Sign is physical evidence of environmental disturbance by animals or humans. To find this sign is called cutting sign. Most of the time this is referred to as tracking. When tracking is thought of it is usually regarded as following footprints. Trained trackers look for more. He looks for kicked-over rocks, soil depressions, clothing fibers, changes in vegetation, changes in the environment, ambient noise or lack thereof. Basically, the tracker looks for the disturbance, the sign, left behind by the person or persons being tracked.
Cutting sign has been around for 100’s of years. It’s origins come from hunting animals. Here on our continent Native Americans perfected this skill in tracking both animals and people. Tracking has been used in more than hunting animals. Search and rescue use this skill to find those who are lost. It has been perfected in its use mostly by law enforcement, particularly the United States Border Patrol. It is still the most effective tool in gathering intelligence about peoples movement. Electronic tools are used but only to supplement this skill.
Cutting sign basic tips:
The best time of day to track is when the sun is low in the sky, which is usually morning or late afternoon. Tracking at night is not ideal but possible because the light source is controlled by the tracker. Sign cutting is performed while traveling perpendicularly to the direction of travel of the subject. This is an attempt to intersect the path of the subject when you are cutting sign, to avoid confusing the trail you are tracking with that of your own. Search for sign by using available light. Look in the direction of the light source for best results, regardless of what orientation of the light is to your body. Make the light work for you and not against you.
The application of some simple rules can make sign cutting easier and more effective.
o Use available light to your greatest advantage. Face the sun, when possible, and cut at a ninety degree angle to the direction of travel.
o Team members should space themselves several yards apart, but should stay in visual and vocal contact. A team of three trackers works best, One as Point and Two Flankers.
o Look behind you at frequent intervals, especially if the light is not optimum.
o You may only get one chance to see a print or sign when cutting sign. Take your time and don't miss anything. You may not get another try.
o Do Not allow unnecessary personnel in the area where sign is to be cut. Minimize the possibility of the production of confusing sign.
Sign cutting is performed quite differently than Step by Step tracking. Where Step by Step requires examination of a small area within one stride of the last track, sign cutting requires slow, careful visual sweep within a 2 or 3 stride area. Be careful, though, and let your eyes set the pace and not your feet.
The first place to start looking for sign would be where it is most likely to be found. That is, look where the person being sought spent enough time to leave good evidence. Also look where the person was most likely to have walked, and where track would be very easy to see.
Sign is most easily seen where the environment enhances what we seek. You may have noticed that tracks are easier to discover and identify when they are set in moist sand or firm, moist mud. If we identify areas such as these that allow easy sign cutting, we can use them to our benefit. These, and similar areas, are termed natural or man-made "Track Traps". Some examples of natural track traps are muddy areas, (especially firm mud), salt flats, fields of high grass, river or creek banks, steep embankments, and dusty roads. The following types of terrain are also considered natural track traps, but they each have their own special considerations:
Roads - Dusty roads can be excellent track traps, although vehicle traffic can destroy many tracks and much evidence in only a fraction of the time it took to leave them. Try to find out how much traffic has traveled the road in question since your subject passed by. Do not overlook the side paved roads. Traffic on paved roads tend to leave light dust that easily shows sign.
Sand - Trackers commonly make two errors when dealing with tracks in sand. Both can be prevented by understanding that sand tends to make fresh tracks seem old. Gravity makes soft sand smooth over sharp edges, causing fresh track to look old. The nature of soft sand also tends to make prints made from high traction foot wear appear older than prints made with smooth sole shoes. This is because the effects of wind and weather will age "Lumpy" tracks more quickly than smooth tracks. Also keep in mind that, in deep sand, track measurements can be as much as one-half inch shorter than the shoes that made them.
Game Trails - People tend to follow obvious game trails in the outdoors because they are easy to follow, generally clear of obstacles, and almost always lead to water. Pretty much the same reason animals use them. These trails are great to cut sign on because if a person traveled through the area, you can bet they used the trail. Also, the trails are covered with animal droppings which can be used as a portable track trap. The feces can show sign that the surrounding terrain can't.
Man Made - Some examples of man made track traps include plowed fields, dirt roads, firebreaks, construction sites, fences, or even a small area that was cleared purposely cleared to catch a good print of anyone passing (track trap). Fence may not necessarily produce terrain that is good for detecting sign, but if the fence had to be climbed over, under, or through, then plenty of sign would most certainly be produced on even the most difficult ground surfaces. If the fence is rusty, a scuff mark may be visible, and don't forget to look for cloth or human hair on a barbed-wire fence. Fences also tend to direct travel of individuals, particularly lost ones. A lost person may welcome finding anything straight to follow, and so follow a fence line for some time.
