Building Your Bug Out Bag Introduction from May 6, 2024

This is a repost from 5/6/2024.  This has been on my mind lately with wildfires being a reason you may have to evacuate.  But there are many other reasons.  

Go Bags AKA: GOOD get-out-of-Dodge bag, battle box, BOB bug-out-bag, PERK personal-emergency- relocation-kit, 72 hour kit, QRB quick-run-bag, Grab bag, Bail out bag, AA@ bag, which refers to a military series of bags that a member is deployed with, A, B, and C. The AA@ bag is individual equipment and clothing bag.  The one that would get you in the most trouble!

I just had a few hours to kill so I went to the first 50 sites (5 pages worth) of a Google search of “72 Hour Kits”. There were “About 89,700,000 results (0.31 seconds)!” WOW! I have been working on our personal preparedness for almost 30 years and I thought I could still learn something. I learned that if I was a complete novice at this I would be in trouble! Not only have we worked on a bug out bag for our family for many years, but I feel my experience in the military was a great plus to this preparedness. After looking at these sites I just want to throw in the towel! Sometimes going to the internet for information is like going into the jungle, I never know what’s going to happen and I’m real scared. There is too much and too many differing opinions out there and everyone, (including me!) wants to post their ideas or sell their product.

The first 10 or 15 sites were devoted to selling me “the most comprehensive 72 kit you could ever own.” That was actually a statement made about a kit I thought was pretty weak. Amazon has 771 pages under 72 hour kits. Now I understand the retail world. It’s about selling a product. I must admit, most of the kits I looked at were pretty good, not perfect for me, but pretty good. Most were very similar so if you’re looking to buy a readymade kit, find the ideal ingredients that the retail world can offer, and then find the price that fits that list. I would not be caught with a store bought kit. That would not work for me. They are way too generic and I don’t think I’ve seen one that addresses security. I understand the reason; I don’t think I’d want that kind of liability in my product either. But, I’ve yet to see a company back up their product and show the results of using that product. I did see some products that I felt had some quality items, not anything flimsy or cheap. That was refreshing. None of the over 100 kits I looked at approached the first aid kit with much more than a cursory effort. I believe there are very few commercial first aid kits that are worth very much. I know that the commercial world is not going to put in certain items because that would tell the customer that “You too can put in an IV at home!” The liability is horrible and I can imagine the lawsuits over an item as simple as a suture. But it would happen. So, I can understand the challenge of putting together a first aid kit or a 72 hour kit that will work, and also “not get us sued!” But how much of a disservice is it to give someone a kit that is called a “survival” type kit which actually won’t do much for you or others with a real injury? Four aspirin and 25 band-aids and a roll of gauze are hardly a first aid kit for anyone with even a limited training. The same goes for 72 hour kits that only assume you’re not only an idiot, but an untrained, uneducated idiot! I wish some company would put out a kit that would be better based in reality and would also advise where to seek training and give some real world advice on how to use their kit, and how to improve it. I don’t think that will happen business being what it is. Some companies have blogs and articles connected to their products that I see as an attempt to train and educate. But I know you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink. Many Americans are spoiled and want to be prepared, but don’t want to pay the price for that preparedness. What might that price be? The price of both money and especially time.

“OK Burn, now that you’ve whined to us about the problems of the internet in buying a 72 hour kit or gaining information, what is your solution?” Well, dear reader, I’m glad you asked. Actually I go to the internet for information all the time. In fact, this blog is actually an attempt at some kind of sanity in the area of preparedness, though it too will probably fall short. But hopefully our ideas will spark some ideas of your own. In 1984 I was on a mobility team in the military. This was a team of 15 or so members that could be deployed at a moment’s notice to anywhere in the world to perform our particular operation. This meant always being prepared and practicing what to do if the deployment was “real world”. I had several bags that were inspected constantly and by regulation had to have certain items in them. If I was missing a specific item, I was advised that I may not deploy and could be reprimanded. The military liked to use fear to get you to act appropriately. After those specific items I could include almost anything I wanted short of some unauthorized items. I had being ready down to a science. Now, as a civilian I don’t have to worry about my “A” bag being inspected, I am my own inspector. That can be good and bad. Without a consequence, most humans tend to relax their standards. Unless discipline is employed, disaster can result. Once you get your go bag together, do not take anything out unless you have an emergency of course. Camping is not an emergency by the way. Whatever you may use from your kit while testing it must be replaced unless it is going to be removed permanently. You must be strict with yourself because your life may depend on it. As you start this go bag journey, do your homework. Look at several places you feel you can trust. Ask someone who is “5 by 5 and mission ready*”(someone who knows) and they can help you. Please don’t trust only one source. As I’ve emphasized before, find a list you can live with and customize it. Add to, or take away from it. Then practice with those items and test them. I’ve done this for years with camping equipment too. Sometimes you’re surprised at an item you thought was junk, but turned out to be great in the field. Camping is a good way to test your kit. If you don’t want to camp (some people don’t), then test it in your back yard. Your neighbors will love it!

