When I was a young small arms instructor in the military I had been teaching for about a month. The NCOIC (non- commissioned officer in charge) of the CATM (combat arms training and maintenance) called me into his office. This guy was a Viet Nam veteran who served in the Army as an infantryman during the war. He was a grisly, no nonsense kind of guy. He asked how things were going and then pulled out a file with my name on it. I did not even work for the security unit that he was in charge of. He mentioned my shooting scores for re-qualifying. I had done pretty well that day and he mentioned that it’s been a year since my initial instructor course. I had only just started to instruct. Finally he said, “We’re getting close to your 200th hour and I wanted to make sure things were going well.”
Why is the 200th hour such a critical time? That’s when trained, experienced professionals make some pretty bad mistakes. In certain areas of my job as an instructor I had a checklist. Now I could quote the checklist but it was important not to. You follow the checklist to not skip a step, not because you don’t have the tasks memorized. As an instructor I had the four safety rules memorized but I made it a point to have a printed copy of them in my hand when I reviewed them so I would not miss anything. When dealing with danger to life, ensure safety.
If you are new to guns and you haven’t been carrying long make it a point to take note of your 200th hour of training or carrying. Take that time to review the safety protocols you have in place. Think about what you do and how you do it. If you need some changes to be safer then make them. Never feel like it is “overkill” to be safe. Checking something twice is not redundant it is ensuring safety.
One of the things that many shooters do not understand is that even experienced gun handlers can make a mistake under certain circumstances. Being tired, unfocused, or under stress can affect actions. Reviewing the 4 basic safety rules and expounding upon them can be a very important task.
RULE 1
ALL GUNS ARE ALWAYS LOADED
The only exception to this occurs when one has a weapon in his hands and he has personally unloaded it for checking and just checked it. As soon as he puts it down, Rule 1 applies again. Obviously if a slide is back and you can see into a chamber the gun is safe but the rule is more about bad habits and good ones. There is no difference in how you point the gun if you are sure it is “loaded” or “unloaded”.
RULE 2
NEVER LET THE MUZZLE COVER (POINT AT) ANYTHING YOU ARE NOT WILLING TO DESTROY
You may not wish to destroy it, but you must be clear in your mind that you are quite ready to if you let that muzzle cover the target. To allow a firearm to point at another human being is a deadly threat, and should always be treated as such. This and three are the most broken of the rules. You must be meticulous about this. Others and other things are obvious to not point at, but what about you? Your body, your hand, your leg, your foot.
In a combat situation I remember how badly this rule was broken. I do remember how often a negligent discharge would happen. Amazingly, they rarely hit anyone. But I don’t like the odds.
RULE 3
KEEP YOUR FINGER OFF THE TRIGGER (AND OUT OF THE GUARD) UNTIL YOUR SIGHTS ARE ON THE TARGET
This we call the Golden Rule because it's violation is responsible for about 80 percent of the firearms disasters we read about. The problem is the design of a gun is such that this may be easy to violate. Triggers should be easy to get to. You must make a conscious choice to keep your finger straight.
RULE 4
BE SURE OF YOUR TARGET
You never shoot at anything until you have positively identified it. You never fire at a shadow, or a sound, or a suspected presence. You shoot only when you know absolutely what you are shooting at and what is beyond it.
Many people, even experienced gun handlers, think that after rule 1 is accomplished, there are no more rules. This is of course BALONEY! In most incidents the other 3 rules were ignored and as a result, a negligent discharge. If you have a gun. If you ever think you will ever own or use a gun, these 4 rules should be tattooed on your brain. Do not violate these rules in any form. Remind others also. I do this constantly with my family. Not because I don't trust them, on the contrary, I absolutely do not want them hurt or for them to experience the heartbreak of an accident that they could have prevented.
The only time I point the barrel at myself or another person is when the gun is apart and the barrel is off the slide. Otherwise, all rules apply. I even hate the idea of carrying a weapon that has one in the chamber. Which, by the way, is stupid NOT to do if you carry for self-defense. If there is an external hammer it doesn't necessarily have to be pulled back with an auto that is double action.
Good habits save lives. A strong lifetime habit of handling a weapon respectfully EVEN when unloaded can prevent injury and death when your brain isn't paying as much attention as it should.
First, unload the firearm, then lock the action open and double-check that it's unloaded, using your eyes and then your fingertip to be sure. (That takes care of Rule One.) Be conscious of your muzzle direction at all times. Don't get sloppy or careless with the muzzle even though you think the gun is now unloaded. (Rule Two.) Close the action and deliberately point the muzzle at a consciously-chosen safe aimpoint. One reason people point guns in foolish directions is because they haven't consciously chosen a good direction, so choose a specific spot to aim the muzzle before you put your finger on the trigger. (Rule Three.) When you choose that spot, be certain it can really stop a bullet of the caliber your gun can fire. For instance, for a handgun you might choose to aim at a cement wall in the basement, or at the top of a thick stack of books, or at a purpose-made product such as a Safe Directions pad, or at the corner of the floor in a one-story building. (Rule Four.)
Remember the 200th hour. This is about the time that someone spends training when they make their first mistake. In flying this can happen with pilots. I tend to agree. By the 200th hour your experience just starts to exceed your knowledge and you can become careless. That's when mistakes are made. Be aware of this and act accordingly. I believe the second “danger hour” is after 2 years. Know your limits and NEVER break the rules!
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Friday, September 27, 2019
Friday, September 20, 2019
What, Me Worry? Security At Church
Someone who knows me and knows I write this Blog asked me a question. “Why do you advocate for self-defense in Church buildings even with the Church’s latest change in policy?” Yes I do advocate for self-defense at Church, but also everywhere! My experiences in the military gave me an appreciation for security and often I am “hyper-vigilant”. But to be honest, I’ve kept track of violence on Church property for some time. The only “research” I do concerning it is a Google search, so you can see it’s not very scientific. But the results are alarming enough to where I want my kids aware and using some situational awareness. Here it is:
Violence at LDS buildings and threats toward the Church
April 1999
SLC, UT
“2 Shot Dead In Mormon Library”
January 2008
Lehi, UT
“Woman shot to death outside church”
August 2010
Vasalia, CA
“Mormon bishop fatally shot in California chapel; gunman killed”
December 2010
South Jordan, UT (Oquirrh Mountain Temple)
“Police shoot armed man outside LDS temple”
December 2011
SALT LAKE CITY — Murder charges were filed Friday in the case of the shooting death of Hairam Torres, who was found dead in the back seat of a rental car parked at an LDS Church parking lot in West Valley City on Dec. 10.
February 2013
Columbus, OH (Columbus Temple)
“Police: 2 Shot In Parking Lot Of West Side Mormon Temple”
July 2013
PLAIN CITY, Utah -- A man was arrested outside a church in Plain City on Sunday after authorities said an argument over "seat saving" in the pews escalated to a fistfight in the parking lot and another man being hit by a car.
November 2013
Las Vegas, NV (Las Vegas Temple)
“Son of judge killed himself in Las Vegas LDS temple courtyard”
(This was a suicide but it was violence on Church property)
October 2014
SLC, UT
“Woman shot outside of church in South Salt Lake”
May 2015
EAGAR, Arizona — An Arizona man is dead and two others injured — including a pregnant woman — after he began shooting at a LDS stake center in Eagar, Arizona, and later at his residence, officials say.
“Suspect killed by police after shooting at Mormon stake center”
June 2015
OAKLEY, CA — Two people were shot, and another bludgeoned multiple times, during a large fight between two groups outside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints while Sunday service was getting out, police said.
April 2016
GILBERT, Ariz. - Gilbert police are looking Wednesday morning for the three men involved in shooting a 19-year-old man at an LDS church Tuesday night.
July 2016
Smithfield, UT
“Police have arrested a 30-year-old Smithfield man, Jason Summers, who is accused of shooting at someone while trying to break into an LDS Church, Thursday night.”
August 2016
Solon, OH
An officer saw a man sitting in his car beside the LDS church. As the officer approached, the man jumped out of his car, ran into the trees and shot himself. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
(This too was a suicide and not necessarily on Church property)
June 2016
SLC, UT
A meth purchase gone bad led to a vehicle chase and shooting. The fleeing vehicle went into the parking lot of an LDS church as the aggressors caught up to them and continued shooting at them. The victims tried to break into the church to get away which prompted a burglar alarm & police came. Nobody was hit by the gunfire.
June 2016
Amarillo, TX
A 23-year-old man shot another man nearly a month before that Wednesday when he was injured in another gun battle. The man walked over a mile to get away from the scene where he knew police would be looking for him. He chose to hide behind an outside wall of the LDS church, where an observant officer noticed his leg sticking out. The man refused orders to show himself, and when the first thing officers saw was his gun they opened fire on him. He was hit but will survive.