Other - There are other features that might also affect a person’s choice of route. For instance a person may follow a pipeline or utility line in order to reach civilization. Items such as towers, lights, and beacons can attract a lost person and there for effect their direction of travel. Mountain peaks or terrain features that are visible from far away might cause a person to follow a certain path. Any one of these "Route Modifiers" could be used very effectively to determine a direction of travel. When a direction of travel was assured, sign could be cut ahead, and sometimes far ahead, to expedite the tracking process.
There will be times when terrain and other features do not limit travel so very much, and you are attempting to track a marathon hiker. These are the times when Step by Step approach combined with sign cutting becomes the most important. Use the terrain and track traps to assist in finding sign, and always depend on the Step by Step method one track is started. The Step by Step trackers will serve as a compass, constantly indicating direction of travel, and, therefore indicating where sign should be cut.
The most important principle of sign cutting is to do it where sign is easy to see. To assure this, periodically and carefully test the route you are following by determining if you can see your own prints. If you can't, pick another area for cutting sign.
These are only the basics of sign cutting. To learn you should seek out someone with not only training but experience. The most common would be those in the Border Patrol. There are those in Search and Rescue that may have the same skills. Having a basic knowledge of this skill is handy for a variety of reasons in preparedness.
Remember the old tracking saying, “The sign never lies.”
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Thursday, February 4, 2016
Tuesday, February 2, 2016
A Round In The Chamber
Everyone who owns a gun or carries a gun has different thoughts about safety. Some believe that to be safe you must lock up guns. This is true but only to a certain point. When it comes to guns and children, keeping them safe is your primary concern. But as your children get older, I believe if they are trained and exposed to guns, the mystery is removed and a respect and safety ethic replaces curiosity. Safety is a perspective thing.
Remember this scene from the movie “Blackhawk Down”?
Steele: Sergeant, what's the meaning of this?
[Thinking he's talking about the unauthorized pig picking]
"Hoot": Just a little aerial target practice, sir. Didn't want to leave 'em behind.
Steele: I'm talking about your weapon, soldier. Now Delta or no-Delta, that's still a hot weapon. Your safety should be on at all times.
"Hoot": This is my safety, sir.
[He holds up his index finger and bends motions as if squeezing a trigger and then walks off]
Sanderson: Let it alone, sir. He hasn't eaten in a few days.
Guns do not shoot themselves. Contrary to Hollywood’s false impression modern guns don’t go off if you drop them. They only shoot when something presses the trigger.
The amount of people who don’t carry a weapon with a round in the chamber is simply astounding. In this article, I’m going to cover why you should carry a gun that is locked, cocked and ready to rock.
I want to say right now, that if you don’t carry with a round in the chamber, my goal is not to offend you. My goal is to help you realize something, so please read on.
As a rule of thumb, police officers are taught that an attacker (AKA a bad guy) can successfully make up enough distance to over power someone in under 21 feet. Why? Because the “average” attacker can usually make up 21 feet in less than 2 seconds. Some guys are even faster than that.
What this means, is that by the time you realize your life is in danger, your assailant is already upon you with a knife or other means of deadly force. Unfortunately for you and I, it also takes anywhere from .7-1.5 seconds for your body to react once it realizes that it is in danger. So, if you pull your gun from its holster and there isn’t a round in the chamber what are you going to do? If he is on you and you still need to chamber a round, you’re as good as dead.
In all actuality, what will likely happen is you’ll draw your weapon, and your attacker will either turn around and run like a dog with his tail tucked, or he’ll continue on in his pursuit regardless of the outcome. Why? Because that’s how criminals think.
The last thing any criminal wants is to get caught being, is a criminal. If one is bold enough to attack you, he is also bold enough to kill you. How do we know this? Ask a state correctional officer. They have had plenty of time to talk to the inmates and get a feeling for how they think.
More often than not, this attacker will be just a few feet from you, taking even less time for you to react appropriately. The only real way to mitigate the possibility of someone being successful in an attack, is to carry a handgun with a round in the chamber. That way, all you have to do is pull the gun from its holster, and press.