Most of what I saw of lists was on government or school sites. These lack, in my opinion, a reality check. But some may be a good place to start. I think it’s amazing that the best lists I saw were on “zombie” sites. Zombie sites refer to a pop culture idea that somehow after a pandemic or other disaster zombies come out in droves to chase and attack non-zombies. I always wondered why they don’t feed on each other? Anyway, these zombies have created a culture of preppers that are quite grounded in “reality”, believe it or not. Aside from the fictional reason to be prepared (zombies), the preparedness that these sites and groups advocate is pretty reality based. Even a government agency (the Center for Disease Control) have adopted a “zombie” attitude. They use the zombie culture to try and get people better prepared. Please use common sense in this preparation. I’ve mentioned SWB (size, weight, bulk) in other blogs. To me it is very important. I can’t tell you the times as a Scoutmaster that I took my Troop on a backpacking trip and watched boys empty their backpacks on the trail to “pick it up on the way down.” They thought they could handle a 50 pound pack for 5 miles each day for 3 days. That was also the reason we had shorter hikes before the big one and encouraged the boys to pack the same thing they would take on the longer hike. This way you get some operational intell on what will work and what will not. Do not try a long hike with your go bag. Start small and work your way up. You will find yourself talking in terms of ounces when preparing your kit. Every ounce counts and will add up quickly. Don’t be fooled by what you “think” you can handle.

If you haven’t started a kit I challenge you to do it. Do it now! Get up from the computer and find a couple of items you think would be handy. Put them in a box or even a Wal-mart bag and put it in a place that you think you will eventually put a go bag. A closet near a door would be good. Do it now, we’ll wait.

I hope you actually did it and that you continue to do it on a monthly, weekly, or daily schedule until you think it’s ready for a test. Making a goal is important. A small budget is part of that plan. Training is part of that plan. This is a journey but you must take that first step to see any progress. You know I don’t like to gamble. But I sure would like to win the lottery. Think I could win without playing? Probably not. By the same token, you can’t become prepared without action. Set attainable goals and then put a plan on paper. A goal not written is only a wish. Always remember that skills trump gear every time. Get training.

After a goal and a commitment the only thing left is to work the plan. Being prepared is a lifelong pursuit. Being able to leave quickly is an important part of that preparedness.

 

Semper Paratus

Check 6

Burn

 

*Five by five and mission ready refers to an old military term. In voice procedure (the techniques used to facilitate spoken communication over two-way radios) a station may request a report on the quality and strength of signal they are broadcasting. In the military of the NATO countries, and other organizations, the signal quality is reported on two scales; the first is for signal strength, and the second for signal clarity. Both these scales range from one to five, where one is the worst and five is the best. The listening station reports these numbers separated with the word "by". Five by five therefore means a signal that has excellent strength and perfect clarity — the most understandable signal possible. Five by five by extension has come to mean "I understand you perfectly" in situations other than radio communication, the way Loud and Clear entered slang, post- WW2. “5 by 5” is the opposite of “broken and stupid”.

 

Protecting Our Way of Life

Every Memorial Day I hear from about 8 guys.  These 8 inform me about how they are doing mentally, physically, and spiritually.  They also offer connection with several others, additionally about their status.  By the end of the day, I have a pretty good picture of about the 27 survivors of grid 4143 in Panama. 30 survived, 27 are left.  Last Memorial Day (2026) was no different and I had plenty of accounts.  As this group gets older there are stories of medical issues but for the most part all are doing well physically.  Mentally, there are only a few who aren’t affected as much as the majority.  There are several levels of PTSD because several of those 27 stayed in dangerous jobs.