April 2016
Vancouver, WA
As a group was in the LDS Church playing basketball, someone broke out a window in the other end of the church, entered the building, and set books and the podium on fire. The guys playing basketball smelled the smoke and discovered the fire, putting it out before anyone got hurt.
March 2016
Herriman, UT
A 12-year-old boy was playing in the parking lot of the LDS church when a man pulled up in his car and tried to convince the boy to get in with him. The boy ran off and police have been looking for the potential abductor.
January 2016
Idaho Falls, ID
A man’s estranged wife showed up at his funeral at an LDS Chapel and became angry. The bishop asked her to please not say those things, and she pulled out a gun and began to threaten the funeral attendees. Everyone got out safely, and police arrived to disarm and arrest her.
January 2016
Rigby, ID
Around 10:25 PM that Friday night police responded to the parking lot of an LDS church on reports of gunfire. Police found a shattered window at the church, then arrested a man a short time later based on descriptions given by witnesses.
June 2017
Riverside, CA
Girl abducted from Mormon Church sexually assaulted in a dumpster
(This was violence but no weapon is mentioned.)
April 2017
SLC, UT
A woman rebuked another woman for parking in a handicap spot without a sticker. The driver drove up beside her in the parking lot of the LDS Church and threw a Slushy in her face, then ran over her breaking both her legs. Police continue to look for the Cadillac Escalade driver.
January 2017
Kalamazoo, MI
A woman was in the LDS church parking lot when she was confronted by a man demanding her car keys. She refused, so he punched her repeatedly in the face and took it anyway. She had no idea it was at the end of a violent crime spree including armed robbery, arson, and another woman shot in her home.
November 2017
San Diego, CA
On November 29 a jihadist media group published an image suggesting San Diego could be in the crosshairs of terrorists this holiday season. The San Diego California Temple in University City appears to be their target of choice. An image of a terrorist holding an assault rifle was superimposed on the Mormon temple, which appears to be on fire. The two towering spires rise up on either side of the jihadist. A statement at the bottom of the image reads, “Coming Soon.. San Diego.” The words “Coming Soon” are wrapped in Christmas decorations and splattered with red.
March 2018
Newberry Township, Pennsylvania
A shooting on Friday, March 30, at a church in Newberry Township was ruled a suicide by the York County coroner.
Police were on the scene at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 800 Pleasant Drive, in the township when a coroner was dispatched about 6 p.m. for a report of a possible self-inflicted fatality, according to a coroner's report.
May 2018
ST. GEORGE, Utah — A Mormon church spokesman says an intruder broke into a church temple in southern Utah and damaged furniture, artwork and other items before being stopped by church workers and arrested by police.
Eric Hawkins of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints says the St. George Temple resumed normal operations after the incident Saturday morning.
Hawkins says the intruder damaged items as he made his way to the temple’s fifth floor and caused additional damage there.
(This is not physical violence. But the guy had to have had something in his hand to do this damage. And he made it to the 5th Floor!)
July 22, 2018.
Fallon, NV
On Sunday, a middle-aged Mormon man went into the LDS chapel where his ward was having sacrament meeting, and sat quietly for part of the service. Then he opened fire, killing one ward member and wounding another.
Dec. 2, 2018
Aparecida de Goiania, Brazil
'Everyone will die': Blood-soaked man is arrested for stabbing four during Sunday service at LDS church in Brazil
Uniform Crime Reporting program results DOJ 2017 statistics
Of the 1,749 victims of anti-religious hate crimes:
58.1 percent were victims of crimes motivated by their offenders’ anti-Jewish bias.
18.6 percent were victims of anti-Islamic (Muslim) bias.
4.3 percent were victims of anti-Catholic bias.
3.3 percent were victims of bias against groups of individuals of varying religions (anti-multiple religions, group).
2.3 percent were victims of anti-Protestant bias.
1.8 percent were victims of anti-Other Christian bias.
1.5 percent were victims of anti-Eastern Orthodox (Russian, Greek, Other) bias.
1.5 percent were victims of anti-Sikh bias.
0.9 percent (15 individuals) were victims of anti-Hindu bias.
0.9 percent (15 individuals) were victims of anti-Mormon bias.
0.7 percent (13 individuals) were victims of anti-Jehovah’s Witness bias.
0.7 percent (12 individuals) were victims of anti-Buddhist bias.
0.5 percent (8 individuals) were victims of anti-Atheist/Agnostic bias.
4.9 percent were victims of bias against other religions (anti-other religion).
The FBI documented 15 "anti-Mormon" hate crimes, or crimes specifically targeting Latter-day Saints, in 2017. That's roughly twice the seven "anti-Mormon" hate crimes recorded in 2016 or the eight in 2015, when the bureau first started tracking bias-motivated offenses against religious minorities.
July 23, 2019
St. George, Utah
Shooting in LDS Church parking lot
This is something that seems to be escalating. I know that there have been problems in other countries with members or missionaries but those seemed to be isolated incidents that did not repeat very often. They are now the “norm” for the United States.
These and other personal reasons I have for advocating self-defense at Church. I do not, and will not, suggest that anyone breaks Church policy. I wrestle with this struggle myself but that is a personal problem. My advice is to be safe and secure. There are other ways to defend yourself and just paying attention will get you far.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Violence at LDS buildings and threats toward the Church
April 1999
SLC, UT
“2 Shot Dead In Mormon Library”
January 2008
Lehi, UT
“Woman shot to death outside church”
August 2010
Vasalia, CA
“Mormon bishop fatally shot in California chapel; gunman killed”
December 2010
South Jordan, UT (Oquirrh Mountain Temple)
“Police shoot armed man outside LDS temple”
December 2011
SALT LAKE CITY — Murder charges were filed Friday in the case of the shooting death of Hairam Torres, who was found dead in the back seat of a rental car parked at an LDS Church parking lot in West Valley City on Dec. 10.
February 2013
Columbus, OH (Columbus Temple)
“Police: 2 Shot In Parking Lot Of West Side Mormon Temple”
July 2013
PLAIN CITY, Utah -- A man was arrested outside a church in Plain City on Sunday after authorities said an argument over "seat saving" in the pews escalated to a fistfight in the parking lot and another man being hit by a car.
November 2013
Las Vegas, NV (Las Vegas Temple)
“Son of judge killed himself in Las Vegas LDS temple courtyard”
(This was a suicide but it was violence on Church property)
October 2014
SLC, UT
“Woman shot outside of church in South Salt Lake”
May 2015
EAGAR, Arizona — An Arizona man is dead and two others injured — including a pregnant woman — after he began shooting at a LDS stake center in Eagar, Arizona, and later at his residence, officials say.
“Suspect killed by police after shooting at Mormon stake center”
June 2015
OAKLEY, CA — Two people were shot, and another bludgeoned multiple times, during a large fight between two groups outside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints while Sunday service was getting out, police said.
April 2016
GILBERT, Ariz. - Gilbert police are looking Wednesday morning for the three men involved in shooting a 19-year-old man at an LDS church Tuesday night.
July 2016
Smithfield, UT
“Police have arrested a 30-year-old Smithfield man, Jason Summers, who is accused of shooting at someone while trying to break into an LDS Church, Thursday night.”
August 2016
Solon, OH
An officer saw a man sitting in his car beside the LDS church. As the officer approached, the man jumped out of his car, ran into the trees and shot himself. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
(This too was a suicide and not necessarily on Church property)
June 2016
SLC, UT
A meth purchase gone bad led to a vehicle chase and shooting. The fleeing vehicle went into the parking lot of an LDS church as the aggressors caught up to them and continued shooting at them. The victims tried to break into the church to get away which prompted a burglar alarm & police came. Nobody was hit by the gunfire.
June 2016
Amarillo, TX
A 23-year-old man shot another man nearly a month before that Wednesday when he was injured in another gun battle. The man walked over a mile to get away from the scene where he knew police would be looking for him. He chose to hide behind an outside wall of the LDS church, where an observant officer noticed his leg sticking out. The man refused orders to show himself, and when the first thing officers saw was his gun they opened fire on him. He was hit but will survive.
April 2016
Vancouver, WA
As a group was in the LDS Church playing basketball, someone broke out a window in the other end of the church, entered the building, and set books and the podium on fire. The guys playing basketball smelled the smoke and discovered the fire, putting it out before anyone got hurt.
March 2016
Herriman, UT
A 12-year-old boy was playing in the parking lot of the LDS church when a man pulled up in his car and tried to convince the boy to get in with him. The boy ran off and police have been looking for the potential abductor.
January 2016
Idaho Falls, ID
A man’s estranged wife showed up at his funeral at an LDS Chapel and became angry. The bishop asked her to please not say those things, and she pulled out a gun and began to threaten the funeral attendees. Everyone got out safely, and police arrived to disarm and arrest her.