The reason for not carrying with a round in the chamber stems from inexperience and fear. Remember that I don’t mean to insult or offend anyone, these are just my opinions. I would hope you will take this information as it is meant to be given, to educate and inform.
Many people, even those who decide to own and carry a gun, are afraid of them.
Remember when you first started to drive? When another vehicle approached you from the opposite direction, you would hug the shoulder. That is somewhat how it is with a gun. Especially when you start to carry. Many people will touch their gun often when they start carrying to ensure the gun is still there. Learning how to handle and use a gun, then actually using it, will give you the confidence you need to not be afraid of it. The other problem is the media. Movies and TV teach false ideas about guns. Even those who carry guns for a living can be taught false ideas by media. I’ve heard stories of a policeman going into a hostile environment, getting shot in their vest, and falling to the ground, out of the fight. Even though they are really not out of the fight and very few bullets can actually knock someone down.
Lack of training is something that can cause an undue fear of guns. As I said before, the more experience you have with guns the more comfortable you are with them. Like driving a vehicle, you must develop muscle memory. You do this by practicing and training. You soon learn that the gun is not unsafe, but the shooter can be. Also, like driving, if you don’t follow safety rules you can get hurt.
What does this have to do with a round in the chamber? It means that when you are properly trained, practice safety and handling often, you too will have the confidence and see the logic in, carrying a gun with a round in the chamber.
Anyone who does not get training and does not practice will lose what they have learned by their limited training. Find a qualified instructor to take classes from. Notice how the word “Classes” is plural? One class will not take care of your training needs. You need to commit to training or practice. There is a lot that goes into buying and carrying a lethal weapon. It takes time and money as a commitment.
These are the rules that you should learn and be able to quote by heart.
Rule 1: ALL GUNS ARE ALWAYS LOADED
Rule 2: NEVER LET THE MUZZLE COVER (POINT AT) ANYTHING YOU ARE NOT WILLING TO DESTROY
Rule 3: KEEP YOUR FINGER OFF THE TRIGGER UNTIL YOUR SIGHTS ARE ON THE TARGET
Rule 4: BE SURE OF YOUR TARGET AND BEYOND
Being prepared with your gun can mean the difference between life or death. It takes only a little effort to find out whether you can be comfortable carrying with a round in the chamber. I do not think you will have the time and maybe the motor skills bring your weapon into battery.
Do whatever it takes to be comfortable, competent, and happy with your gun.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Remember this scene from the movie “Blackhawk Down”?
Steele: Sergeant, what's the meaning of this?
[Thinking he's talking about the unauthorized pig picking]
"Hoot": Just a little aerial target practice, sir. Didn't want to leave 'em behind.
Steele: I'm talking about your weapon, soldier. Now Delta or no-Delta, that's still a hot weapon. Your safety should be on at all times.
"Hoot": This is my safety, sir.
[He holds up his index finger and bends motions as if squeezing a trigger and then walks off]
Sanderson: Let it alone, sir. He hasn't eaten in a few days.
Guns do not shoot themselves. Contrary to Hollywood’s false impression modern guns don’t go off if you drop them. They only shoot when something presses the trigger.
The amount of people who don’t carry a weapon with a round in the chamber is simply astounding. In this article, I’m going to cover why you should carry a gun that is locked, cocked and ready to rock.
I want to say right now, that if you don’t carry with a round in the chamber, my goal is not to offend you. My goal is to help you realize something, so please read on.
As a rule of thumb, police officers are taught that an attacker (AKA a bad guy) can successfully make up enough distance to over power someone in under 21 feet. Why? Because the “average” attacker can usually make up 21 feet in less than 2 seconds. Some guys are even faster than that.
What this means, is that by the time you realize your life is in danger, your assailant is already upon you with a knife or other means of deadly force. Unfortunately for you and I, it also takes anywhere from .7-1.5 seconds for your body to react once it realizes that it is in danger. So, if you pull your gun from its holster and there isn’t a round in the chamber what are you going to do? If he is on you and you still need to chamber a round, you’re as good as dead.
In all actuality, what will likely happen is you’ll draw your weapon, and your attacker will either turn around and run like a dog with his tail tucked, or he’ll continue on in his pursuit regardless of the outcome. Why? Because that’s how criminals think.
The last thing any criminal wants is to get caught being, is a criminal. If one is bold enough to attack you, he is also bold enough to kill you. How do we know this? Ask a state correctional officer. They have had plenty of time to talk to the inmates and get a feeling for how they think.