But in communicating with one particular guy, I learned some interesting facts about our Panamanian vacation.

Jason “Jujubee” Davis (WIA)-6 years Air Force, Career PMC, Blackwater, MVM, and G4S.  Jason is an interesting guy.  He is quiet but intense.  Jason worked in intelligence in the Air Force and then had a career in government contract work.  He is from South Carolina and joined the military to get out of his small town, and the gigantic lumber mill that his entire family had worked for 3 generations.  He worked for 3 different PMC’s (private military contractor). 2 U.S. companies and a British company.

Juju was connected to, deployed with, and had even worked for (double dipped occasionally) the “Company” or the C.I.A.

He was over-the-top patriotic and did not play well with someone who was not.  He is a great proponent of freedom and standing up for the right.

I checked on his health, mental and physical, and he mentioned Panama and our central American vacation.  He mentioned how intelligence failed us in our adventure.  In 1987 and 1988 there were several incidents that would have pointed to a larger conflict that we experienced.  He also mentioned that intel knew we were going into an ambush.  The reason it was not such a devastating, overwhelming battle was the underestimation of the timing, and ferocity of our defense. They knew we were going to be surprised and estimated there would be an 80% loss and 20% capture rate.  They knew who they were sending and what training and experience was there and that there were only 34 of us.  They did not count on us being as good as we were.  They also didn’t count on the PDF being as bad as they were. He said the report gave specific details about the PDF.  There were 282 PDF troops including commanders.  They outnumbered us 8 to 1.  They had 1 50 caliber jeep mounted gun.  They had 1 120 mm mortar.  AK’s and Star and Taurus pistols. Several Soviet RPGs.   According to Juju’s contacts, the Army had the intel from the CIA but did not share it with the Air Force.  Once we were engaged, the Army told the Air Force what was supposed to happen.  The Army did authorize air support though they didn’t think they would need to provide it.  They thought we would not last the initial ambush and that we wouldn’t have enough time before being overrun to ask for support or exfil.  We did have the time, so they gave us Apache’s.  Had the weather cooperated, we would have been out of there pretty early in the fight.  Had we stayed longer than we did, we would have lost more guys.  Apparently, the government wanted to use this incident, us getting killed and captured, to further their plans to invade Panama and grab Noriega.  We were human fodder to carry out the plans of others.

I don’t know if I should be angry or offended.  I think I’ll just chalk this up to government garbage and not take it personally.  I can understand nut jobs that blow up buildings or shoot up government facilities.  I said I understood, not condoned.  The feeling of betrayal from the country you swear to protect is palpable.  I can see where the acts of well-meaning or evil men would spiral someone into anger and hate.  It doesn’t change the fact that I took an oath to support presidents, corrupt or otherwise, and allegiance to a country that allows me and my family freedoms very few in this world get.  If not for a superior force and great training the 27 of us who are left from the original 34 may not be here.  Many of us went on to serve this country with great honor.  Regardless of the plans of evil men, we were able to overcome their plans and continue on.  Most of those involved thrived in their lives with families, jobs, and living the American Dream.  I believe that being treated this way would have been disastrous in a lesser country than the United States of America.

Why do I tell this story?  It is a commentary on the crazy idea and experiment we call the United States of America.  I can say with a level of assuredness that the great freedoms that we enjoy in this country also gives evil people opportunities to do corrupting things to elevate their power or bank account.  I could be bitter about my experience.  I am sad about the loss of life on both sides.  But when you sign up to serve, you risk the chance that you may have to give your life.  You don’t ask why, that’s a question for others to ask.  I don’t like the idea of someone giving their life for an unjust cause.  But the guys we lost were helping their brothers to get home in one piece.  It may have been a waste, all war is a waste, but they did not die in vain.  They died for me.  And for you.

My point is, there are many instances where those who have sworn to do difficult and dangerous jobs, military, first responders, and others, give the ultimate sacrifice for those whom they serve.  Please remember this and know that this country is worth it.  Maybe not always our government is worthy, but the idea of this country is well worth it.  Many in this country don’t appreciate what they have or think other ideas or ideologies may be better.  I do not agree.  I’ve been to several other countries and have seen other ways to govern.  We have the best the world has to offer.  It is not perfect and with great freedom comes more risk of corruption and activities that are not lawful or good for people or the country.  I fought for the freedom that others have to promote ideas I may not agree with.  Let everyone be on notice: You can bring other ideas and ways you feel this country should be changed but know that people like me will fight you (legally not physically) to protect what we have and the freedoms we feel are gifts from God as did the founding fathers.  One particular thing that threatens our freedom is Sharia law.  This is something that I feel is a direct threat to our freedom and way of life.  

