, judicial ap- One judge was removed for demanding rights that shaped the Supreme Court’s plicants are screened by a panel com- sexual favors from women in custody landmark Heller decision. Contributions posed of two lawyers, two non-lawyers, cases.6 He also went to prison. to the Fund may be the best method of and an appellate judge. Local lawyers Jurisdictions that have some form influencing the judicial process. elect the attorney members and the of judicial election require a basis on Americans are constitutionally un- governor appoints the non-lawyers. The which the electorate can decide. A re- comfortable with a branch of govern- panel sends three names to the gover- view of the judge’s previous decisions ment that can control their daily ac- nor, who makes one a judge. The judge is not typically useful. At the 2007 NRA tivities, their money, their freedom, will stand for a “retention” election ev- National Firearms Law seminar, Justice and even their lives with the stroke of ery few years, depending on the level Wolff of the Missouri Supreme Court a pen. However such a branch is nec- of court in which he serves. Retention said that he had written opinions he essary. The best we can hope for is that elections are essentially votes of con- disliked because that was the law. While the judges will rule according to the law fidence or no confidence. There isno legislators may create whatever laws and ignore their personal beliefs—even opponent and seldom any campaign- they prefer, a thousand years of legal when we really want it the other way ing. One state court judge had the same tradition demands that judges only use around. n last name as a federal judge who had the materials at hand. The materials at seized control of the school district and hand are often defective. Some judges [ Kevin L. Jamison is an attorney in the ordered taxes raised. The state judge have made their own law, but this is a Kansas City Missouri area concentrating found it necessary to advertise that he violation of procedure and has not been in the area of weapons and self-defense. was not the one who raised the taxes. popular. Please send questions to Kevin L. Jamison He was retained. An activist once produced a list of 2614 NE 56th Ter Gladstone Missouri The Missouri Plan avoids the worst state judges which he claimed were 64119-2311 KLJamisonLaw@earthlink. elements of the appointment system or anti-gun. His process was to list all ap- net. Individual answers are not usually direct election. It has been adopted in pointees by a notoriously anti-gun gov- possible but may be addressed in future several states, but is not used in most ernor in the assumption that they were columns. ] Missouri counties. The rural parts of the also anti-gun. A review of the list showed state have retained the elective system that many were appointed by a pro-gun This information is for legal informa- for trial judges. The Missouri Plan is not governor, and re-appointed to a higher tion purposes and does not constitute perfect, but no human institution can court by the objectionable governor. legal advice. For specific questions you make that boast. Others may have had opinions regard- should consult a qualified attorney.

1. I objected; the defendant’s conduct was not up for referendum. 5. Missouri Rule 12.07. 2. Morphonios, Maximum Morphonios, William Morrow and Co Inc NY, 1991 6. O’Brien, Power to Hurt, Harper Paperbacks NT 1995. The elected judge was at 168. The oldest state resident was 130 and she thought it was appropriate. heir to a political dynasty, which never seems to mix well with the judiciary. 3. Morphonios supra at 216. 7. These are associations of lawyers, not taverns; they are often confused. 4. Judges stand for election in Kentucky.

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 41 Insight Technologies XTI Procyon light, riding on the accessory rail of a Ring’s Blue Gun shaped to mimic a .40 caliber S&W M&P.