More often than not, this attacker will be just a few feet from you, taking even less time for you to react appropriately. The only real way to mitigate the possibility of someone being successful in an attack, is to carry a handgun with a round in the chamber. That way, all you have to do is pull the gun from its holster, and press.
The reason for not carrying with a round in the chamber stems from inexperience and fear. Remember that I don’t mean to insult or offend anyone, these are just my opinions. I would hope you will take this information as it is meant to be given, to educate and inform.
Many people, even those who decide to own and carry a gun, are afraid of them.
Remember when you first started to drive? When another vehicle approached you from the opposite direction, you would hug the shoulder. That is somewhat how it is with a gun. Especially when you start to carry. Many people will touch their gun often when they start carrying to ensure the gun is still there. Learning how to handle and use a gun, then actually using it, will give you the confidence you need to not be afraid of it. The other problem is the media. Movies and TV teach false ideas about guns. Even those who carry guns for a living can be taught false ideas by media. I’ve heard stories of a policeman going into a hostile environment, getting shot in their vest, and falling to the ground, out of the fight. Even though they are really not out of the fight and very few bullets can actually knock someone down.
Lack of training is something that can cause an undue fear of guns. As I said before, the more experience you have with guns the more comfortable you are with them. Like driving a vehicle, you must develop muscle memory. You do this by practicing and training. You soon learn that the gun is not unsafe, but the shooter can be. Also, like driving, if you don’t follow safety rules you can get hurt.
What does this have to do with a round in the chamber? It means that when you are properly trained, practice safety and handling often, you too will have the confidence and see the logic in, carrying a gun with a round in the chamber.
Anyone who does not get training and does not practice will lose what they have learned by their limited training. Find a qualified instructor to take classes from. Notice how the word “Classes” is plural? One class will not take care of your training needs. You need to commit to training or practice. There is a lot that goes into buying and carrying a lethal weapon. It takes time and money as a commitment.
These are the rules that you should learn and be able to quote by heart.
Rule 1: ALL GUNS ARE ALWAYS LOADED
Rule 2: NEVER LET THE MUZZLE COVER (POINT AT) ANYTHING YOU ARE NOT WILLING TO DESTROY
Rule 3: KEEP YOUR FINGER OFF THE TRIGGER UNTIL YOUR SIGHTS ARE ON THE TARGET
Rule 4: BE SURE OF YOUR TARGET AND BEYOND
Being prepared with your gun can mean the difference between life or death. It takes only a little effort to find out whether you can be comfortable carrying with a round in the chamber. I do not think you will have the time and maybe the motor skills bring your weapon into battery.
Do whatever it takes to be comfortable, competent, and happy with your gun.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Friday, January 29, 2016
Active Shooter Plans
Day before yesterday I was following a story that I think was being ignored by mainstream media (msm). Maybe they had foresight that I did not because it turned out to not be an issue. The Naval Medical Center in San Diego, California had a real world active shooter event. They locked down the hospital and some schools near the large medical facility. I thought it was going to start again. I am so grateful the alert was not necessary. There was no shooter but someone reported that they heard shots. I’m assuming it was something that sounded like gunfire. I tell you this, recognizing real gunfire is a skill that should be worked on. Exposure to the real deal will help when something else makes sounds that sound like gun shots.
The alert is typical of a federal installation, “Run, Hide, Fight!” I’m actually amazed a government facility ever says anything about fighting. Usually the powers that be are scared of their own shadows and they advise everything BUT fighting. So maybe that is progress. I have mixed feelings about that RHF advice. So how would you have handled this situation? I happen to work on a federal installation and I think about this a lot.
My answer would depend on who was with me. My wife, my kids, or certain friends would change my answer. Most of the time if I was with someone I would just try to get out. If I was alone I think I would try to get out. If I couldn’t get out I would not hide. I guess it depends on what you call fortifying my position, finding an improvised weapon or securing my own pre-positioned weapon. If that is hiding then so be it. I cannot see myself hiding. Hiding to me is cowering behind a chair. I would prefer to not fight, but I would prepare to fight. If you decide to fight what is your general plan? Do you know where real cover is in the building where you work? What improvised weapons do you see or handle every day?