Learn what others are trying to propose and push that undermines our laws and country.  Fight against it legally and lawfully.  They exist and should be defeated.  Please be aware and active in safeguarding this country that I risked my life to protect.

Semper Paratus

Check 6

Burn 

 

Training Value #6-Competition

Training Value 6-Competition

In competition there are several points that can help with your training.

Safe Gun Handling Becomes Second Nature

In competitive shooting, safety isn’t just a rule, it’s a culture. Under the constant supervision of a Range Officer (RO), every shooter is held to the highest safety standards. Only one person handles a loaded firearm at a time, and any lapse in safety results in an immediate disqualification. It’s a high-stakes lesson, and it sticks. You quickly learn to treat your firearm with unwavering respect, and the accountability of your shooting peers reinforces those habits. These safety skills don’t stay on the range; they follow you everywhere you carry.

You’ll Truly Know Your Gun and Gear

Competitive shooting forces you to live with your gear under pressure. You’ll learn exactly how your holster, magazines, and firearms perform when adrenaline’s high and every second counts. Even if you don’t compete with your carry gun, the insights you gain, like drawing technique, reload efficiency, and gear placement, translate directly to your daily setup. By the time you’ve run a few matches, your gear won’t just feel familiar, it’ll feel like an extension of you.

You’ll Build Speed Without Sacrificing Accuracy

Let’s be clear: accuracy is everything. You can’t stop a threat (or win a match) if you can’t hit your target. Competitive shooting teaches you to prioritize precision under pressure, while also pushing you to develop the speed needed for tasks like drawing and reloading. You’ll learn when to go fast with a quick sight picture and when to slow down for that crucial shot. Through competition, you don’t just learn your limits, you expand them.

You can Master Movement and Learn to Use Cover

Real gunfights are fluid, fast, and chaotic. Standing still isn’t an option. That’s where competitive shooting shines. Sports like IDPA and USPSA demand smart movement, the effective use of cover, and split-second decision-making. You’ll learn how to navigate angles, corners, and barriers in ways that mimic real-life threats. And while match props aren’t real cover, the skills you build, like using terrain to your advantage, are as real as it gets.

Your Mindset Will Sharpen and So Will Your Decisions

Competition creates pressure and pressure builds character. Every match puts you in a situation where you must analyze, plan, execute, and adjust. You’ll learn to think fast, adapt quickly, and stay calm under stress. While self-defense scenarios are more chaotic, the mindset you cultivate in competition — focused, prepared, and decisive — can give you a critical edge when the stakes are real. And knowing your moral and legal boundaries before a crisis hit gives you the clarity to act decisively when it does.

Trigger Time is Time Well Spent

There’s no shortcut to skill. Whether you’re training for competition or self-defense, you need time behind the trigger. Competitive shooting gives you that time, but with a structure that challenges you, pushes your limits, and holds you accountable. With every match, you become safer, faster, and more precise. It’s not just practice; it’s performance under pressure. And that’s where real growth happens!

Competition can make you better if you let it.

While competition won’t replace self-defense training, it will make you significantly more prepared. 

At first glance, the two may look similar. Both involve a firearm. Both require safety, accuracy, speed, and gun handling.

That surface similarity can mislead people.

Competition shooting tests performance under match conditions. Self-defense firearms training prepares the armed citizen for lawful survival during a violent encounter. Those are very different goals.

A competition shooter may become very skilled with a firearm. Many competitive shooters handle guns extremely well. Their practice can improve speed, accuracy, movement, transitions, and confidence under pressure.

However, winning a match does not automatically prepare a person for a criminal attack. Match pressure and life-or-death pressure do not create the same problem.

Likewise, a self-defense student should not ignore skill-building drills. Hard skills matter. The question is not whether competition has value. The question is whether competition training and self-defense training solve the same problem.

They do not.

In competition, rules control the match. Break a rule and you may receive a penalty, lose points, or get disqualified.

That can feel disappointing, but you still go home.