This month’s column features a unique assortment of high-quality products. As always, these products have been thoroughly used and evaluated in real world conditions. REAL WORLD Insight Technologies Unbreakable XTI Procyon Walking-Stick Umbrella Insight Technologies is a leading sup- Some ideas are so simple that they are CARRY GEAR plier of tactical lights and lasers. I have brilliant. I love self-defense tools that reviewed their M-Series lights in previ- can be hidden in plain sight, disguised [ BY DUANE A. DAIKER ] ous columns, and I use them regularly. as everyday items. And, if they function Recently I obtained their newest rail like an everyday item too, that is a real mounted weaponlight, the XTI Procyon. bonus. The Unbreakable Umbrella is Umbrella is tough as nails. Each um- The Procyon sports important new up- such a tool. Thomas Kurz of Real Self- brella is hand-crafted in Europe from grades, including an LED light source, a Defense, LLC designed the Unbreakable the highest quality materials, including tough aluminum body, and multiple il- Umbrella to be the ultimate covert an ABS composite shaft. You can choose lumination modes. fighting tool. Everyone knows that a from an ABS plastic crooked handle or Unlike previous models, the Procyon stick or club makes an excellent weap- a straight wooden handle. The whole has three modes of operation: constant on. But, it is difficult to carry a club in package weighs 1 pound, 12 ounces or on, momentary on, and strobe. The your everyday life. Some schools teach less, depending upon choice of handle. strobe mode is easy to activate, and can “cane defense,” which is great if you are And the best thing is that this is just an be very disorienting to anyone on the old enough and frail enough to carry a umbrella. It is legal to take anywhere. receiving end. This light will crank out cane convincingly. But the beauty of an Even on close inspection, there is noth- 125 lumens for about 90 minutes, which umbrella is that anyone is impressive for a light of this size. This can carry one discretely. light appears to be very tough, and Umbrellas are pretty will undoubtedly survive the toughest common all across this conditions you can reasonably expect. country, so long as there The unit is also waterproof to about is any chance of rain! five meters, so rain is no problem. The You can even carry um- Procyon has a lifetime warranty, and re- brellas into secure areas tails for $169, although street prices run and onto airplanes. less than $150 on average. The Insight The problem with Technolgoies XTI Procyon is an exellent ordinary umbrellas is Legal everywhere, the choice for a hard use rail mounted tac- that they are flimsy at Unbreakable Umbrella is tial light. best. The Unbreakable a self defense tool that can be hidden in plain sight. 42 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 ing unusual about this item. But, it’s virtually unbreakable—which makes it useful for so much more than just stay- ing dry. You have to view the videos at www. never-thought-of-it.com. Mr. Kurz can stand on the umbrella suspended be- tween two chairs. He can also beat the Wilson Tactical Elite Level 1, a living snot out of a heavy punching tactical folder with a blade just under 4 inches in length. bag and slice through watermelons, all without breaking the umbrella. I didn’t trust myself to balance on my umbrella, knife utilizes a thumb stud for ambidex- the same way. I highly recommend you but I whacked it against some hard sur- trous opening, and a sturdy pocket clip consider a Wilson Tactical knife. faces with gusto and there was no sign permits tip up or tip down carry. The of any damage. The video demos are le- blade locks open with a strong frame Crimson Trace gitimate. I have also used the umbrella lock design. All materials in this knife Laserguard during Florida’s rainy season, and even are top notch: 440C blade steel, tita- Regular readers of this column know during a close call with Hurricane Ike. I nium handles, stainless steel hardware, that I like laser aiming devices, and am happy to say that the Unbreakable and a Tacti-Kote finish. The Tactical that I particularly like Crimson Trace Umbrella worked better than any um- Elite also ships with a distinctive and Lasergrips. I have tested a number of unique lanyard. different models over the years. The This knife carries and handles excep- challenge for Crimson Trace has always tionally well. There is no doubt this knife been to adapt Lasergrips to polymer inspires confidence with its strength and framed guns that don’t have removable REAL WORLD quality. I can’t see how you could break grip panels. Crimson Trace has become this knife in reasonable use, and Wilson very adept at getting around this prob- Tactical will stand behind their product lem and coming up with innovative so- if you do. Ryan Wilson is very serious lutions. Their latest solution, aimed at CARRY GEAR about making, and keeping, his cus- the smallest polymer handguns, is the tomers satisfied. In fact, Wilson Tactical Laserguard. will sharpen your knife at any time for The Laserguard is not attached to only the cost of return shipping. the grip area—thus the new name. The The Tactical Elite comes in a variety of Laserguard attaches securely to the front brella I have ever owned. finishes, and can be had with or without of the trigger guard, under and against I think this is a great product. serrations. Prices start at $175, which is the dustcover. This places the laser Undoubtedly, if you are used to using very reasonable for a handmade knife close to the front of the gun, just below cheap umbrellas the price tag seems of this quality. I am really impressed the barrel. Unlike other lasers of similar high at $179.95. But, take comfort in the with my first experience with a Wilson design, the Crimson Trace model places fact that this is far more than an um- Tactical knife, and I think you will feel the activation switch where you want it brella, and will probably endure lon- ger than your previous ten umbrellas. As you would expect, the Unbreakable Umbrella is backed up with a lifetime warranty.