Weapons can be almost anything. I carry a tactical pen and a knife everywhere. I carry a gun almost everywhere. What about a sock with a bar of soap or maybe with batteries in it. The more the merrier. If everyone you are with does this you will have a formidable force. Even a shirt or coat tied and filled with a stapler or batteries in it would do. I also carry a tac light that could be used as a kubaton.
A fire extinguisher can be a wonderful weapon. Make sure the extinguisher is small enough for this. If it’s too heavy you won’t be able to hit someone with it. Spraying an attacker with it and then using it for blunt force trauma is a good idea.
As a group you could decide to just mob the terrorist. Swarming them will change their OODA Loop and throw them off with enough time for a mob to knock them down and overpower them. If you feel this might be your choice make sure you come from different angles to keep the attacker off guard. Don’t underestimate yelling and screaming. Surprise is a great tool. Speed and enough violence to injure the attacker so that you can injure them again and finally take them out of the fight, neutralize the threat.
Broom handles can be a wonderful weapon. If you think this may be in your future training with a staff is important. Aiming for the neck, or other vulnerable targets would be enough to save yourself or others.
Deciding to RHF is a choice you must make. Everyone is different and has different skills and abilities. No two answers to the “fight” questions would be the same. The point of this article is for you to think about scenarios and what you would do. Plan a little. Think about these questions and look at what resources you have at home, school, or work.
Active shooters can happen almost anywhere. If it is your home it is an invasion. But schools and work are considered active shooters. Now is the time to prepare not after you get the “Run, Hide, Fight” warning. Plan and prepare.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
The alert is typical of a federal installation, “Run, Hide, Fight!” I’m actually amazed a government facility ever says anything about fighting. Usually the powers that be are scared of their own shadows and they advise everything BUT fighting. So maybe that is progress. I have mixed feelings about that RHF advice. So how would you have handled this situation? I happen to work on a federal installation and I think about this a lot.
My answer would depend on who was with me. My wife, my kids, or certain friends would change my answer. Most of the time if I was with someone I would just try to get out. If I was alone I think I would try to get out. If I couldn’t get out I would not hide. I guess it depends on what you call fortifying my position, finding an improvised weapon or securing my own pre-positioned weapon. If that is hiding then so be it. I cannot see myself hiding. Hiding to me is cowering behind a chair. I would prefer to not fight, but I would prepare to fight. If you decide to fight what is your general plan? Do you know where real cover is in the building where you work? What improvised weapons do you see or handle every day?
Weapons can be almost anything. I carry a tactical pen and a knife everywhere. I carry a gun almost everywhere. What about a sock with a bar of soap or maybe with batteries in it. The more the merrier. If everyone you are with does this you will have a formidable force. Even a shirt or coat tied and filled with a stapler or batteries in it would do. I also carry a tac light that could be used as a kubaton.
A fire extinguisher can be a wonderful weapon. Make sure the extinguisher is small enough for this. If it’s too heavy you won’t be able to hit someone with it. Spraying an attacker with it and then using it for blunt force trauma is a good idea.
As a group you could decide to just mob the terrorist. Swarming them will change their OODA Loop and throw them off with enough time for a mob to knock them down and overpower them. If you feel this might be your choice make sure you come from different angles to keep the attacker off guard. Don’t underestimate yelling and screaming. Surprise is a great tool. Speed and enough violence to injure the attacker so that you can injure them again and finally take them out of the fight, neutralize the threat.
Broom handles can be a wonderful weapon. If you think this may be in your future training with a staff is important. Aiming for the neck, or other vulnerable targets would be enough to save yourself or others.
Deciding to RHF is a choice you must make. Everyone is different and has different skills and abilities. No two answers to the “fight” questions would be the same. The point of this article is for you to think about scenarios and what you would do. Plan a little. Think about these questions and look at what resources you have at home, school, or work.
Active shooters can happen almost anywhere. If it is your home it is an invasion. But schools and work are considered active shooters. Now is the time to prepare not after you get the “Run, Hide, Fight” warning. Plan and prepare.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Thursday, January 28, 2016
Call Signs
Call signs are things that just happen. Some have tried to give themselves a call sign but that usually does not work. How do you receive a call sign? Do something stupid or have it fit with your last name. Obvious examples, 'Crash' or LT 'Cheese' Kraft. Sometimes it's based on a physical appearance thing like 'Carrot'. After you've earned the respect of your buddies, you'll get a more 'heroic' callsign.
Here are some funny ones.
"Fisher" Price
"Curtains" - First female B-1 crewmember, required reinstallation of toliet privacy curtains
Easter "Bunny"
"Cuddles" Caudell
"Huggy" Huggans
"CJ" - Continuous Jam on the radio (bad comm discipline)
Causai "Moto"
"D-Day"
"DD" - Dead Dave - Was actually clinically dead during water training accident...recovered of course
"Crash"
"Thor"
"Slo Mo"
"Random" - Under stress tended to mix up call sign numbers on radio
"Kitten"
"Thorton" melon
"Baja" - Went 'off roading' in an F-15 at the end of the runway
"Robo"
"Chemo" - yep, looks like a chemo therapy patient
Cinamon "Toast"
These are the three rules of Callsigns
1. If you don't already have one, you will be assigned one by your "buddies".
2. You probably won't like it.
3. If you complain and moan too much about 1. and 2., you'll get a new nickname you'll like even less!
My call sign is Burning Bush. I don’t mind it actually. Would you want to be called a manifestation of God? It had nothing to do with me being like God. I was in LDS Seminary growing up and the year we were studying the Old Testament I had frizzy, red hair. A red afro. Someone looked at me and said “Burning Bush!” It stuck through the rest of the year. I was actually asked in jump school for a call sign. They had given us a choice. I noticed that even when someone chose a call sign they were “over ruled” by others who thought they should be called something else. In the military I did not have a big afro anymore, but my short military haircut still looked like a small burning bush. It seemed to stick. So that is what I go by when I need an “alias”.
What would your Call Sign be?
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Here are some funny ones.
"Fisher" Price
"Curtains" - First female B-1 crewmember, required reinstallation of toliet privacy curtains
Easter "Bunny"
"Cuddles" Caudell
"Huggy" Huggans
"CJ" - Continuous Jam on the radio (bad comm discipline)
Causai "Moto"
"D-Day"
"DD" - Dead Dave - Was actually clinically dead during water training accident...recovered of course
"Crash"
"Thor"
"Slo Mo"
"Random" - Under stress tended to mix up call sign numbers on radio
"Kitten"
"Thorton" melon
"Baja" - Went 'off roading' in an F-15 at the end of the runway
"Robo"
"Chemo" - yep, looks like a chemo therapy patient
Cinamon "Toast"
These are the three rules of Callsigns
1. If you don't already have one, you will be assigned one by your "buddies".
2. You probably won't like it.
3. If you complain and moan too much about 1. and 2., you'll get a new nickname you'll like even less!
My call sign is Burning Bush. I don’t mind it actually. Would you want to be called a manifestation of God? It had nothing to do with me being like God. I was in LDS Seminary growing up and the year we were studying the Old Testament I had frizzy, red hair. A red afro. Someone looked at me and said “Burning Bush!” It stuck through the rest of the year. I was actually asked in jump school for a call sign. They had given us a choice. I noticed that even when someone chose a call sign they were “over ruled” by others who thought they should be called something else. In the military I did not have a big afro anymore, but my short military haircut still looked like a small burning bush. It seemed to stick. So that is what I go by when I need an “alias”.
What would your Call Sign be?
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
LDS Gunsite Turns 2!
January 27 marks 2 years of writing this blog. When I first started this in 2014 I was just looking for an outlet for my ideas and my expression. I felt like I had a lot of experience in certain areas and a lot to share. I also feel I have a lot to learn and actually meant for this blog to be interactive. It has not been very interactive but I don’t have a big problem with that. When I look at blogs and websites I don’t do a lot of “interaction” myself. Just the fact that in those 2 years there have been over 10,000 views keeps me going.
I know that the idea of this site, LDS Gunsite, is a little crazy. I am LDS or Mormon. I have been all my life. I grew up in Arizona but no longer live there. I also served in the military which was a great experience. I still work on a federal installation as a contractor. I am vague about myself because I feel that privacy should be more prevalent in our lives, and possibly a little paranoia is mixed in there. As an LDS member guns are not usually equated with religion. But I feel guns, security, safety, and preparedness have a definite connection. Plus the Church has a history with guns and self-defense. There are many aspects of LDS history that are connected to guns from John Browning to the Mormon Battalion to Porter Rockwell. I embrace that connection and try to help anyone who reads this blog to improve their, and their families, self-defense. It has been a fun two years.