In self-defense, the rules are laws. Break those laws and the consequences can change your life forever.

You may survive the attack and still face arrest, prosecution, civil litigation, bankruptcy, or prison. That is why defensive firearms training must include the legal side of force.

A responsible armed citizen must understand that deadly force requires more than fear. The facts must support the decision.

In many self-defense discussions, instructors refer to factors such as ability, opportunity, intent, and preclusion. Those concepts help students think through whether a threat is immediate, serious, and unavoidable.

The law matters before the gun comes out. It matters while the gun is out. Most importantly, it still matters after the threat stops.

Competition can be helpful.

Semper Paratus

Check 6

Burn

 

First Aid, it’s what’s first!

This is a reposted article. September is National Preparedness month. It is a good time to look at your preparedness plan and add to, or take away from. Use this article as a starting point. 

Recently we have been putting together our kids’ go bags. These 2 kids are in college and living away from home. As we came to their first aid kits, we weren’t real sure what we needed to include. I have a YouTube channel that I follow. Nutnfancy is the guy that makes videos about outdoor adventure. He reviews guns, knives, and other gear. I highly recommend his channel and videos. His POU (philosophy of use) and mine match up nicely. He did a few videos specifically on first aid kits. First, he did a video describing an experience he had with a bad car wreck. From that experience he vowed to never be unprepared in the first aid area again. He does two other video series on "level 1" and "level 2" kits. The level 1 kit is a one-to-two-person kit. It is small and compact but covers the items that are needed. He focuses on blood stoppers but goes beyond what a store-bought kit would be. Store bought kits usually have a lot of band-aids and maybe some aspirin. In his videos he explains why he included each item. I am not going to go through a list but will touch on a few things I feel are important. Like a go bag or 72-hour kit, first aid is up to the individual. Usually, the items you would include will match your capabilities and training. If you have had training putting in an IV, you would probably want that in your kit. If you know how to suture, you will probably have a suture kit. Make sure you have training and experience with the procedures you are planning for. If you have no training, I would strongly suggest you start with a Red Cross course in first aid and CPR. Get trained and stay current. If you have a friend who is a doctor or Nurse, ask them for training. Don’t get too technical but it is good to know when and why you should do a procedure. Learn what can go wrong and how to correct or treat the problem. As was mentioned, the Red Cross is a good source of training. Also mentioned were friends who are Doctors or Nurses, EMTs. A Boy Scout Troop might be another source. There are many good books, websites, and videos. Be careful about self-education. Ensure you have good information by checking with a credible source to verify what you’ve learned is actually how it is. Another good YouTube channel that I like is PatriotNurse. She is very informative and does not get too technical. She teaches in layman’s terms and realizes everyone hasn’t had several years of college courses concerning medicine. Also, if you know someone in the military they receive a lot of training in first aid procedures. A combat medic can teach some things that a doctor would not know. Most Doctors have an office or hospital with equipment and other professionals at their disposal. A combat medic is usually alone and is taught on a level that you and I may experience. If you come upon a car wreck, you won’t have a full staff and facility to use in treating the injured. I would highly recommend courses that focus on field first aid.  EMT’s and combat medics, first responders if you will; in my opinion have the most practical experience for survival or emergency medicine. As I said above, most doctors and nurses have experience in a controlled environment. Now I’m not saying those professionals are not trained in this type of medicine, many are but many have little or no experience in this type of medicine.   

As you put together your kit think about experiences you’ve had with first aid and what you need. Then look at your skills and training and add those items. Then, think of what you think you may need in the future and add those items. Then get the proper training to support those possible future events. Remember that it’s always better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it. Ask those who know about their gear. Find out what professionals use and try to obtain the same items that they use. Buying in bulk is always cheaper. If you need 3X3 surgical pads, find a good price on the internet and buy a bulk amount. You will need them for other kits. We have a kit in every go bag, then one in each vehicle or "get home" bag. You may want one at your place of work or school. There will always be a use for certain bulk items.

Pick a container that can meet your needs. For me it would always be contingent on SWB (size, weight, bulk). Also, how functional is the case, or box? Can you get to everything quickly? Can you find most things in it by sight, or do you have to dump out the whole container first? Is it easy to carry? Are things clearly labeled so someone unfamiliar with the kit can use it quickly and efficiently? Is it easily accessed or hard to find?  All this and more should be considered when choosing a kit container.