January 2016
Rigby, ID
Around 10:25 PM that Friday night police responded to the parking lot of an LDS church on reports of gunfire. Police found a shattered window at the church, then arrested a man a short time later based on descriptions given by witnesses.
June 2017
Riverside, CA
Girl abducted from Mormon Church sexually assaulted in a dumpster
(This was violence but no weapon is mentioned.)
April 2017
SLC, UT
A woman rebuked another woman for parking in a handicap spot without a sticker. The driver drove up beside her in the parking lot of the LDS Church and threw a Slushy in her face, then ran over her breaking both her legs. Police continue to look for the Cadillac Escalade driver.
January 2017
Kalamazoo, MI
A woman was in the LDS church parking lot when she was confronted by a man demanding her car keys. She refused, so he punched her repeatedly in the face and took it anyway. She had no idea it was at the end of a violent crime spree including armed robbery, arson, and another woman shot in her home.
November 2017
San Diego, CA
On November 29 a jihadist media group published an image suggesting San Diego could be in the crosshairs of terrorists this holiday season. The San Diego California Temple in University City appears to be their target of choice. An image of a terrorist holding an assault rifle was superimposed on the Mormon temple, which appears to be on fire. The two towering spires rise up on either side of the jihadist. A statement at the bottom of the image reads, “Coming Soon.. San Diego.” The words “Coming Soon” are wrapped in Christmas decorations and splattered with red.
March 2018
Newberry Township, Pennsylvania
A shooting on Friday, March 30, at a church in Newberry Township was ruled a suicide by the York County coroner.
Police were on the scene at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 800 Pleasant Drive, in the township when a coroner was dispatched about 6 p.m. for a report of a possible self-inflicted fatality, according to a coroner's report.
May 2018
ST. GEORGE, Utah — A Mormon church spokesman says an intruder broke into a church temple in southern Utah and damaged furniture, artwork and other items before being stopped by church workers and arrested by police.
Eric Hawkins of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints says the St. George Temple resumed normal operations after the incident Saturday morning.
Hawkins says the intruder damaged items as he made his way to the temple’s fifth floor and caused additional damage there.
(This is not physical violence. But the guy had to have had something in his hand to do this damage. And he made it to the 5th Floor!)
July 22, 2018.
Fallon, NV
On Sunday, a middle-aged Mormon man went into the LDS chapel where his ward was having sacrament meeting, and sat quietly for part of the service. Then he opened fire, killing one ward member and wounding another.
Dec. 2, 2018
Aparecida de Goiania, Brazil
'Everyone will die': Blood-soaked man is arrested for stabbing four during Sunday service at LDS church in Brazil
Uniform Crime Reporting program results DOJ 2017 statistics
Of the 1,749 victims of anti-religious hate crimes:
58.1 percent were victims of crimes motivated by their offenders’ anti-Jewish bias.
18.6 percent were victims of anti-Islamic (Muslim) bias.
4.3 percent were victims of anti-Catholic bias.
3.3 percent were victims of bias against groups of individuals of varying religions (anti-multiple religions, group).
2.3 percent were victims of anti-Protestant bias.
1.8 percent were victims of anti-Other Christian bias.
1.5 percent were victims of anti-Eastern Orthodox (Russian, Greek, Other) bias.
1.5 percent were victims of anti-Sikh bias.
0.9 percent (15 individuals) were victims of anti-Hindu bias.
0.9 percent (15 individuals) were victims of anti-Mormon bias.
0.7 percent (13 individuals) were victims of anti-Jehovah’s Witness bias.
0.7 percent (12 individuals) were victims of anti-Buddhist bias.
0.5 percent (8 individuals) were victims of anti-Atheist/Agnostic bias.
4.9 percent were victims of bias against other religions (anti-other religion).
The FBI documented 15 "anti-Mormon" hate crimes, or crimes specifically targeting Latter-day Saints, in 2017. That's roughly twice the seven "anti-Mormon" hate crimes recorded in 2016 or the eight in 2015, when the bureau first started tracking bias-motivated offenses against religious minorities.
July 23, 2019
St. George, Utah
Shooting in LDS Church parking lot
This is something that seems to be escalating. I know that there have been problems in other countries with members or missionaries but those seemed to be isolated incidents that did not repeat very often. They are now the “norm” for the United States.
These and other personal reasons I have for advocating self-defense at Church. I do not, and will not, suggest that anyone breaks Church policy. I wrestle with this struggle myself but that is a personal problem. My advice is to be safe and secure. There are other ways to defend yourself and just paying attention will get you far.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Thursday, September 19, 2019
The Space-Time Continuum and Awareness
I live in the country outside of a small town. We have about a 10 minute drive on a highway to get into town. Most of the trip is 70 miles an hour. There are several roads that run off this highway and so many vehicles want to pull out and merge onto this highway. I have watched the process many times. I will be going along at 70 MPH and I can see a car that wants to pull out. They will stop and about 2 to 4 seconds later they will pull out. They have to look at the traffic coming their way and evaluate. By the time they process what they are seeing, I am a lot closer because of speed.
I just read about a police officer shooting an attacker in the back. But when they looked at body cam footage, it was clear that the attacker had shot at the officer. So why did he shoot him in the back? It’s all about timing. This happens more often than anyone realizes. What happens is that the attacker turns and the defender doesn’t realize it. In short, reality isn’t what you see, and you have walked around your entire life consciously SEEING a reality that happened a quarter, half, or even 3/4 of a second ago. You don’t realize it normally, but everyone has memories of times where this came into play. Ever hear someone who got into a vehicle accident say “I never even saw it coming!” With driving, the visual perception delay and reactionary gap is generally accepted to be 2 seconds. This is why drivers are always told to stay at least 2 seconds behind the car in front of them to be able to consciously identify and react to danger.
Typical movies are shot at 24 frames per second. They look pretty smooth. Fighter pilots who are trained can identify aircraft in only 1/200th of second. But they still have to process what they see and react. This takes them about ¼ of a second
When we look around, it looks like everything is moving fluidly, but we really see in frames…kind of like a movie.
The frame rate that you see at is dependent on light, the colors you’re observing at the time, cognitive load/stress, and your specific neurology.
The simple fact is, good people DO justifiably shoot attackers in the back after they’ve stopped attacking and started to run away.
Because of the fact that there’s a quarter to three-quarter second delay between what our eyes see and what the conscious mind is able to process.
During that 1/4-3/4 second delay, the attacker has plenty of time to drop their weapon, turn, and depending on the situation, start moving away…all the while, the shooter is seeing what happened earlier—which was the attacker facing them and posing a threat.
If you’re firing off shots with quarter second splits, then you could feasibly shoot your attacker once in the side and a time or two in the back without even realizing that they were no longer a threat.
In fact, visual perception delay is a criminal defense tool that can help in cases where 1-2 shots are fired into the back of someone who WAS a threat. 3 would be questionable, but 4 would be incredibly difficult because by that time, the fact that your attacker is no longer a threat should have made it to your conscious mind.
This is where the OODA loop is important to understand. Very basically it is this:
The OODA Loop — Observe, Orient, Decide, Act. Nation-states around the world and even terrorist organizations use the OODA Loop as part of their military strategy. It has also been adopted by businesses to help them thrive in a volatile and highly competitive economy.
The OODA Loop is an oft-cited, but typically misunderstood idea. If you’ve heard of it, it was most likely presented in a fairly superficial way – as a 4-step decision-making process where the individual or group who makes it through all the stages the quickest, wins. Or getting “inside” your opponents loop with throw them off so that you can strike. This is all true, but there is more to it all than this brief explanation. This is why training is so important and situational awareness makes the difference in defense and using that ¼ of second you may gain on your attacker. Knowing these things can help you train better and be better prepared for any defensive event you experience.
This situational awareness information is important to help you plan your training program or in teaching this to others.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
I just read about a police officer shooting an attacker in the back. But when they looked at body cam footage, it was clear that the attacker had shot at the officer. So why did he shoot him in the back? It’s all about timing. This happens more often than anyone realizes. What happens is that the attacker turns and the defender doesn’t realize it. In short, reality isn’t what you see, and you have walked around your entire life consciously SEEING a reality that happened a quarter, half, or even 3/4 of a second ago. You don’t realize it normally, but everyone has memories of times where this came into play. Ever hear someone who got into a vehicle accident say “I never even saw it coming!” With driving, the visual perception delay and reactionary gap is generally accepted to be 2 seconds. This is why drivers are always told to stay at least 2 seconds behind the car in front of them to be able to consciously identify and react to danger.
Typical movies are shot at 24 frames per second. They look pretty smooth. Fighter pilots who are trained can identify aircraft in only 1/200th of second. But they still have to process what they see and react. This takes them about ¼ of a second
When we look around, it looks like everything is moving fluidly, but we really see in frames…kind of like a movie.