If you want to see an article, a series of articles, or a page about a particular topic please let me know. I’m also always looking for someone who might want to share their ideas and experience with guns, self-defense, and preparedness. You do not need extensive experience with these topics and you do not need to be a member of the LDS Church. But you must be willing to share. Please let me know. Comment or e-mail me.
I’m not sure how long I will do this. I think 5 years would be a good goal to see if things will improve and I run out of ideas. Only the future knows.
It’s been a great time sharing with you dear readers. I hope to hear from you but if not, thank you for your interest.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
I know that the idea of this site, LDS Gunsite, is a little crazy. I am LDS or Mormon. I have been all my life. I grew up in Arizona but no longer live there. I also served in the military which was a great experience. I still work on a federal installation as a contractor. I am vague about myself because I feel that privacy should be more prevalent in our lives, and possibly a little paranoia is mixed in there. As an LDS member guns are not usually equated with religion. But I feel guns, security, safety, and preparedness have a definite connection. Plus the Church has a history with guns and self-defense. There are many aspects of LDS history that are connected to guns from John Browning to the Mormon Battalion to Porter Rockwell. I embrace that connection and try to help anyone who reads this blog to improve their, and their families, self-defense. It has been a fun two years.
If you want to see an article, a series of articles, or a page about a particular topic please let me know. I’m also always looking for someone who might want to share their ideas and experience with guns, self-defense, and preparedness. You do not need extensive experience with these topics and you do not need to be a member of the LDS Church. But you must be willing to share. Please let me know. Comment or e-mail me.
I’m not sure how long I will do this. I think 5 years would be a good goal to see if things will improve and I run out of ideas. Only the future knows.
It’s been a great time sharing with you dear readers. I hope to hear from you but if not, thank you for your interest.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
Terrorism Can Happen Here: Prepare
I watched an entire video of terrorist training the other day. You tube has many short 3 to 10 minute clips. This one was 35 minutes. It was a training camp in Syria (no surprise) and was run by ISIS (another no surprise). But I feel we can learn a lot from these training videos. This particular link was sent to me by an FBI analyst in Quantico.
From the looks of these videos we as regular citizens need to change our attitude about the threats that we face in this country. We will always have criminals and crime that we need to prepare for, but now it is the rise of an organized, trained, and well-armed team we must prepare for. A team that is bent on killing and not afraid to die themselves. Most of their goals are just murder and terror. Many criminals will shrink from even the sight of a defensive weapon leave alone someone shooting at them. These Muslim extremists (yes I said it!) are zealots who want to die for what they perceive is their cause. By the way, make no mistake, they are Muslim extremists. That does not mean that all Muslims are dangerous or terrorists, but only that most terrorists in the world today are Muslim. In World War Two we did not fight the “War on War”, we fought the war on Nazi Germany. While not all Germans were Nazis, we still had to fight Germany to defeat the Nazis. Not all Muslims are terrorists but nearly all terrorists in the world today are Muslim. So it stands to reason that we have to fight Muslims to defeat terror. But I digress…
So this means that it is time to ensure the gear you carry (EDC and otherwise) meets that challenge. If that means switching primary guns from an 8 round single stack to a 17 round double stack for more rounds then maybe that’s a good start. I have always carried a spare magazine but now have wondered if I should go further. I also think where you live makes a big difference. I live in the country outside of a small town. I don’t worry too much about a terrorist attack because the body count would probably not meet the terrorist needs. I’m not saying it can’t happen here, I’m just saying it is unlikely.
I have added some magazines and a box of ammo to my vehicle. If I lived in a large metropolitan area I may consider a battle rifle and a TAC vest in my vehicle. This is something you must decide for yourself. Always consider the problem of storing a weapon in your vehicle considering safety and risk of it being stolen.
I have always said the going to a range, standing up in front of a paper target in perfect stance and squeezing off several rounds, is not really training for reality. Shooting in many different positions and cover, drawing from many positions, combat reloads (even though most civilian confrontations do not require a reload) and shooting a moving target is more real than what we are used to.
Situational awareness and “moving off the X” or changing the OODA loop is also something that needs to be addressed. Knowing what is going on in a large crowd, such as big concerts or sporting events, is very important. Recognizing the sound of gunfire is something that many people should learn about. Do you know the difference between a firecracker, and handgun round or a rifle round? If you are around it much you start to know the difference and even the sound of an AK from an AR. Identifying shots fired and from what direction should be learned.
Exit awareness and what might constitute cover also may be something practiced. Most large groups like concerts and sporting events are free fire zones. You usually cannot be legally armed at these events so what would you do? A tentative plan of action to get yourself and your loved ones out of harm’s way and not trampled in a panicked crowd is a real thing. Having a plan is not paranoid but prepared.
Your gear should reflect what you consider a real threat. How you will deploy those items and when is also a consideration. Remember how you would look to a SWAT team member going through a parking lot with an OD green vest on and holding a “evil black” rifle. Those are real considerations you must face.
Informing your family of your plans may give you some “eye rolling” but you should inform those with you your plans so they too can act accordingly. It would be horrible in a real world terrorist event if most of your family is following you to an exit and one person goes a different direction.
Restaurants can also be a magnet for terrorist activity so know exit location and choose your table well.
Now is the time to consider these things. Do not delay. Assess your situation, your gear, your training, and that of your loved ones. What scenarios should you prepare for and how do you need to train? Where are you lacking? This is the time to take this seriously and prepare your gear and train.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
From the looks of these videos we as regular citizens need to change our attitude about the threats that we face in this country. We will always have criminals and crime that we need to prepare for, but now it is the rise of an organized, trained, and well-armed team we must prepare for. A team that is bent on killing and not afraid to die themselves. Most of their goals are just murder and terror. Many criminals will shrink from even the sight of a defensive weapon leave alone someone shooting at them. These Muslim extremists (yes I said it!) are zealots who want to die for what they perceive is their cause. By the way, make no mistake, they are Muslim extremists. That does not mean that all Muslims are dangerous or terrorists, but only that most terrorists in the world today are Muslim. In World War Two we did not fight the “War on War”, we fought the war on Nazi Germany. While not all Germans were Nazis, we still had to fight Germany to defeat the Nazis. Not all Muslims are terrorists but nearly all terrorists in the world today are Muslim. So it stands to reason that we have to fight Muslims to defeat terror. But I digress…
So this means that it is time to ensure the gear you carry (EDC and otherwise) meets that challenge. If that means switching primary guns from an 8 round single stack to a 17 round double stack for more rounds then maybe that’s a good start. I have always carried a spare magazine but now have wondered if I should go further. I also think where you live makes a big difference. I live in the country outside of a small town. I don’t worry too much about a terrorist attack because the body count would probably not meet the terrorist needs. I’m not saying it can’t happen here, I’m just saying it is unlikely.
I have added some magazines and a box of ammo to my vehicle. If I lived in a large metropolitan area I may consider a battle rifle and a TAC vest in my vehicle. This is something you must decide for yourself. Always consider the problem of storing a weapon in your vehicle considering safety and risk of it being stolen.
I have always said the going to a range, standing up in front of a paper target in perfect stance and squeezing off several rounds, is not really training for reality. Shooting in many different positions and cover, drawing from many positions, combat reloads (even though most civilian confrontations do not require a reload) and shooting a moving target is more real than what we are used to.
Situational awareness and “moving off the X” or changing the OODA loop is also something that needs to be addressed. Knowing what is going on in a large crowd, such as big concerts or sporting events, is very important. Recognizing the sound of gunfire is something that many people should learn about. Do you know the difference between a firecracker, and handgun round or a rifle round? If you are around it much you start to know the difference and even the sound of an AK from an AR. Identifying shots fired and from what direction should be learned.
Exit awareness and what might constitute cover also may be something practiced. Most large groups like concerts and sporting events are free fire zones. You usually cannot be legally armed at these events so what would you do? A tentative plan of action to get yourself and your loved ones out of harm’s way and not trampled in a panicked crowd is a real thing. Having a plan is not paranoid but prepared.
Your gear should reflect what you consider a real threat. How you will deploy those items and when is also a consideration. Remember how you would look to a SWAT team member going through a parking lot with an OD green vest on and holding a “evil black” rifle. Those are real considerations you must face.
Informing your family of your plans may give you some “eye rolling” but you should inform those with you your plans so they too can act accordingly. It would be horrible in a real world terrorist event if most of your family is following you to an exit and one person goes a different direction.
Restaurants can also be a magnet for terrorist activity so know exit location and choose your table well.
Now is the time to consider these things. Do not delay. Assess your situation, your gear, your training, and that of your loved ones. What scenarios should you prepare for and how do you need to train? Where are you lacking? This is the time to take this seriously and prepare your gear and train.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
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