First aid skills will generally not change although some procedures do change, such as CPR.  Become trained and practice on occasion.  This could be a family activity.  To make it real and more fun, employ makeup for real looking wounds.  Stick to the basics and don’t try to practice medicine.  This is first aid after all.  Think of first responders and their job.  That is what you become, the first one on the scene.

Recently I was with a Scout troop who were training in first aid from the Scout manual.  Most of what was taught is very valuable.  I told the boys that they just received more first aid training that night than most Americans ever receive.  There was one thing that bothered me though.  I know the Boy Scouts of America have a liability problem, but I felt every part of this first aid training ended in seeking medical help.  I am definitely an advocate of seeking competent medical help whenever possible, but I feel more training can make you more self-sufficient.  Build your skills and kits around the possibility that medical help will not be available.  Two e-books that come to mind are“Where there is no Doctor”, and “Where there is no Dentist”.  These are geared toward the possibility that no help is available.  They are free in digital form if you do a search.

First Aid skills are probably more important than first aid materials, because you can improvise if you have the knowledge.  So, get trained.  But with that training make sure you know how to use your equipment and materials in your first aid kit.  Be familiar with how to use these items so you won’t fumble with them when you have to use them.  After your training you get your kit together so you have the items that will make your knowledge applicable to the emergency you are responding to. 

Put together a list that fits with your skills.  Remember that others may have some skills you may not have.  Once you get a list, start putting together the items in your container of choice.  When I did this, I considered SWB (size, weight, bulk).  If your budget doesn’t allow buying products all at once, put it together a little at a time.  Maybe a few items a month.  Make sure you write all this down and set your goal.  Then keep track of your progress.  In no time at all you will see kits being built.  You may want to put temporary items in your kit until you can purchase what you really want.  Such as scissors.  Put in what you have until you get what you want.

This is truly a labor of love because these first aid kits may save the life of you or your loved ones one day.

 

Semper Paratus

 

Burn

 

Gun Cleaning: When and How Often?

 As an instructor, I’m often asked this question: "How often do guns need to be cleaned?" or "When do you clean your guns?"

The answer to these questions depends on a number of factors, including the type of gun you own, how often you use it, and the environment in which you use it and the ammo you use. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you determine how often you need to clean your guns.

We’ll discuss the importance of gun cleaning, the different factors that affect how often you need to clean your guns, and the best practices for cleaning your guns.  

Whether you’re a new gun owner or you’ve been shooting for years, read on to learn more about how often you should clean your guns.

Gun Type	How Often to Clean	Reason
Handgun	After every use	To prevent rust and keep the gun in good working order
Rifle	After every 50 rounds	To prevent carbon build-up and keep the gun in good working order
Shotgun	After every 100 rounds	To prevent rust and keep the gun in good working order

 

Factors to Consider When Determining How Often to Clean a Gun

There are factors to consider when determining how often to clean a gun. These are:

• Type of gun: The type of gun you have will affect how often it needs to be cleaned. For example, a handgun that is used for self-defense may only need to be cleaned once a month, while a rifle that is used for hunting may need to be cleaned after every use.
• How often the gun is used: The more often a gun is used, the more often it will need to be cleaned. This is because the gun will accumulate more dirt, dust, and debris from being fired.
• Environment in which the gun is used: The environment in which a gun is used can also affect how often it needs to be cleaned. For example, a gun that is used in a dusty environment will need to be cleaned more often than a gun that is used in a clean environment.
• Ammunition used:  Are you using lead?  Or are you using jacketed bullets?  Lead is usually more dirty on a gun.  Some combination bullets a pretty dirty too.
• Level of maintenance required: The level of maintenance required for a gun will also affect how often it needs to be cleaned. A gun that is well-maintained and cared for will need to be cleaned less often than a gun that is not properly maintained.

It is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how often to clean a gun. The best way to determine how often to clean your gun is to consult the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Recommended Cleaning Schedules for Different Types of Guns

The following is a general guide to recommended cleaning schedules for different types of guns:

• Handguns: Handguns should be cleaned after every use. This is because handguns are typically used for self-defense, and they may be exposed to dirt, dust, and debris when they are drawn from a holster.
• Rifles: Rifles should be cleaned after every three to five uses. This is because rifles are typically used for hunting, and they may be exposed to dirt, dust, and debris when they are used in the field.
• Shotguns: Shotguns should be cleaned after every five to ten uses. This is because shotguns are typically used for hunting and sporting clays, and they may be exposed to dirt, dust, and debris when they are used in the field.