The frame rate that you see at is dependent on light, the colors you’re observing at the time, cognitive load/stress, and your specific neurology.
The simple fact is, good people DO justifiably shoot attackers in the back after they’ve stopped attacking and started to run away.
Because of the fact that there’s a quarter to three-quarter second delay between what our eyes see and what the conscious mind is able to process.
During that 1/4-3/4 second delay, the attacker has plenty of time to drop their weapon, turn, and depending on the situation, start moving away…all the while, the shooter is seeing what happened earlier—which was the attacker facing them and posing a threat.
If you’re firing off shots with quarter second splits, then you could feasibly shoot your attacker once in the side and a time or two in the back without even realizing that they were no longer a threat.
In fact, visual perception delay is a criminal defense tool that can help in cases where 1-2 shots are fired into the back of someone who WAS a threat. 3 would be questionable, but 4 would be incredibly difficult because by that time, the fact that your attacker is no longer a threat should have made it to your conscious mind.
This is where the OODA loop is important to understand. Very basically it is this:
The OODA Loop — Observe, Orient, Decide, Act. Nation-states around the world and even terrorist organizations use the OODA Loop as part of their military strategy. It has also been adopted by businesses to help them thrive in a volatile and highly competitive economy.
The OODA Loop is an oft-cited, but typically misunderstood idea. If you’ve heard of it, it was most likely presented in a fairly superficial way – as a 4-step decision-making process where the individual or group who makes it through all the stages the quickest, wins. Or getting “inside” your opponents loop with throw them off so that you can strike. This is all true, but there is more to it all than this brief explanation. This is why training is so important and situational awareness makes the difference in defense and using that ¼ of second you may gain on your attacker. Knowing these things can help you train better and be better prepared for any defensive event you experience.
This situational awareness information is important to help you plan your training program or in teaching this to others.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Situational Awareness Day 2019
I’ve maintained that we are ripe in this country for another terrorist event. I’m not negative or pessimistic, just trying to be realistic. Every passing day gets closer to one. I know that since 9-11 there have been many safeguards put into place. I do agree that there needed to be more vigilance. But the odds are not with us. There are 326 million people in this country. Our borders are pretty open and the chances of someone slipping across to do evil gets higher all the time. Our intelligence community and law enforcement are very good. They have stopped much, but like the drug war, something always gets through. This is why the government gives us this advice:
“We urge Americans to continue to travel, attend public events, and freely associate with others but remain vigilant and aware of surroundings.”
“Be responsible for your personal safety.”
National Terrorism Advisory System Bulletin, September 14, 2018, Department of Homeland Security
I was in a situation many years ago in a foreign land that taught me about the importance of situational awareness. I was with two other guys transporting ammo cans full of ammo to another location to some other guys who really needed it. One of us three was sent as security because me and one other had our hands full. We rounded a turn and almost ran into an enemy patrol of 9 guys. Our security guy was where he was supposed to be doing what he was supposed to be doing and we ended up taking out all 9 of these guys. If it were not for his attention and awareness I would not be writing in this post. Also, besides our security guy being aware we were able to drop our load and raise our rifles before the enemy even had their weapons up. They paid the price for being in white, and we reaped the blessing of being in red.
For a review here are the Cooper Color Codes again:
Condition White
Completely unprepared and unaware of your surroundings. In Condition White you may be in deadly danger and not realize it.
If you are attacked in Condition White, you are unlikely to be able to effectively respond and you may be seriously injured or killed.
Condition Yellow
State of relaxed alertness and situational awareness. In Condition Yellow although you are not aware of any specific situation that may call for immediate action, you know that you may have to defend yourself today.
You understand that the world is full of hazards, many of which are human, and that your readiness to take defensive action can mitigate these threats. If you are attacked in Condition Yellow, you will probably prevail if you are armed and may be able to take effective action even if unarmed.
Condition Orange
In Condition Orange, you become alert to the possibility deadly threat in your immediate environment. In Condition Orange you understand that you may have to shoot a specific threat, right now, today.
At this point your normal reluctance becomes easier to overcome because your training tells you that someone is threatening to use unlawful deadly force against you or another innocent. You begin actively looking for threat indicators and start conscious analysis and assessments of potential threats.
Although you remain cognizant of the legal and moral aspects of the situation, you focus your mind on the possible need for immediate defensive action. Looking deep — what’s in their hands? Are they looking at you or past you? Can you safely leave the area? Should you?
Your hand may establish a firing grip on the pistol, you may draw the pistol at home, but probably not in the shopping mall or other crowded public place. The actions of that threat — standing right there — dictate your next moves.
Condition Red
You have drawn your pistol because you are justified in taking the threat at gunpoint; you can articulate why this is so.
In Condition Red, you have decided to act the instant the threat’s behavior warrants an immediate response. You wait for a trigger or take other lifesaving actions as the totality of the circumstances dictate.
It’s always good to review these conditions.
National Terrorism Advisory System Bulletin, January 18, 2019, Department of Homeland Security
“Be responsible for your personal safety. Know where emergency exits and security personnel are located. Carry emergency contact and special needs information with you.”
My wife has said it is not easy being married to me. I wouldn’t think that it would be. My experience in the military and serving in combat has made me a different person. She is different because of being married to me. Teaching your family situational awareness can be lifesaving. But it is not “main stream” American living. Some say it is paranoia. Preparedness is not paranoia. Although with my PTSD you can never tell…
Don’t forget that next Thursday is National Situational Awareness Day! (26 SEP 2019)
And September is National Preparedness Month. Even the government is saying that we should be prepared!
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
“We urge Americans to continue to travel, attend public events, and freely associate with others but remain vigilant and aware of surroundings.”
“Be responsible for your personal safety.”
National Terrorism Advisory System Bulletin, September 14, 2018, Department of Homeland Security
I was in a situation many years ago in a foreign land that taught me about the importance of situational awareness. I was with two other guys transporting ammo cans full of ammo to another location to some other guys who really needed it. One of us three was sent as security because me and one other had our hands full. We rounded a turn and almost ran into an enemy patrol of 9 guys. Our security guy was where he was supposed to be doing what he was supposed to be doing and we ended up taking out all 9 of these guys. If it were not for his attention and awareness I would not be writing in this post. Also, besides our security guy being aware we were able to drop our load and raise our rifles before the enemy even had their weapons up. They paid the price for being in white, and we reaped the blessing of being in red.
For a review here are the Cooper Color Codes again:
Condition White
Completely unprepared and unaware of your surroundings. In Condition White you may be in deadly danger and not realize it.
If you are attacked in Condition White, you are unlikely to be able to effectively respond and you may be seriously injured or killed.
Condition Yellow
State of relaxed alertness and situational awareness. In Condition Yellow although you are not aware of any specific situation that may call for immediate action, you know that you may have to defend yourself today.
You understand that the world is full of hazards, many of which are human, and that your readiness to take defensive action can mitigate these threats. If you are attacked in Condition Yellow, you will probably prevail if you are armed and may be able to take effective action even if unarmed.
Condition Orange
In Condition Orange, you become alert to the possibility deadly threat in your immediate environment. In Condition Orange you understand that you may have to shoot a specific threat, right now, today.
At this point your normal reluctance becomes easier to overcome because your training tells you that someone is threatening to use unlawful deadly force against you or another innocent. You begin actively looking for threat indicators and start conscious analysis and assessments of potential threats.
Although you remain cognizant of the legal and moral aspects of the situation, you focus your mind on the possible need for immediate defensive action. Looking deep — what’s in their hands? Are they looking at you or past you? Can you safely leave the area? Should you?
Your hand may establish a firing grip on the pistol, you may draw the pistol at home, but probably not in the shopping mall or other crowded public place. The actions of that threat — standing right there — dictate your next moves.
Condition Red
You have drawn your pistol because you are justified in taking the threat at gunpoint; you can articulate why this is so.
In Condition Red, you have decided to act the instant the threat’s behavior warrants an immediate response. You wait for a trigger or take other lifesaving actions as the totality of the circumstances dictate.
It’s always good to review these conditions.
National Terrorism Advisory System Bulletin, January 18, 2019, Department of Homeland Security
“Be responsible for your personal safety. Know where emergency exits and security personnel are located. Carry emergency contact and special needs information with you.”
My wife has said it is not easy being married to me. I wouldn’t think that it would be. My experience in the military and serving in combat has made me a different person. She is different because of being married to me. Teaching your family situational awareness can be lifesaving. But it is not “main stream” American living. Some say it is paranoia. Preparedness is not paranoia. Although with my PTSD you can never tell…
Don’t forget that next Thursday is National Situational Awareness Day! (26 SEP 2019)
And September is National Preparedness Month. Even the government is saying that we should be prepared!
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Tuesday, September 10, 2019
New LDS Policy Defense Adaptation
The Church has decided to make our chapels “gun free” zones. I’ll not debate the wisdom of this, maybe it’s liability, or maybe something I do not know. But since they basically announced this to the world, I want my family to have some training. I’ve put together a video package of training I think is worth watching. There is also other materials with these videos to review annually. I will write a post of these recommendations with links to the material. Let me give you the basics and the philosophy behind this initiative.
I’m a gun guy. I have been for most of my life. That’s one of the purposes of this blog is an outlet for my “gun-ness”. I have chosen a gun to defend me and mine. You may not lean this way. (Then why are you on a Gun blog?) And that is OK, not everyone is suited to lethal force. It’s a big responsibility. There are other weapons that I would recommend you looking into. I don’t like the thought of using a less than lethal weapon and my attacker just keeps coming. My goal is to stop the threat. But I also figure that something is better than nothing. Some out there would not agree. I do subscribe to the “close and engage” until the threat stops or leaves. Some of these weapons may just make an attacker mad. Some may be ineffective. So go into this with your eyes open. But with that being said I have given my wife and daughters pepper spray for their key rings. I’ve also given them some training. But I also know they don’t have the time nor the inclination to take additional training. So I figure reviewing materials and videos annually is good additional training. I’ll be the first to say that I don’t like all training I find on You tube. So I have waded through many videos to find the training I like and what I think is effective. So what I will suggest will be my opinion.
I have had the opportunity of being trained in many weapons. I had to qualify annually with pepper spray, a stun gun, and a baton. I’ve had several hand-to-hand combat classes but I do not know any of the martial arts disciplines. I have had some limited Kubotan training so I feel I can use a tactical pen effectively. I train with this a few times a year so I’m far from expert with it. I’ve had limited knife fighting training although I’ve had more defending against a knife than fighting with one. All of these things take some specialized training and practice.
Some say that pepper spray is dangerous. They maintain that it is more harmful than helpful in a fight. I do not agree but I have never had to use it to defend myself. If you get the right spray and train with it some I think it can be effective. Pepper-spray is also more acceptable than a gun in many environments. I would recommend Saber brand spray in the “stream”. I’ve used others and found Saber to be the most reliable and best for my use.
I like a Youtube channel called “Pretty Loaded”. It is a channel focused on women’s defense and security. They have a video you should check out comparing pepper-sprays. Check it out:
https://youtu.be/V94L5XnBt-0
They have lots of videos with safety and security tips.
This is their Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqZ6rEhM0qtjCn3XWyMZ4Sw
There are classes available in many places so ask at your gun store or look on community websites.
Expandable batons are the modern day stick. We haven’t progress very far have we? I like these weapons because used properly they can make a lot of difference in defending yourself. They are not expensive or hard to use. Training is important because these weapons can be lethal used incorrectly.
Stun guns is a general term sometimes used for many different kinds of electro-shock devices. They come in several forms. The industry puts them into 2 categories. Stun guns and Tasers.
Stun guns are close proximity devices that use high-voltage electricity to stop an attacker by momentarily disabling muscle control. To use, simply pull the trigger and touch the aggressor with the metal prongs. I think training with a up close and personal weapon such as this requires at least some remedial training. These come in all shapes and sizes with varying voltages. They are also more cost effective. But beware of cheap, fly-by-night models. These weapons do not require a background check.
Tasers are usually shaped like a gun and have probes that shoot out. This is better if you are looking for more distance between you and your attacker. They are designed to go through up to 2 inch thick clothing. A background check is required if you live in MD or MN. They are also more expensive than stun guns. You also need replacement cartridges if the device is ever used. But if you use your Taser and leave it to escape an assailant Taser will replace the device at no cost to you.
I own some stun guns but I’m not the biggest fan. I just like having the option if needed.
A Tactical Pen is a very useful tool. I carry one everywhere. Especially into environments that would be considered non-permissive. I’ve flown with one and gone into prisons with one. I’ve never had to pen confiscated or detected. That has been my experience. You may have another experience but I hope not. What I like about a Tac pen is that they look like a pen and write like a pen. They don’t look like a weapon. A kubotan is a keychain self-defense weapon. It was first developed by Japanese American karate master Takayuki Kubota. It’s a stick self-defense weapon. They are usually five to six inches long. They are made of hard materials, like steel, hard plastic or wood. Kubotans are usually used as a keychain. They then serve the dual purposes of a key ring and a self-defense weapon.
The kubotan was first made for use by the Los Angeles Police Department. Kubota based the design on the “hashi” stick, which Kubota’s father had invented. Small stick weapons of this type have been used in martial arts for centuries. The Japanese Yawara is a similar type of weapon. Kubotans are used by many police forces and by military personnel. This is what I consider my Tac pen. A Kubotan in pen form.
As with all things, get trained.
Hand-to hand combat is very useful. You can learn some moves and techniques that you can practice without a lot of training. But, get as much training as you can. Learning some self-defense moves is the least that I would recommend. Taking a class or asking someone you can trust to teach you some things would expand your portfolio of options. Practice these things to build muscle memory and keep the concepts fresh.
Last but not least is a knife. Many people carry a knife. I would recommend carrying one because they are versatile. Fighting with one requires training and practice also. Like shooting a gun twice a year, practicing knife fighting needs to be often and effective. It takes some skill to not hurt yourself or kill an attacker. Please get hands on training if you are serious about using a knife in self-defense. I’ve seen fairly experienced people do some damage to themselves or others because of their lack of training or practice. I see a lot of people carrying a folder knife but few of them could actually use one effectively. Some say it’s better to have it than to not. I agree, but be responsible enough to get trained! Pulling a knife on the wrong person could find your own knife plunged into your chest!
The above talks limitedly about less than lethal weapons available. I would recommend learning some hand-to-hand moves. I’d also recommend pepper spray, a Tac pen, and a baton. The others I talked about are OK too but these 4 I like. None of them are difficult to be effective with. All require training and practice.
I cannot emphasize enough the importance of training and practice!
You should also get training in situational awareness and my favorite ADD, avoid, deter and de-escalate. Learning Threat indicators and reading people is also something that can save you or someone else.
I recommend some books that will assist with your training:
“Principles of Personal Defense” by Jeff Cooper
“The Gift of Fear” by Gavin DeBecker
“On Killing” and “On Combat” by Lt. Col. Dave Grossman
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints changed its firearms policy so here is an adapting solution. Problem is, “lethal weapon” to many means deadly. I’m not sure the Church wanted ambiguity here but they’ve got it. Clearly guns are lethal. But what about a knife? Or a baseball bat? I’ve seen both of these in a chapel before but are they prohibited now? I’m not expecting a list, but if you don’t want guns just say so. My advice above may not follow this new policy, so beware. A collapsible baton has been and can be lethal. So can a knife. I’m not sure this is what they were trying to prohibit. I don’t want to split hairs here, my guess is if it was made to be a weapon, unlike a baseball bat, then it might be prohibited. To be safe, become a ninja and register your hands with NY.
Hopefully, there is a happy medium in attempting to defend yourself. I will post my complete training program soon. I’m still putting it together.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
I’m a gun guy. I have been for most of my life. That’s one of the purposes of this blog is an outlet for my “gun-ness”. I have chosen a gun to defend me and mine. You may not lean this way. (Then why are you on a Gun blog?) And that is OK, not everyone is suited to lethal force. It’s a big responsibility. There are other weapons that I would recommend you looking into. I don’t like the thought of using a less than lethal weapon and my attacker just keeps coming. My goal is to stop the threat. But I also figure that something is better than nothing. Some out there would not agree. I do subscribe to the “close and engage” until the threat stops or leaves. Some of these weapons may just make an attacker mad. Some may be ineffective. So go into this with your eyes open. But with that being said I have given my wife and daughters pepper spray for their key rings. I’ve also given them some training. But I also know they don’t have the time nor the inclination to take additional training. So I figure reviewing materials and videos annually is good additional training. I’ll be the first to say that I don’t like all training I find on You tube. So I have waded through many videos to find the training I like and what I think is effective. So what I will suggest will be my opinion.
I have had the opportunity of being trained in many weapons. I had to qualify annually with pepper spray, a stun gun, and a baton. I’ve had several hand-to-hand combat classes but I do not know any of the martial arts disciplines. I have had some limited Kubotan training so I feel I can use a tactical pen effectively. I train with this a few times a year so I’m far from expert with it. I’ve had limited knife fighting training although I’ve had more defending against a knife than fighting with one. All of these things take some specialized training and practice.
Some say that pepper spray is dangerous. They maintain that it is more harmful than helpful in a fight. I do not agree but I have never had to use it to defend myself. If you get the right spray and train with it some I think it can be effective. Pepper-spray is also more acceptable than a gun in many environments. I would recommend Saber brand spray in the “stream”. I’ve used others and found Saber to be the most reliable and best for my use.
I like a Youtube channel called “Pretty Loaded”. It is a channel focused on women’s defense and security. They have a video you should check out comparing pepper-sprays. Check it out:
https://youtu.be/V94L5XnBt-0
They have lots of videos with safety and security tips.
This is their Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqZ6rEhM0qtjCn3XWyMZ4Sw
There are classes available in many places so ask at your gun store or look on community websites.
Expandable batons are the modern day stick. We haven’t progress very far have we? I like these weapons because used properly they can make a lot of difference in defending yourself. They are not expensive or hard to use. Training is important because these weapons can be lethal used incorrectly.
Stun guns is a general term sometimes used for many different kinds of electro-shock devices. They come in several forms. The industry puts them into 2 categories. Stun guns and Tasers.
Stun guns are close proximity devices that use high-voltage electricity to stop an attacker by momentarily disabling muscle control. To use, simply pull the trigger and touch the aggressor with the metal prongs. I think training with a up close and personal weapon such as this requires at least some remedial training. These come in all shapes and sizes with varying voltages. They are also more cost effective. But beware of cheap, fly-by-night models. These weapons do not require a background check.
Tasers are usually shaped like a gun and have probes that shoot out. This is better if you are looking for more distance between you and your attacker. They are designed to go through up to 2 inch thick clothing. A background check is required if you live in MD or MN. They are also more expensive than stun guns. You also need replacement cartridges if the device is ever used. But if you use your Taser and leave it to escape an assailant Taser will replace the device at no cost to you.
I own some stun guns but I’m not the biggest fan. I just like having the option if needed.
A Tactical Pen is a very useful tool. I carry one everywhere. Especially into environments that would be considered non-permissive. I’ve flown with one and gone into prisons with one. I’ve never had to pen confiscated or detected. That has been my experience. You may have another experience but I hope not. What I like about a Tac pen is that they look like a pen and write like a pen. They don’t look like a weapon. A kubotan is a keychain self-defense weapon. It was first developed by Japanese American karate master Takayuki Kubota. It’s a stick self-defense weapon. They are usually five to six inches long. They are made of hard materials, like steel, hard plastic or wood. Kubotans are usually used as a keychain. They then serve the dual purposes of a key ring and a self-defense weapon.
The kubotan was first made for use by the Los Angeles Police Department. Kubota based the design on the “hashi” stick, which Kubota’s father had invented. Small stick weapons of this type have been used in martial arts for centuries. The Japanese Yawara is a similar type of weapon. Kubotans are used by many police forces and by military personnel. This is what I consider my Tac pen. A Kubotan in pen form.
As with all things, get trained.
Hand-to hand combat is very useful. You can learn some moves and techniques that you can practice without a lot of training. But, get as much training as you can. Learning some self-defense moves is the least that I would recommend. Taking a class or asking someone you can trust to teach you some things would expand your portfolio of options. Practice these things to build muscle memory and keep the concepts fresh.
Last but not least is a knife. Many people carry a knife. I would recommend carrying one because they are versatile. Fighting with one requires training and practice also. Like shooting a gun twice a year, practicing knife fighting needs to be often and effective. It takes some skill to not hurt yourself or kill an attacker. Please get hands on training if you are serious about using a knife in self-defense. I’ve seen fairly experienced people do some damage to themselves or others because of their lack of training or practice. I see a lot of people carrying a folder knife but few of them could actually use one effectively. Some say it’s better to have it than to not. I agree, but be responsible enough to get trained! Pulling a knife on the wrong person could find your own knife plunged into your chest!
The above talks limitedly about less than lethal weapons available. I would recommend learning some hand-to-hand moves. I’d also recommend pepper spray, a Tac pen, and a baton. The others I talked about are OK too but these 4 I like. None of them are difficult to be effective with. All require training and practice.
I cannot emphasize enough the importance of training and practice!
You should also get training in situational awareness and my favorite ADD, avoid, deter and de-escalate. Learning Threat indicators and reading people is also something that can save you or someone else.
I recommend some books that will assist with your training:
“Principles of Personal Defense” by Jeff Cooper
“The Gift of Fear” by Gavin DeBecker
“On Killing” and “On Combat” by Lt. Col. Dave Grossman
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints changed its firearms policy so here is an adapting solution. Problem is, “lethal weapon” to many means deadly. I’m not sure the Church wanted ambiguity here but they’ve got it. Clearly guns are lethal. But what about a knife? Or a baseball bat? I’ve seen both of these in a chapel before but are they prohibited now? I’m not expecting a list, but if you don’t want guns just say so. My advice above may not follow this new policy, so beware. A collapsible baton has been and can be lethal. So can a knife. I’m not sure this is what they were trying to prohibit. I don’t want to split hairs here, my guess is if it was made to be a weapon, unlike a baseball bat, then it might be prohibited. To be safe, become a ninja and register your hands with NY.
Hopefully, there is a happy medium in attempting to defend yourself. I will post my complete training program soon. I’m still putting it together.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Monday, September 9, 2019
Overwatch: Drill of the Month For September
September 2019
The shooter will stand with their back to the range. Someone else will load their first magazine. Round count is unknown to the shooter, they may get three rounds or maybe seven. The first magazine is never full and may have a Snap Cap or two in it. The second magazine is loaded to capacity.
While this is happening, someone else is down range moving the targets. We use blue for no shoot and red for double taps. The target arrangement is different for each shooter. Also we place garbage cans on the firing line, the shooter must maneuver around these or use as cover while clearing a Snap Cap or performing a magazine change.
When we’re ready to go hot, the shooter is handed their first magazine. They chamber a round and re-holster and wait for the command to fire. Then, the shooter will turn, draw and engage. The shooter is never static, move and shoot. Magazine changes and Snap Cap clearing must be done from cover.
(I’m sorry, I do not have a reference for this drill. I had where it was from and somehow it did not come with the drill. If you know where this drill is from please let me know.)
See “Overwatch: Drill of the Month” page for more drills
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
The shooter will stand with their back to the range. Someone else will load their first magazine. Round count is unknown to the shooter, they may get three rounds or maybe seven. The first magazine is never full and may have a Snap Cap or two in it. The second magazine is loaded to capacity.
While this is happening, someone else is down range moving the targets. We use blue for no shoot and red for double taps. The target arrangement is different for each shooter. Also we place garbage cans on the firing line, the shooter must maneuver around these or use as cover while clearing a Snap Cap or performing a magazine change.
When we’re ready to go hot, the shooter is handed their first magazine. They chamber a round and re-holster and wait for the command to fire. Then, the shooter will turn, draw and engage. The shooter is never static, move and shoot. Magazine changes and Snap Cap clearing must be done from cover.
(I’m sorry, I do not have a reference for this drill. I had where it was from and somehow it did not come with the drill. If you know where this drill is from please let me know.)
See “Overwatch: Drill of the Month” page for more drills
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Saturday, September 7, 2019
Porter Rockwell and Loren Dibble: When Not To Shoot
If you’ve read this blog you will know of my affinity for Orrin Porter Rockwell. I like his style. He had a reputation for being a killer but I feel that so many other things he did make that myth not as strong as some historians or writers would like. He was a rough guy. I feel like I’m a rough guy. I don’t identify with his killing but his attitude. He was quite “in your face” and that’s what I like about him. He was loyal to the Church and to two prophets who depended on him. I can identify with that too. His rep was steeped in myth. On the Main Street of Lehi, Utah, someone tried his hand at killing and defeating Orrin Porter Rockwell and his myth. Lehi City court documents recorded the events of June 25, 1873 as an "affray," or the “the fighting of two or more persons in a public place, and to the terror of others.” This affray began as a young outlaw named Loren Dibble approached Porter Rockwell in broad daylight, drew two guns, and emptied them at him. According to onlookers, Rockwell simply stood still, staring directly back at Dibble, without even having his composure ruffled. When Dibble had fired all of twelve shots, Rockwell drew his own two revolvers and shot at Dibble’s feet, making the young outlaw "dance" to avoid being hit by each bullet. When Rockwell had emptied both of his own guns, he walked directly up to Dibble, grabbed him by his collar, and shook him like a rag doll. Rockwell yelled into Loren Dibble’s face “If it wasn’t for the fact that I know who your father really was, I’d have killed you!” Rockwell threw him to the ground, and walked away. This comment about Dibble’s father was not understood at the time, by those present, but has more recently come to be understood through genealogy and DNA tracing that Dibble was the son of Joseph Smith, through one of Smith’s polygamous wives. Few other outlaws were given the benefit of having their lives spared by Porter Rockwell. Rockwell was known to kill too soon, sometimes without sufficient justification for taking a life. I’ve always had the impression that Porter was selective about his killing and knew when not to shoot. He carried a sawed barreled, 8 inch, first generation Colt single action Navy revolver chambered in .36 caliber. Porter was ahead of his time. Many cautious men hid a Derringer but he understood the importance of concealed carry. He even filed off the trigger guard for better concealability.
Porter was extremely skilled in handling firearms. After his home was literally torn apart by mobs (the roof, the walls, and the floorboards torn apart by marauders on horseback while his terrified wife stood looking on), Porter resolved that he would never be unarmed again, and he went into the woods to practice his shooting skills until no one was his equal with a weapon.
The Salt Lake Tribune said of Porter: “Porter Rockwell the Chief of the Danite Band Shuffles Off in a Stable – and Cheats the Hangman of a Worthy Candidate.” The editorial then spoke of the despicable acts he had committed in his life, including participation in “at least a hundred murders for the Church, none of which he ever divulged.”
The Salt Lake Tribune was a rag in 1878 and I think it still is a rag.
Then at Porter’s funeral Apostle Joseph F. Smith said: “They say he was a murderer; if he was he was the friend of Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, and he was faithful to them, and to his covenants, and he has gone to Heaven and apostates can go to Hell… Porter Rockwell was yesterday afternoon ushered into Heaven clothed with immortality and eternal life, and crowned with all glory which belongs to a departed saint. He has his little faults but Porter’s life on earth, taken altogether, was one worthy of example, and reflected honor upon the church. Through all his trials he had never once forgotten his obligations to his brethren and his God.” Do we believe the The Salt Lake rag? Or an Apostle of God. Porter Rockwell was at the least a great story to tell.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Porter was extremely skilled in handling firearms. After his home was literally torn apart by mobs (the roof, the walls, and the floorboards torn apart by marauders on horseback while his terrified wife stood looking on), Porter resolved that he would never be unarmed again, and he went into the woods to practice his shooting skills until no one was his equal with a weapon.
The Salt Lake Tribune said of Porter: “Porter Rockwell the Chief of the Danite Band Shuffles Off in a Stable – and Cheats the Hangman of a Worthy Candidate.” The editorial then spoke of the despicable acts he had committed in his life, including participation in “at least a hundred murders for the Church, none of which he ever divulged.”
The Salt Lake Tribune was a rag in 1878 and I think it still is a rag.
Then at Porter’s funeral Apostle Joseph F. Smith said: “They say he was a murderer; if he was he was the friend of Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, and he was faithful to them, and to his covenants, and he has gone to Heaven and apostates can go to Hell… Porter Rockwell was yesterday afternoon ushered into Heaven clothed with immortality and eternal life, and crowned with all glory which belongs to a departed saint. He has his little faults but Porter’s life on earth, taken altogether, was one worthy of example, and reflected honor upon the church. Through all his trials he had never once forgotten his obligations to his brethren and his God.” Do we believe the The Salt Lake rag? Or an Apostle of God. Porter Rockwell was at the least a great story to tell.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Thursday, September 5, 2019
The Church's New Firearms Policy and Me
(My wife didn’t want me to write this article. She thought I would go off my PTSD rocker and say some things that would land me in my Stake Presidents office with him asking me to take down my post or be banished to the land of Sam Young and Kate Kelly over something as trivial as a cause. No hunger strike for me (although I could lose a few pounds). I assured her, that before I’d even get a good talking to by my priesthood leaders I’d pull down this post, my Blog, my Facebook page, my Instagram account, my You Tube account, my comments on every gun forum and blog I’ve ever looked at, and cancel my library card! It’s not that I’m a wimp and am afraid that my membership is in jeopardy every time I even look at buying Pepsi, because I know my leaders are reasonable and measured men and inspired. What I mean is, not very much is worth my membership in Christ’s Church. So, here is my “scalding” post.)
Well they’ve done it. The Church that I love and have been a very active member of my entire life has backed me into a corner. Break policy or follow policy? Break policy or follow policy? Break policy or follow policy? That is my dilemma. I want to be obedient. I’ve been taught the importance of obedience all my life. So, not only has the policy on firearms changed, but the change has been made so public that all the crazies know! And I’m not just referring to mainstream media.
I first shot a gun when I was 8 years old. It was a .22 caliber, lever action Savage on my Uncle’s farm. We shot cans off a fence just like in the movies. I thought I was pretty good! I shot my first buck in Arizona with my Uncle’s 30-06 at age 12. It was a clean shot that dropped the deer where it stood. I stopped hunting when I got back from my mission. I don’t mind the hunt, it’s the field dressing and processing I don’t like. A few years ago a friend of mine gave me a deer. The head was already gone, it was gutted, and skinned. I had it sitting on the kitchen table (on plastic man, I’m married!) fully intending to quarter it, and wrap the meat for freezing. I looked at it and took it to a butcher who processes deer. That’s how much I dislike taking care of an animal. It was almost done and I still didn’t want to do it! Anyway, I digress. When I was in the military I was a small arms instructor and NRA instructor. I also had the “opportunity” to use a gun against shots fired at me in anger. I had the opportunity to train military, local, state, and federal law enforcement, and civilians how to shoot safely, and accurately. I have carried a concealed weapon for more than 25 years. I do not share this in a vain attempt to toot my own horn, but to explain my experience with guns. And now my Church says I’m not qualified or authorized to carry a weapon on their property. That makes me quite sad. The policy says this:
21.2.4
Firearms
Churches are dedicated for the worship of God and as havens from the cares and concerns of the world. With the exception of current law enforcement officers, the carrying of lethal weapons on Church property, concealed or otherwise, is prohibited.
So not only can I not carry a gun, but even a knife would be prohibited. Even though there are several in every LDS chapel’s kitchen drawers.
I am stunned by this policy. I will not voice here what I think of this policy except that I fear I will break it repeatedly. In fact, I just broke it last Sunday. As you can see, I am struggling with this obedience. I’m not really sure what to do. I want to comply but also want to defend my family. I’m not sure who my church thinks is going to defend me and my family, and anyone else for that matter, should evil walk through their doors. It has happened and I predict, will happen again. So I say, “Do you expect the police to protect me?” I’m not sure how they can do that, even though I’d love them to! I don’t really want to shoot at another human being again. It was not very fun the first time!
The Family Proclamation to the World says:
“By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families.”
Apparently that does not apply to me anymore.
I’m not sure what the brethren mean by “protection” but the Saints in Venezuela and other countries may have a different definition of the word from South Jordan, Utah is all I’m saying.
The prophet Moroni in Alma 46:12 wrote this as the title of liberty:
12 And it came to pass that he rent his coat; and he took a piece thereof, and wrote upon it- In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children- and he fastened it upon the end of a pole.
I wonder how the police where I live can enforce this title if a nut case walks into my Sacrament meeting with an AK? Because my wife and my children may just be a memory if there is no one there to defend them. Maybe the crazed gunman will follow the policy… criminals and terrorists being such law-abiding citizens. I apologize for the sarcasm.
I do not understand the logic of this policy change. It is similar to gun control protecting me. How can any law protect anyone against those who break laws!? I guess it will stop law abiding people from bringing a gun into a church building and having a negligent discharge like what happened in Provo the beginning of this year. Oh wait, the church already had a policy of no guns in Utah chapels. I’d like to ask the Church how that worked out for them? I guess they could prosecute the 70 something year old man for breaking policy and Utah law.
Please don’t misunderstand. I love the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I believe it to be the Lord’s church here upon the earth. I sustain and support our leadership from the prophet and apostles down to my Bishop. I’m his counselor, I love and sustain this man. This is why I’m in such a quandary about this policy. By the way, I can disagree with policy and still agree with doctrine. But I must tread lightly because it’s a slippery slope. I can give up my opinion for my membership if need be. I’m not trying to fight this policy but understand it. Do we really want a “Gun-free” zone on Church property? Is that not an invitation to every mentally ill or disillusioned ex-member to come and get us? If you Google LDS firearms policy you’ll see many articles from August of this year from CNN to the Washington Post. The cat is waaay out of the bag. Some headlines even say the church has made their “parishiners” sitting ducks and “Mormon Leaders ban guns at church”! I have been concerned about security in an LDS Church before, now I’m alarmed! This is my solution. Maybe a lame solution, but one all the same.
If the Church is reluctant to put together some type of security team or security duty and train them a little, at least give some mandatory security training. We‘re asked to take a youth/child protection training why not some security training? My vision for this would be starting with leadership. We are a church of inclusion and missionary service. We have a sign on our chapels that says “Visitors Welcome” and we mean it! But with that comes a responsibility to keep everyone safe. I would start with situational awareness training. Then I would give key people (ushers, leaders) some threat assessment and threat demeanor or expression identification training. What does a criminal look like when contemplating violent intent? Maybe some body language. I took a course from the State department in the 80’s that covered this. Get a more basic curriculum and “civilian” it down to understandable things to look for. This, to me, would be the least the Church could do. This training can be made to be international. Maybe localize it to countries that have specific problems. Make some videos for us to watch and repeat it annually. If we can’t have armed guards and can’t arm ourselves, at least give us something other than calling 9-1-1 and waiting 5 to 15 minutes until after the event is over to get help. I know this does not seem like a very faithful attitude. I do have faith but I also believe in preparation. I’m afraid the Church is too worried about how the general membership would react to the possibility of a threat. But I also know that Church Security knows exactly what the threat is. To be honest, knowing we have a security department tells you that there is some kind of threat out there! I plead with that department, “If I can’t have a gun in church, how can I protect my family? Please give us some training!”
And so goes my plight. Do I ignore this policy and rationalize its existence to the Church being a world organization? Or should I comply and learn how to get off the stand under fire?
I can tell you right now that my family will get this training. They have already been subject to me teaching them how to shoot, have situational awareness, and use pepper spray. We’ve even taken some hand-to-hand combat training together. I will find the proper videos and materials and train them myself. I just wish the Church would do something other than tell me “It will never happen here!” I have tracked shootings on Church property for some time. I’m here to tell you that it has happened multiple times. It averages once or twice a year. Some have been suicide but only a few. So I know that it happens.
At the risk of a rant, I want to re-cap. I’m having problems with being told I can’t carry a gun in church but the people I train can. And if I can’t carry what is the alternative? And if kids get trained for active shooters in school, and their parents get it at work, where does that leave the Church? I know that the Lord can step in and save us all. But He helps those who help themselves! Maybe President Nelson knows something I don’t. Actually, I know he knows LOTS more than I do. I hope the guys that advise him know a little about security and defense.
Anyone have any thoughts on this?
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Well they’ve done it. The Church that I love and have been a very active member of my entire life has backed me into a corner. Break policy or follow policy? Break policy or follow policy? Break policy or follow policy? That is my dilemma. I want to be obedient. I’ve been taught the importance of obedience all my life. So, not only has the policy on firearms changed, but the change has been made so public that all the crazies know! And I’m not just referring to mainstream media.
I first shot a gun when I was 8 years old. It was a .22 caliber, lever action Savage on my Uncle’s farm. We shot cans off a fence just like in the movies. I thought I was pretty good! I shot my first buck in Arizona with my Uncle’s 30-06 at age 12. It was a clean shot that dropped the deer where it stood. I stopped hunting when I got back from my mission. I don’t mind the hunt, it’s the field dressing and processing I don’t like. A few years ago a friend of mine gave me a deer. The head was already gone, it was gutted, and skinned. I had it sitting on the kitchen table (on plastic man, I’m married!) fully intending to quarter it, and wrap the meat for freezing. I looked at it and took it to a butcher who processes deer. That’s how much I dislike taking care of an animal. It was almost done and I still didn’t want to do it! Anyway, I digress. When I was in the military I was a small arms instructor and NRA instructor. I also had the “opportunity” to use a gun against shots fired at me in anger. I had the opportunity to train military, local, state, and federal law enforcement, and civilians how to shoot safely, and accurately. I have carried a concealed weapon for more than 25 years. I do not share this in a vain attempt to toot my own horn, but to explain my experience with guns. And now my Church says I’m not qualified or authorized to carry a weapon on their property. That makes me quite sad. The policy says this:
21.2.4
Firearms
Churches are dedicated for the worship of God and as havens from the cares and concerns of the world. With the exception of current law enforcement officers, the carrying of lethal weapons on Church property, concealed or otherwise, is prohibited.
So not only can I not carry a gun, but even a knife would be prohibited. Even though there are several in every LDS chapel’s kitchen drawers.
I am stunned by this policy. I will not voice here what I think of this policy except that I fear I will break it repeatedly. In fact, I just broke it last Sunday. As you can see, I am struggling with this obedience. I’m not really sure what to do. I want to comply but also want to defend my family. I’m not sure who my church thinks is going to defend me and my family, and anyone else for that matter, should evil walk through their doors. It has happened and I predict, will happen again. So I say, “Do you expect the police to protect me?” I’m not sure how they can do that, even though I’d love them to! I don’t really want to shoot at another human being again. It was not very fun the first time!
The Family Proclamation to the World says:
“By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families.”
Apparently that does not apply to me anymore.
I’m not sure what the brethren mean by “protection” but the Saints in Venezuela and other countries may have a different definition of the word from South Jordan, Utah is all I’m saying.
The prophet Moroni in Alma 46:12 wrote this as the title of liberty:
12 And it came to pass that he rent his coat; and he took a piece thereof, and wrote upon it- In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children- and he fastened it upon the end of a pole.
I wonder how the police where I live can enforce this title if a nut case walks into my Sacrament meeting with an AK? Because my wife and my children may just be a memory if there is no one there to defend them. Maybe the crazed gunman will follow the policy… criminals and terrorists being such law-abiding citizens. I apologize for the sarcasm.
I do not understand the logic of this policy change. It is similar to gun control protecting me. How can any law protect anyone against those who break laws!? I guess it will stop law abiding people from bringing a gun into a church building and having a negligent discharge like what happened in Provo the beginning of this year. Oh wait, the church already had a policy of no guns in Utah chapels. I’d like to ask the Church how that worked out for them? I guess they could prosecute the 70 something year old man for breaking policy and Utah law.
Please don’t misunderstand. I love the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I believe it to be the Lord’s church here upon the earth. I sustain and support our leadership from the prophet and apostles down to my Bishop. I’m his counselor, I love and sustain this man. This is why I’m in such a quandary about this policy. By the way, I can disagree with policy and still agree with doctrine. But I must tread lightly because it’s a slippery slope. I can give up my opinion for my membership if need be. I’m not trying to fight this policy but understand it. Do we really want a “Gun-free” zone on Church property? Is that not an invitation to every mentally ill or disillusioned ex-member to come and get us? If you Google LDS firearms policy you’ll see many articles from August of this year from CNN to the Washington Post. The cat is waaay out of the bag. Some headlines even say the church has made their “parishiners” sitting ducks and “Mormon Leaders ban guns at church”! I have been concerned about security in an LDS Church before, now I’m alarmed! This is my solution. Maybe a lame solution, but one all the same.
If the Church is reluctant to put together some type of security team or security duty and train them a little, at least give some mandatory security training. We‘re asked to take a youth/child protection training why not some security training? My vision for this would be starting with leadership. We are a church of inclusion and missionary service. We have a sign on our chapels that says “Visitors Welcome” and we mean it! But with that comes a responsibility to keep everyone safe. I would start with situational awareness training. Then I would give key people (ushers, leaders) some threat assessment and threat demeanor or expression identification training. What does a criminal look like when contemplating violent intent? Maybe some body language. I took a course from the State department in the 80’s that covered this. Get a more basic curriculum and “civilian” it down to understandable things to look for. This, to me, would be the least the Church could do. This training can be made to be international. Maybe localize it to countries that have specific problems. Make some videos for us to watch and repeat it annually. If we can’t have armed guards and can’t arm ourselves, at least give us something other than calling 9-1-1 and waiting 5 to 15 minutes until after the event is over to get help. I know this does not seem like a very faithful attitude. I do have faith but I also believe in preparation. I’m afraid the Church is too worried about how the general membership would react to the possibility of a threat. But I also know that Church Security knows exactly what the threat is. To be honest, knowing we have a security department tells you that there is some kind of threat out there! I plead with that department, “If I can’t have a gun in church, how can I protect my family? Please give us some training!”
And so goes my plight. Do I ignore this policy and rationalize its existence to the Church being a world organization? Or should I comply and learn how to get off the stand under fire?
I can tell you right now that my family will get this training. They have already been subject to me teaching them how to shoot, have situational awareness, and use pepper spray. We’ve even taken some hand-to-hand combat training together. I will find the proper videos and materials and train them myself. I just wish the Church would do something other than tell me “It will never happen here!” I have tracked shootings on Church property for some time. I’m here to tell you that it has happened multiple times. It averages once or twice a year. Some have been suicide but only a few. So I know that it happens.
At the risk of a rant, I want to re-cap. I’m having problems with being told I can’t carry a gun in church but the people I train can. And if I can’t carry what is the alternative? And if kids get trained for active shooters in school, and their parents get it at work, where does that leave the Church? I know that the Lord can step in and save us all. But He helps those who help themselves! Maybe President Nelson knows something I don’t. Actually, I know he knows LOTS more than I do. I hope the guys that advise him know a little about security and defense.
Anyone have any thoughts on this?
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
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