Wilson Tactical Elite folding knife Ryan Wilson and Wilson Tactical have been hand crafting serious tacti- cal knives since 2000. These top quality knives are in high demand by the mili- tary and other serious operators. After hearing some very positive reviews, I Crimson Trace Laserguard installed on a decided to get a Wilson Tactical knife for Ruger LCP. Unlike other lasers of similar evaluation. I obtained a Wilson Tactical design, the Crimson Trace model places the activation switch on the front of Elite Level 1, a tactical folder with a the firearm’s grip surface for instinctive blade almost four inches in length. The activation with grip pressure. NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 43 CrossBreed’s MiniTuck holster, shown here Muyshondt Aeon with a Ruger LCP, Flashlight combines the comfort You may not have heard of Muyshondt and flexibility of leather before now. This is a truly innovative with the durability and simplicity of Kydex. new illumination tool. The Aeon can be summed up in one word: small! This remarkable light is not much larger than its lithium CR2 battery. The unit measures just over two inches long, and weighs only 1.5 ounces. This is truly a keychain-sized light. Muyshondt did not skimp on any as- pect of this light, which features a high tech Cree LED lamp, sapphire window, aircraft aluminum body, brass innards, gold plated contacts, and Mil-spec hard anodizing. The result is a tough, high quality flashlight that cranks out more than 100 lumens in its high output mode. The light is activated by twisting the body, first for low output, then twist- to be—on the front of the firearm’s grip Small enough to fit on a surface for instinctive activation with keychain, the Muyshondt grip pressure. The Laserguard also has Aeon flashlight still a master on-off switch, which is a nice cranks out more than 100 convenience for storage or when the lumens of super-bright gun is not being carried. And, of course, light. the laser is fully adjustable for windage and elevation. One downside of the Laserguard is that it does limit your holster selection since it drastically alters the shape of the gun. Your existing holsters won’t fit. However, several manufacturers are now making Laserguard compatible de- signs. One suggestion is K&D Holsters. My new pocket holster is on order, but Kydex. All surfaces that touch your ing farther for high output. The beam is didn’t make it in time for this deadline. body are leather, but the gun is retained very bright in high output mode and, The Laserguard is currently available by form-fit Kydex. This style of holster frankly, is unbelievable for a light of this for the Ruger LCP (LG-431) and the Kel- can provide a lot of comfort and dura- size. Tec P-32 and P-3AT (LG-430). The sug- bility. CrossBreed has scaled down their Battery life on the Aeon is remark- gested retail price is $209, and the prod- popular SuperTuck holster to accom- able, with an advertised runtime of 1.5 ucts are backed by Crimson Trace’s ex- modate smaller guns like the Ruger LCP hours in the high output mode, or up to cellent warranty and product support. shown in the accompanying photo, and 40 hours in the low output mode. If you are in the market for a laser, check other models like the Kahr PM models In my opinion, this light is not a tacti- out this excellent new offering and the Sig 232. The Mini-Tuck is a tuck- cal light. Its small size would make it dif- able, inside the waistband holster. Gun ficult to handle in a fight, and the twist CrossBreed retention is very good; enough, but not switching mechanism doesn’t permit MiniTuck Holster too much. The holster wears well and momentary on-off switching. However, CrossBreed is a small holster shop provides good concealment and good this light is still a fantastic tool. This is based out of Republic, Missouri. access. The basic price of the holster is one light that you can always have on CrossBreed, as the name suggests, spe- $65.50. You can upgrade to horsehide you. As shown in the photos, my test cializes in leather/Kydex hybrid hol- or other clip styles for a few extra dol- light has been attached to my keys for sters. These hybrid designs combine lars. All CrossBreed Holsters come with a few weeks. It has come in handy any the comfort and flexibility of leather a lifetime guarantee, and delivery times number of times, and has never left me with the durability and simplicity of (at least for now) are pretty short. wanting for more light! The Aeon has 44 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 also survived the abuse of being a key-chain light with no scratches ,)-)4%$!6!),!"),)49 or damage. The Aeon carries a price tag !NERGONOMICALLYNOVELSELF DEFENSIVElREARMCHAMBEREDINMM commensurate with its high qual- 3LIMPROlLE3UITEDFORHOMEUSE CONCEALEDCARRYENTHUSIASTS ity and high technology. The basic light retails for $199, and a tita- COLLECTORSORBACKUPGUN)DEALFORDISABLED SENIORSAND nium version lists for $399. If you OTHERSWITHMANUALDEXTERITYLIMITATIONS/PTIONAL already own a high quality flash- 0ICATINNYRAIL!4&APPROVEDASASTANDARDPISTOL light, the price may not shock you too much. And, I assure you, you will get more use out of this tiny powerhouse than any other light you own. I am a firm believer that you should always have a light $ISCOUNTFORALL handy, and this one makes that very, very easy. n 0RE 0RODUCTION/RDERS 2ESERVE9OURS.OW Contacts %ASYTO3HOOT The Unbreakable Umbrella WWWPALMPISTOLCOM www.real-self-defense.com ORCONTACT#ONSTITUTION!RMSAT   3ERIOUS$EFENSE

Wilson Tactical products www.wilsontactical.com (870) 423-3319

K&D Holsters www.kdholsters.com

Crimson Trace Laserguard www.crimsontrace.com (800) 442-2406

Crossbreed www.crossbreedholsters.com (888) 732-5011

Muyshondt www.muyshondt.net

Insight products www.insighttechgear.com (877) 744-4802

[ Duane A. Daiker writes exten- sively on equipment, training, and concealed carry issues from a civil- ian perspective. He has been writ- ing for CCM since its first issue, and writes regularly for Shooting Illustrated. Duane has been a lifelong shooter and goes about his life as an armed, responsible, and somewhat opinionated citi- zen. Duane can be contacted at CONCEALED CARRY Daiker@RealWorldCarryGear. com, and welcomes your com- DISCUSSION FORUMS AND MORE ments and suggestions for gear reviews. ] usconcealedcarry.com NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 45 We see the same trends toward more lumens and longer runtimes in weapon-mounted lights as in handhelds. In well engineered lights, LEDs are very resistant to the rigors of this demanding environment.

[ BY TIM THORSTENSOn ] LED Tactical Flashlights: Essential Information for Smart Shopping

You can’t study armed self-defense for long without realizing that a tactical flashlight can be as important as a good gun or proper ammo. ince many violent pable of making all the light you would encounters happen ever need, but the big problem here is Sat night, the ability efficiency. Making a lot of light demands to positively assess threats a lot of power, and even the best batter- and identify targets is an ies are limited in how much total ener- obvious legal and moral gy they can provide. This means that if requirement for anyone you want a brighter incandescent light, equipped to use deadly it is either going to use more batteries force. A really bright light (which leads to a bigger flashlight that can stop aggression before may be impractical to carry diligently) it escalates. The typical or it is going to suck a smaller number criminal likes easy targets, of batteries dead more quickly (which and the person who blasts also has practical drawbacks.) him in the face with a Light Emitting Diode (LED) technol- blinding and disorienting ogy can change this equation. Simply LED replacement modules for many popular SureFire lights are available beam of light does not fit put, LEDs are more efficient than in- from both the factory and aftermarket this definition. But the desire for bright- candescent light bulbs at converting suppliers. The factory unit will increase er lights is hampered by some basic electricity into light. Because of this, the brightness of a SureFire 6P (and scientific facts and their practical rami- they offer a way to increase brightness similar models) from 65 lumens to 80, fications. The incandescent bulb tech- while keeping the flashlight reasonably while extending runtime from one hour nology that has been around since the small and the battery life fairly long. to several. days of Thomas Edison is perfectly ca- The problem is that LED flashlights are 46 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 The tight beam produced by the Here’s a closer view of what SuperTac’s large reflector can easily the tight SuperTac beam can illuminate a subject at 300 feet. do at 300 feet. At this range, the broader-focused TL-2 is totally ineffective (and is not pictured).

Brightness isn’t the whole story! The light must also be focused into a pattern suitable for its intended use. These Streamlight LED flashlights (SuperTac at top, TL-2 at bottom) are similar in lumen output (135 and 120, respectively), but they each focus the light very differently.

At close range, the SuperTac’s tight beam The broader beam lights up the subject’s of the TL-2 shows face, but not his hands. us the big picture.

technically complicated and LED tech- light sources, rather than specific flash- our goal of keeping the unit compact. nology is changing rapidly. The net re- lights, sticking with the numbers from A look at SureFire’s LED offerings re- sult can be an expensive purchase that one very reputable company will lend veals the potential advantages of this is a disappointment down the road. a useful consistency to the data. That technology. Their L2 LED light produces said, we can draw a baseline by noting 100 lumens, which is close to the output Understanding that SureFire’s broad range of 2-battery of their 20-minute incandescent bulb. the numbers incandescent lights all produce between But the greater efficiency of the LED The lumen is a standardized mea- 60 and 65 lumens when equipped with light source keeps runtime at one hour, sure of perceived light intensity. Many standard lamps designed to run for which is on par with their standard experts suggest a light capable of pro- about one hour on a set of batteries. You 65 lumen incandescent bulbs. These ducing at least 50 lumens for use in can increase output to conjunction with a defensive handgun. 120 lumens in most of Fifty lumens may be enough light for them by switching to threat assessment and target identifica- an “ultra-high-output tion in most situations, but a brighter lamp,” but the laws of light often has definite advantages. physics and chemis- Let’s examine what LEDs can do for try kick in with a ven- us. For simplicity, we’ll confine our in- geance: battery runtime vestigation to lights that use two stan- is cut to 20 minutes. Of dard 123A lithium batteries as a power course, you can kick source. This keeps us in the arena of the up the brightness and small flashlights that are convenient to maintain runtime by The flashlight supplied with Safariland’s Rapid carry routinely. For comparison pur- going to lights that use Light System (RLS) produces 65 lumens from three poses, we will stick with SureFire’s data. more batteries, but inexpensive AAA batteries powering an energy-efficient Since our purpose here is to compare that gets us away from LED. Until recently, the available light sources were too power hungry for alkalines. NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 47 Lumens vs. Candlepower: A lumen measurement incorporates the total light output of a source, while a candlepower measurement only describes above: The 80 to 120 lumens typical of the intensity of light at a specific point, usually at the brightest spot in the modern high-end LED tacticals (top) beam. The Streamlight SuperTac (beam at left) and TL-2 (beam at right) are has its uses. But the 1,000 lumens or quite comparable in lumens (135 vs. 120) but very different in “peak beam so from a cheap old 12 volt spotlight candlepower” (30,000 vs. 7500). A high candlepower value is not necessarily (bottom) puts things in perspective. desirable for tactical flashlight applications. Compact tactical flashlights are not the answer to every lighting need! numbers establish the technical advan- tactical lights, including the TL-2, NF-2 quality” flashlights you see in the local tage of LEDs, but if we look further we and Scorpion. The ones listed in their stores. The problem with this technique will also see the technical confusion. 2007 catalog produced a not-too-im- is that light output will decline progres- SureFire’s L4 produces the same 100 lu- pressive 47 lumens for about 1.75 hours. sively from maximum as the batteries mens as the L2, but runtime increases But Streamlight has recently released discharge, and the light produced after from one hour to 2.5 hours. Even more new models with upgraded LEDs, and a few hours of operation may be very, confusing, their L5 actually puts out the these churn out 120 lumens and boast very dim. The more sophisticated elec- same amount of light but claims a bat- a longer runtime! Clearly, this is great tronics used in most good quality tacti- tery life of 4.5 hours. Remember, all of news for those who desire a bright and cal flashlights will shorten runtime, but these lights use two lithium 123A bat- reliable tactical flashlight. But you can close-to-full brightness will be main- teries. How can this be? Actually, these also see how an uninformed shopper tained for much of the shorter run. conflicting numbers reveal the techni- could wind up with a big case of buyer’s We need to be very careful when eval- cal complexity of LEDs. In the world remorse if they bought the 2007 model. uating battery life claims for LED-based of LED-based flashlights there are two flashlights. This is especially true when major issues that we need to under- Durability and we are comparing the conservative val- stand in order to evaluate these devices battery life ues of a reputable flashlight maker to intelligently: First, LED capabilities Advertising can lead us to believe that the multi-hour runtimes being cited for continue to improve rapidly. The top LED lamps are almost bombproof, but “Brand X” flashlights from an obscure commercially available LEDs of today the fact is that it is very easy to burn internet site. Really, the makers of LED put out considerably more light and use them out, or at least compromise their flashlights should supply a graph that notably less power than the best units long-term performance, by supplying shows the changes in light output over available even just a couple of years ago. them with too much electrical current. the lifetime of a set of batteries. “100 lu- Second, runtime claims require careful Because of this, almost all LED flash- mens and a 4.5 hour runtime” sounds attention from the consumer. lights incorporate some kind of elec- great, but a graph would let us see how Flashlight makers do not actually tronic regulation to control the amount many lumens we will still be getting af- make the LEDs themselves, so what we of juice flowing to the lamp, and the ter the batteries have run for 1, 2, 3, or see in SureFire’s apparently confusing type of regulation that is employed will 4 hours. Streamlight has put this infor- numbers is simply a reflection of the govern how the flashlight behaves as mation right on their product packages fact that they are in the process of incor- the batteries are discharged. The easiest and on their website. porating the latest available LEDs into and cheapest means of regulation is to their products. As another example from hook a simple resistor between the bat- New and improved a different company, Streamlight offers teries and the LED lamp.This is a com- Finally, it’s beneficial to investigate LED versions of several of their popular mon strategy for some of the “consumer what the folks who actually make the 48 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 LEDs are up to, because this can give us a hint of what we can expect to see show- ing up in LED flashlights in the near fu- ture. As I noted, the change in technol- ogy here is rapid and impressive: Only a couple years ago, the best LEDs could produce about 150 lumens of light, and their power consumption would deplete a pair of lithium 123A batteries in an hour or so. But several LED makers now have lamps that can produce upwards of 180 to 250 lumens while using only one- half to two-thirds as much power! If you don’t need a flamethrower, there’s still good news here: LEDs do not need to be run at full tilt, so another option is to dial back the light output (which also reduc- es power consumption) and then slash the size of the flashlight. As an example, SureFire’s new E1B Backup produces 80 lumens from one lithium battery and has a good runtime—good news for the bulk-conscious concealed carrier. My guess is that we will continue to see ongoing improvements in brightness, runtime, compactness and features, along with a reduction in operation costs. Because there are a lot of important and tricky details associated with modern tactical flashlights, a follow-up article will be posted on the USCCA web page at www.usconcealedcarry.com/LED-lights. html in an effort to shed some additional light on the things to consider when buy- ing an LED tactical flashlight. Even if this technology stuff bores you silly, I implore you to do your research because these are potentially life or death tools, and some of them can cost you more than a perfectly functional gun. n

Contacts SureFire www.surefire.com (800) 828-8809

Streamlight www.streamlight.com ADVERTISE (800) 523-7488 IN CONCEALED [ Tim Thorstenson is a chemist who lives and shoots in Bismarck, North Dakota. His goal CARRY MAGAZINE in this series of articles is to inform readers of the scientific aspects of armed self-defense, Contact Bob at enabling a better-informed evaluation of self- defense tools and information. Contact him at (360) 665-0542 [email protected]. ] [email protected] NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 49 ARMED SENIOR CITIZEN

We cannot afford to fall asleep as we go about our daily business lest we be

taken by a violent Like-minded friends can predator because we help you increase your level of awareness by were unaware of our constantly challenging you to practice and pay surroundings. attention to the world around you.

SEE IT COMING: [ BY BRUCE N. EIMER, Ph .D. ] SURVIVAL OF THE SMARTEST It seems the big cities and towns of America are becoming increasingly dangerous. ere in Philadelphia where violent crimes are becoming more and Hmore commonplace, not a day goes by without news reports of innocent folks getting beaten, shot, robbed, or murdered. Recently, a sleeping man on a Philadelphia subway at a quarter past midnight was awakened by a maniac with a ball-peen hammer trying to club him to death. He survived, but sustained serious injuries. His random attacker, who had a history of mental health issues, as well as a long criminal history, even had his five year old son Regular practice and with him on the train! The Philadelphia good training create self Police Commissioner, who favors a total confidence, and people ban on handguns for all law abiding who have confidence in citizens, audaciously commented that themselves and their skills he was surprised that no able bodied often project a look that persons came to the victim’s assistance. violent predators know how to read and avoid. In another news story, a senior citizen 50 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 LFI Staff Instructor Steve Denney instructs students SEE IT COMING: in flashlight techniques. Professional instruction often helps new shooters build a SURVIVAL OF THE SMARTEST lifestyle of awareness.

walked into a public men’s room at a gun friendly or self defense friendly ju- gun have done the sleeping victim of Center City Philadelphia Mall and was risdiction. Would you risk your life to the hammer-wielding maniac? He was beaten senseless by three teenage gang come to the defense of a total stranger? asleep when he was attacked! Would bangers who had stalked him and staked Remember that an angry attacker with the senior citizen who was attacked in out the men’s room. In yet another a club or a hammer is employing deadly the mall restroom have had a chance to story, an elderly man was shot in the force. Deadly force in defense of self or acquire his firearm and use it to repel face by a teenager and an accomplice other innocents who are being subject- his attackers? I don’t think so. Each of while sitting on his porch. ed to unprovoked deadly force is legally these victims was behind the “action- What do all of these victims have in and morally warranted. But the defen- reaction curve.” They didn’t have time common besides being victims of vio- sive deployment of deadly force comes to react to their attacker’s actions. Their lent criminals? The answer is that they with serious repercussions, especially reactionary gap was too narrow. were all taken by surprise by violent in an anti-self defense, anti-gun juris- What lessons can be learned from predators. They didn’t see it coming. diction. these and similar incidents of violent While innocent bystanders of the I think what all three of these recent criminal victimization? I think that subway clubbing called police and later incidents underscore is the fact that we the important lesson is that you have came to the victim’s first aid after the can never take our safety or security for to act smart to survive in this violent perpetrator left the crime scene, can granted. We cannot afford to fall asleep world. You cannot rely on the police or we blame any of them for not interven- as we go about our daily business lest we the government. When the wolf comes ing? The unprovoked attacker was a big be taken by a violent predator because for you, they will not be there. Neither scary guy. Are we surprised that they we were unaware of our surroundings. the police nor government agencies did not put their own lives and limbs We must remain in a condition of to- care about your personal safety. Their at risk? We will never know whether or tal awareness and preparedness at all order of business is on a different level. not any of them were carrying a con- times so that we can see danger com- Ultimately you can only count on your- cealed weapon, but what would you do ing and take action to either remove self to protect you. if you were carrying and you witnessed ourselves from the threat or confront I am sure that if any innocent bystand- such an incident? Philadelphia is not a it. What good would a concealed hand- er had intervened with deadly force as NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 51 Chances of surviving a violent attack are vive only if you are smart or lucky, and improved by carrying I wouldn’t count on luck alone. There a substantial caliber are many kinds of intelligence, but basi- handgun with which cally intelligence refers to the ability to you have trained, adapt to your environment, to solve the practiced, and are problems it presents, and to come out proficient. But even on top. We all need to cultivate street those who are well- sense—street intelligence. armed and well- trained do best when I’ll borrow a page from Presidential they see and avoid hopeful Senator John S. McCain, who trouble while it’s still wrote an engaging little book entitled brewing. Why Courage Matters: the Way to a Braver Life. McCain states, “We are taught to understand, correctly, that courage is not the absence of fear but the capacity for action despite our a Good Samaritan in any of these inci- different. You project self confidence fears.” I would say that acting intelli- dents, in this jurisdiction, the legal af- and a “do not mess with me” kind of ap- gently requires courage because it de- termath for them would not have been pearance. And I am not talking about mands that we face our fears in order to good. Furthermore, if a Good Samaritan gun muscle or bravado. I am talking cope with potential danger. Stupidity, were to intervene, one would hope that about a look that violent predators the absence of intelligence, is exempli- he would be prepared to handle such a know how to read. When they see it, fied by keeping one’s head in the sand or violent situation. Otherwise, the thing they decide to pass on you and look for in one’s lap, or keeping one’s eyes closed to do is to call 9-1-1 from a safe place. easier prey. and ears shut. It sometimes takes cour- If you habitually carry a concealed When you carry, you must be aware age to make the right decision, choice, firearm for personal protection, hope- of your surroundings at all times. You or call. This could mean not interven- fully you have been trained to use it must protect your firearm from the ing in an incident, but rather taking correctly, and you are aware of when hands of those who would take it from safe cover and calling 9-1-1, or it could it is appropriate or not appropriate you if they could and use it against you. mean intervening if you know that right to deploy it Hopefully, you are aware When you carry, if you are confronted is on your side and you have the means of the limitations of a firearm in close with immediate and unavoidable deadly to prevail. Courage could also mean quarter confrontations and the dan- force, your first trained reaction should venturing into places unarmed where gers of deploying your firearm in public be to create distance between you and you would prefer to be armed, but are places. Hopefully you have alternative your attacker so that you have room to not legally permitted. But the upshot of self defense tools at your disposal. But deploy your firearm. However, if you it all is to stay aware and to be informed. what if you do not? What if a concealed remain aware of your surroundings—a Be prepared. Be smart. Know your limi- handgun is your only hammer? What if 360 degree environment at all times— tations and your strengths, but cultivate you are a senior citizen or a physically you should be able to see or sense in clear mindedness and the capacity to challenged person? If that is the case, advance when something does not look make decisions. you had better habitually practice good or feel right. This will buy you time to As my friend John Farnam likes to say, mental awareness skills so that you can take adequate steps so you can stay out “Be decisive. Don’t dawdle.” n keep your distance from potential trou- of harm’s way or prepare to deal with ble. You had better think before you the threat. You can never afford to let [ Bruce N. Eimer, PhD, is a licensed clini- walk head down into a public restroom, your awareness mantle down. You can cal and forensic psychologist, NRA cer- or fall asleep on the subway, or even never afford lapses in awareness in this tified firearms instructor, Florida and ride the subway after a certain hour. dangerous world. Utah concealed firearms instructor, and And if you sit on your porch, (hopefully Whether we are going armed or not, a professional writer who co-authored armed) you had better see the wolves we must all train to see it coming so we The Essential Guide to Handguns: coming for you before it is too late! can avoid it or fight it if necessary. We Firearm Instruction for Personal Naturally, I advocate being armed at should all plan and mentally rehearse in Defense and Protection. As a co-owner all times. If you are carrying a substan- advance what we would do if such and of Personal Defense Solutions, LLC (www. tial caliber handgun with which you such happened. PersonalDefenseSolutions.net), Bruce have trained, practiced, and are profi- As law abiding citizens, we should offers individual shooting instruction cient, there is no question in my mind never go to places carrying a gun that and teaches concealed carry and hand- that your chances of surviving a violent we would not dare venture into without gun safety classes. He can be reached at attack are improved. When you carry, a gun. We must act smart at all times. Dr.Bruce@PersonalDefenseSolutions. and are well trained, your demeanor is In this dangerous world, you will sur- net. ] 52 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 JPFO LIBERTY CREW continued from page 54

suspect I’m exaggerating even a little bit, go to www.thegangmovie.com and check out The Gang: How A Government Agency Uses The Law To Destroy Your Rights And Freedoms. Another thing to remember is that you can throw your entire life away complain- ing about the way things are, or trying to get other people to act. If you simply act, some folks are bound to follow your ex- ample. Aaron Zelman, founder and execu- tive director of Jews for the Preservation of Firearms Ownership has his own idea about what should be done concern- ing DC v Heller. He’s making a 15 minute movie (smooth, concise, polished, and totally professional) for presentation on YouTube and on other internet sites, telling the whole world what the Second Amendment really means, and setting the Supreme Court straight (the same body that once told a man he was meat, and gave slavery their rubberstamp of approv- al) once and for all. Aaron hasn’t waited for anybody else to jump on to his band- wagon or give him any kind of go ahead. Learn more about what Aaron’s doing and how you can help at www.JPFO.org and click on “2A TODAY FOR THE USA.” Whimpering that change is impossible is merely an excuse not to take action. What if the Abolitionists had believed that? Human beings would be on the auc- tion block today in beautiful downtown Peoria, Los Cruces, or Tacoma. Plan and behave as if you’re the only one in the fight. Tell yourself that nothing will ever get done if you don’t do it. And never for- get that “It can’t be done” is a self-fulfilling prophecy. n

[ Four-time Prometheus Award-winner L. Neil Smith has been writing about guns and gun ownership for more than 30 years. The author of 27 books, he is the most widely-published and prolific libertarian novelist in the world, and is considered an expert on the ethics of self-defense. Email L. Neil Smith at [email protected] or visit www.JPFO.org. ] NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM 53 JPFO LIBERTY CREW

MAKING CHANGE HAPPEN [ BY L. NEIL SMITH ]

used to believe, naively, that if the families from what had become a ruth- Nothing. Ever. Really. Improves. American people ever managed to less and aggressive foreign power bent Some conservatives (those whose Ilearn the truth about their nation’s on reducing them “under absolute des- 1994 “revolution” quickly fell flat on history and its current situation, there potism.” But as usual, I digress. its fatuous face) like to attack those would be a revolution, or at least some What my lawyer friend was asking, in they characterize as “purists” and “per- kind of major, sweeping reforms. Now, a effect, was, did the Dred Scott decision fectionists,” and defend themselves trifle older, sadder, wiser, I understand stop Abolitionists who had striven since against better conservatives and liber- that the instant they start to hear the the 18th century to end slavery? Did tarians by quoting Voltaire’s Alibi: “The truth, a reflex pounded into them by they just give up and say to themselves, perfect is the enemy of the good.” What the public school kicks in. They shut “Well, that’s about the best it’s reason- they understand, of course, in whatever their eyes as tight as they can, slap their able to expect in this day and age”? serves them as their heart of hearts, is hands over their ears, and chant over that if it weren’t for those of us who in- and over in a shrill voice, “I’m not listen- The crystal-clear sist upon the perfect, there’d never be ing to the Constitution! language of the any good. Which brings us right back to I’m not listening to the Constitution! DC v Heller. To anyone really concerned I’m not listening to the Constitution!” Constitution, about the Bill of Rights, it is neither per- Like it or not, not everybody is ecstat- especially of the Bill fect nor good. My attorney friend laughs ic over the Supreme Court’s recent han- cynically that what it really represents is dling of DC v Heller. While the court–in of Rights, is routinely full employment for lawyers for the next an anemic 5-4 decision–conceded that and deliberately century. Looking at it most charitably, the Second Amendment’s guarantee of with regard to the Second Amendment, the right to own and carry weapons is muddled and willfully we are back to Square One. individual in character, and not collec- misunderstood. There’s a reason for this, spelled out tive, it also irrationally asserted a lawful for me nearly four decades ago by my power to regulate the exercise of that In our own day and age, we have to old mentor, Robert LeFevre,. When you right in a manner that those who are live, every day, with historic insani- want to end any abuse, “aim at zero.” wise in the ways of history and human ties and injustices. Among them is the There’s always enough inertia in the nature understand threatens to negate fact that the crystal-clear language of system, people and institutions work- it altogether. the Constitution, especially of the Bill ing against you as hard as you’re work- I was discussing this with a lawyer of Rights, is routinely and deliberately ing against them, to assure that there’ll friend of mine when he pointed out muddled, willfully misunderstood, by be plenty more to do again tomorrow. something I already knew: that the those in power who stand to lose privi- The only real secret to the mysterious Supreme Court is the same body which, lege, prestige, and wealth if that docu- martial arts (and no, I’m not changing in 1856, used its almost superhuman ment–the highest law of the land–were the subject, here) is to aim past your real ability to defy and distort logic, in order ever to be properly enforced. goal. Never strike at your opponent’s to declare that a man named Dred Scott Ironically, some of those muddled face, strike the back of his head through was not a human being, but a piece of misunderstanders have based lucrative his face. If you desire Teflon and Velcro, meat, the property of a thin-blooded political careers on pretending that they set your sights on the Moon. Southern aristocrat who falsely believed want to correct those insanities and If what you want is freedom, you he had a right to own other people. It injustices. Sometimes the pretenders must eliminate everything that threat- may be irrelevant, but the same aristo- happen to be Democrats, sometimes ens it. The brutal and absurdly uncon- crat died in an insane asylum. they’re Republicans. But always the re- stitutional Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, It’s important to remember, in this sult is the same. Owing to all kinds of Firearms, and Explosives, for example, respect, that a vast majority of white “complications” that they somehow must be abolished. It has long since southerners did not practice slavery. “failed to anticipate” (but are more than demonstrated beyond the palest shad- They did not fight the War Between the willing to explain to you until you’re co- ow of a doubt that it cannot be reformed States to defend that “peculiar institu- matose with boredom or frustration) and that it will not be controlled. If you tion,” but to protect their homes and nothing ever really improves. continued on page 53 54 USCONCEALEDCARRY.COM n CONCEALED CARRY MAGAZINE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008 HORNADY TAP ® FPD The Best Ammo for the Worst Situation. Protecting your home and family requires ammunition that delivers pinpoint accuracy, lethal performance and unquestioned reliability. That’s exactly what you get from Hornady’s new TAP® For Personal Defense ammunition.

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