It is important to note that these are just general guidelines. The specific cleaning schedule that you need to follow will depend on the type of gun you have, how often you use it, and the environment in which you use it.

Cleaning your gun is an important part of gun safety and maintenance. By following these suggestions, you can help to keep your gun in good working order.

Please don’t ask if I follow these suggestions.  I like to be honest!

Semper Paratus

Check 6

Burn

Use of Force Continuum and Concealed Carry

 An example of a use-of-force continuum follows:

• Officer Presence — No force is used. Considered the best way to resolve a situation.
o The mere presence of a law enforcement officer works to deter crime or diffuse a situation.
o Officers' attitudes are professional and nonthreatening.
• Verbalization — Force is not-physical.
o Officers issue calm, nonthreatening commands, such as "Let me see your identification and registration."
o Officers may increase their volume and shorten commands in an attempt to gain compliance. Short commands might include "Stop," or "Don't move."
• Empty-Hand Control — Officers use bodily force to gain control of a situation.
o Soft technique. Officers use grabs, holds and joint locks to restrain an individual.
o Hard technique. Officers use punches and kicks to restrain an individual.
• Less-Lethal Methods — Officers use less-lethal technologies to gain control of a situation.

o Blunt impact. Officers may use a baton or projectile to immobilize a combative person.
o Chemical. Officers may use chemical sprays or projectiles embedded with chemicals to restrain an individual (e.g., pepper spray).
o Conducted Energy Devices (CEDs). Officers may use CEDs to immobilize an individual. CEDs discharge a high-voltage, low-amperage jolt of electricity at a distance.
• Lethal Force — Officers use lethal weapons to gain control of a situation. Should only be used if a suspect poses a serious threat to the officer or another individual.
o Officers use deadly weapons such as firearms to stop an individual's actions.
Concealed Carry Use of Force Continuum

Unlike a police officer, the presence of a concealed carry civilian is not a deterrent. I think we should add a first step in place of “Officer presence” with “Get out of dodge”. If you can see something developing, violence, riot, a fight, have an exit strategy. You should be practicing good situational awareness and should be able to see something developing. Get yourself out of harms way.
Verbalization-Force is not physical.
You can calmly try to defuse the situation as a police officer might. If things escalate make sure your words are clear and concise.
Empty-hand control
As a civilian you really cannot grab someone. But if you think you can throw someone to deflect them and to escape, then do so.

Less-lethal methods
Cops are equipped with an array of weapons on their duty belts and are taught the "use of force continuum," which clarifies how to match the right tool to the threat level. For example, if a bad boy wants to grapple at close distance, the police can break him down with an impact weapon. If he squares off against an officer from 10-feet away, he could get a blast of pepper spray. And if he looks crazy or amped on dope, he will get a jolt with the Taser. The cops I know don't want to shoot anybody any more than you do. You might want to think about having a second, less-than-lethal weapon on your person whether you carry a firearm or not. Dual-force will give you additional response options and/or provide you with something in your hand that should be recognized by a street-wise criminal as a potential defensive weapon. Remembering a key point in risk avoidance, if you look like a hard target, predators are more likely to pass you by in favor of an easier mark.

Lethal force
You had better make sure there is a reason to use lethal force. Also make sure you issue commands that can be heard by witnesses or a 911 call. Remember also, you should not hesitate if faced with a risk to your life, but just pulling your gun doesn’t mean you have to shoot. Often the presence of a gun is similar to the presence of law enforcement. It can stop the situation and give you a chance to leave. But remember, this is your last resort, and there should be a clear and present threat. If you draw your weapon, you’d better be prepared to use it.  Don’t draw your gun and hope that’s enough.  If you must shoot, make sure your reason will convince a jury.  It may not come to that, but it could ultimately come to a trial.  Just saying “I feared for my life” may not be enough to keep you out of jail. If there is a threat do not hesitate, but be sure about a threat.

Using a similar adapted Use of Force Continuum is of benefit to any concealed carry participant. If you can learn these steps and review them, if the time comes you are better prepared to meet the challenge and come out on top. Being prepared for most contingencies is a mindset.

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn