Tactical Training for Your Family

Family Training

Broad & Inclusive Training

No one is safe at all if they only learn how to protect themselves in one type of situation. That is why even if you are focusing on one specific discipline of tactical training you will find that it is both broad and inclusive of a variety of potential scenarios. Any good tactical training course will provide you with multiple situations to overcome, preparing you for a variety of both physical and psychological tasks associated with your survival. Yes, you can learn to shoot the same menacing looking targets in different orders each time at the gun range, but this only covers one scenario and is not effective tactical training. True tactical training will also call on more than one level of physical and psychological needs at any given time, to ensure you are well rounded and prepared for any situation. A good tactical training session might even appear chaotic, but they are highly structured to call on multiple skills to test a trainee. If you can use your range of skills to make sense and survive the situation, the chaos melts away, which is exactly what you are hoping to be able to apply to a real-life scenario.

I had my family learn how to shoot, how to use pepper spray, and how to grapple.  We talked about tactical thinking and situational awareness all the time.  Try to be versatile. 

Drills

Remember you can help prepare your family with tactical training as well. There is a fine line between preparing and scaring your children, so always consider their age and understanding level in every training scenario. Drills, however, are important and can give you the lifesaving seconds you need in a disaster scenario. Many families have fire drills for instance, so considering a few potential events and outcomes that your loved ones can practice, increasing your chance of survival is a form of tactical training that can keep your whole family safe and better prepared.

Keys to Good Tactical Training

• Avoid highly specialized training classes and events. While it is good to practice in specific ways, broad range courses are best for beginners, so you can build a solid skill set. You can go on to more specialized training down the road.
• Look for a course with scenario-based training as it can help prepare you psychologically, as well as physically.
• Hone your instincts. One of the goals of tactical training is to take actions from being intellectual to instinctual. In high-stress situations, if you can rely on your instincts to help in your defense you have a higher chance of surviving a confrontation. Any few seconds you can spare in mental processing and decision making, due to effective, tactical training could be lifesaving.
• Self-defense is a lifelong journey. You must adopt it as part of your regular life and commit to continually practice if you want to truly become a master in the art of self-defense and be able to defend yourself no matter what the situation brings

·         One of the most popular forms of civilian tactical training  is with the use of firearms. Ranges offer tactical shooting courses that provide you situations that represent more realistic scenarios, rather than just standing at one end of a range and shooting at a stationary target. Classes are often the best course for many, however, if you do have the property, or can find a place where you can lawfully fire the rounds, you may consider setting up tactical training courses of your own. Remember that the element of surprise is a huge aspect of tactical training. If you do set up your own course, you will need a partner who can change the targets and situations to create a unique training experience every time.

 

Psychological Aspects of Tactical Training

·         Tactical training requires a level of psychological involvement that is simply not applied in ordinary self-defense training approaches. Of course, learning a specific technical skill for defense is extremely important. However, a technical skill that is only mastered in a controlled environment is only applicable to similar controlled environments, not to situations in the real world. In order to learn a technical skill that will be helpful in any situation, you must be conditioned psychologically as well as physically. With the psychological aspect of tactical training in mind, you will practice your technical skill in a variety of anticipated states, considering factors like stress or exhaustion.

·         Preparing your mind for the possibility of these stressful situations will enable you to perform with greater effectiveness when an actual disaster occurs.

 

Hoplology

·         Not all tactical training is physical in nature, and hoplology is a great place for many beginners to start. As with most things, research can be a huge asset to a person’s self-defense repertoire. Hoplology is the study of the development of human combative behavior and performance. It is in short, the relationship between different cultures in regards to how and why we fight. Becoming a student of hoplology opens you up to a slightly different tactical approach. Taking the knowledge of why and how we fight into consideration can give you a slight advantage when engaging in combat with a potential assailant. Studying other cultures and fighting techniques can also give you an advantage when approached with any self-defense situation as not only can you anticipate what might be coming, but you can take appropriate action to combat it as well.

There are many ways to improve your family’s training.  Tactical is just one of them.  Find a course, or person, who can teach tactical training in a simple way that is understandable to your entire family.  Develop or find drills that can be practiced easily.  Make it fun for the whole family and you will find that not only is your family prepared and safe, but healthy and happy.

Semper Paratus

Check 6

Burn

Tactical Knives EDC Essentials

 

Tactical knives have lots of uses.  The uses of the knife I carry as a civilian is different from the uses I had while in the military.  I carried two knives in the military, a tactical folder and a fixed blade fighting knife.  I pulled the fighting knife in defense only once, but I used the folder a million times in many uses.  As a civilian my needs are completely different.  I don’t ever plan to use a knife in defense, although I’ve had training to use it that way.  It would be an absolute last resort for me.  So when I look at a knife, I look at it two fold, utility and defense.  Unless it’s a neck knife, I would only carry a tactical folder.  On my bug out bag and tac vest are fixed blade fighting knives.  Often, my multi-tool knife blade is the only knife I have with me.  But I have several tactical folders.

One of the first thing I will look at is the manufacturer.  I know you often pay for a name, but there is a reason for that.  Most brands I can trust because they have a reputation.  Once in a while a brand name will put out a cheap model.  I’ve seen it in Schrade and Buck.  These brands are usually very good but you have to inspect a less pricy blade to make sure.  Usually you get what you pay for unfortunately. 

You should look for balance, blades that don’t wobble, positive locking systems and ease of deployment.

 Steel

The steel used in knife making is the soul of the blade. Every aspect of knife making is a compromise. A blade that holds an edge well could be the one that is harder to sharpen or so inflexible that it could snap when given lateral stress. A blade that has the best edge could also be the one that oxidizes or stains easily.

Creating a knife blade is part science, part art. Knife makers can control the characteristics of a blade by the type of steel, the way it is formed, the shape of the blade and the way it is tempered. Knife makers are constantly on a quest for better steel and modern tool-steels are getting better.

It is impossible to rate knife steels from best to worst. It is also impossible to guess the tempering of the tool just by looking at it. It is possible, however, to make a few recommendations for knives based on a majority of cutting tasks. Steel performance takes into account strength, the blade’s ability to resist lateral stress, toughness, the blade’s ability to resist chipping, resistance to abrasion, and hardness. There are other factors, but knowing these major qualities is probably enough information to help select a knife. There are several common steels used for tactical knives, which include 440C, ATS 34 (154 CM), D2, and AUS 8. There are dozens of other types of steel, but this is a good start.

Locking Blade

A locking blade should be mandatory for folding knives. There are several different methods for keeping a blade locked open, including locks in the liner (the material that surrounds the blade when closed), and locks in the spine.

Should you get an automatic knife? Inherently, they are not as strong or reliable as a locking folder, but having said that, some automatics are like cousins of reliable locking mechanisms.  Make sure an assisted open knife is legal in your area or state.

Handle

Handle materials can be wood, plastic, aluminum or “micarta.” Micarta tends to be resistant to most elements and harder than other materials. Wood looks great but is harder to pin or epoxy in place. Aluminum tends to make the user sensitive to temperature extremes. Space Age materials similar to polymers are excellent for keeping the knife durable, low priced and lightweight. The handle’s materials, or scales, should be textured to improve the grip and hold it in the pocket until needed.

Knife makers began using Torx screws to secure the pocket clip, often offering the “tip up” or “tip down” option.  

Liner

The liner material is just as important as the handle. If the knife does not have a liner made of durable materials such as aluminum or steel, it is likely the hinge pin will loosen easily and the handle will fail under extreme use. Select a knife with a liner material that, put together, approximates the width of the blade; that is, the aluminum or steel that surrounds the blade when the knife is closed should be as thick as the blade itself. This will ensure the blade open smoothly, even when after you have been rolling on the ground a bit.

If there is no liner, the knife may have been assembled using steel pins in a plastic frame, or no pins in a molded frame. This is desirable in a lightweight knife, but not recommended.

Design

Tactical knives usually come in geometric, wedge-shaped reinforced designs, or drop-point utility designs. While the geometric designs are cool, the drop point ones will offer more consistent cutting surfaces. Double-edged blades also are eye candy, but not quite as useful.

Some blade makers have blade designs which open the blade upon their withdrawal from the pocket.  

Is it advisable to purchase a custom knife? A custom knife is a purchase made for pride in ownership.  If you can afford to purchase one, you will enjoy some of the intangible qualities of a good knife, like polished interiors (which make mechanisms buttery smooth), hand-selected materials, and custom tempering.

A moderately priced knife from a reputable manufacturer will give you years of use, with reliability and peace of mind.

Knives are important parts of EDC that are often taken for granted until they are needed.  I’ve always been picky about my knives, and I swear I’m not a knife guy.  But I have a large collection anyway.  I enjoy knives as works of art and in the same way I enjoy a good-looking gun.  But they will never replace my infatuation with firearms.

Semper Paratus

Check 6

Burn

Civilian Tactical Training

I had a conversation with a coworker today. He is concerned about his young family. He’s a guy in his 30’s with 2 kids and one on the way. He’s got a good job and good insurance. He’s saving some money and investing in a retirement. He’s got a house that should be paid off before his retirement. He’s fairly financial secure. Now he is concerned for his family’s physical security. He’s made sure his doors have plenty of locks and has created a “panic room” for his family to go to, but feels he needs to train them. His children are young but are old enough that they can understand the need for protection without being scared. I told him it starts with he and his wife. They need weapons training. Not only safety and operation of a weapon, but using that knowledge tactically. Tactical training for civilians should be general and scenario based. Many ranges offer tactical shooting courses that provide you situations that represent more realistic scenarios, rather than just standing at one end of a range and shooting at a stationary target. Classes are often the best course for many, however, if you do have the property, or can find a place where you can lawfully fire the rounds, you may consider setting up tactical training courses of your own. Remember that the element of surprise is a huge aspect of tactical training. If you do set up your own course, you will need a partner who can change the targets and situations to create a unique training experience every time. Tactical training requires a level of psychological involvement that is simply not applied in ordinary self-defense training approaches. Learning a specific, technical skill for defense is extremely important. But, a technical skill that is only mastered in a controlled environment is only applicable to similar controlled environments, not necessarily real world events. In order to learn a technical skill that will be helpful in any situation, you must be conditioned psychologically as well as physically. With the psychological aspect of tactical training in mind, you will practice your technical skill in a variety of anticipated states, considering factors like stress or exhaustion. Preparing your mind for the possibility of these stressful situations will enable you to perform with greater effectiveness when an actual disaster occurs. Not all tactical training is physical in nature, and hoplology is a great place for many beginners to start. As with most things, research can be a huge asset to a person’s self-defense repertoire. Hoplology is the study of the development of human combative behavior and performance. It is in short, the relationship between different cultures in regards to how and why we fight. Becoming a student of hoplology opens you up to a slightly different tactical approach . Taking the knowledge of why and how we fight into consideration can give you a slight advantage when engaging in combat with a potential assailant. Studying other cultures and fighting techniques can also give you an advantage when approached with any self-defense situation. Not only can you anticipate what might be coming, but you can take appropriate action to combat it as well. One of the things that helped me in combat was the chaos. I could focus on my own task at hand and block out the noise and confusion. When I was in high school my Mother couldn’t understand how I could study with music going. The chaos becomes like white noise, and I was able to concentrate on my task at hand. No one is safe if they only learn how to protect themselves in one type of situation. That is why even if you are focusing on one specific discipline of tactical training you will find that it is both broad and inclusive of a variety of potential scenarios. Any good tactical training course will provide you with multiple situations to overcome, preparing you for a variety of both physical and psychological tasks associated with your survival. Yes, you can learn to shoot the same menacing looking targets in different orders each time at the gun range, but this only covers one scenario and is not effective tactical training. True tactical training will also call on more than one level of physical and psychological needs at any given time, to ensure you are well rounded and prepared for any situation. A good tactical training session might even appear chaotic, but they are highly structured to call on multiple skills to test a student. If you can use your range of skills to make sense and survive the situation, the chaos leaves, which is exactly what you are hoping to be able to apply to a real-life scenario. You can help prepare your family with tactical training as well. There is a fine line between preparing and scaring your children, so always consider their age and understanding level in every training scenario. Drills, however, are important and can give you the life savings seconds you need in a disaster scenario. Many families have fire drills for instance, so considering a few potential events and outcomes that your loved ones can practice to increase your chance of survival is a form of tactical training that can keep your whole family safe and better prepared. There are several important points in tactical training. Avoid highly specialized training classes and events. While it is good to practice in specific ways, broad range courses are best for beginners, so you can build a solid skill set. You can go on to more specialized training down the road. Look for a course with scenario-based training as it can help prepare you psychologically, as well as physically. Hone your skills. One of the goals of tactical training is to take your actions from being intellectual to instinctual. If you’ve ever heard of “muscle memory” you’ll begin to understand using instincts. In high-stress situations, if you can rely on your instincts to help in your defense you have a higher chance of surviving a confrontation. Any few seconds you can spare in mental processing and decision making, due to effective, tactical training could be life-saving. Situational awareness is something you can practice away from the shooting range. Self-defense is a lifelong journey. You must adopt it as part of your regular life and commit to continually practice if you want to truly become a master in the art of self-defense and be able to defend yourself no matter what the situation brings. This mindset is something that can be practiced off the range also. Again I bring up the Cooper Color Codes. Condition White is unaware and unprepared. This is a condition you should try to avoid, as it means you will probably lose a fight. The only time that I’m in condition white is when I’m asleep. And even then, I wouldn’t consider myself unprepared; I’m just unaware. Condition Yellow is relaxed alert. Yellow means you are aware of what is happening around you, but you do not perceive a potential threat. Your mindset should be prepared to defend yourself if the need arises. Everywhere I go, I’m in Condition Yellow. I keep a pretty good watch on the people around me, and I’m continuously rating each person’s danger level in my mind. Condition Orange means that there is a potential threat that has gotten your attention. This can be almost anything and usually results in nothing, at which time you go back to yellow. Condition Orange basically means that if someone turns and I spot a firearm. Instantly, I determine what I’m going to do if he reaches for that gun. Condition Red means that you are in a lethal mode of mindset and will fight if the circumstances are warranted. In our make-believe scenario, the armed guy draws a gun from under his coat. At this point, I implement my action plan that was determined during Condition Orange. This doesn’t always mean fight. If there are too many innocents around or you don’t have the means, your best plan might be to wait and see what happens or even retreat and call the police. These levels are not situational awareness levels. These are a mindset to be in always. Even when you can’t be armed. Being tactically trained and having a security mindset is something anyone can do. It’s important in a prepared lifestyle. Semper Paratus Check 6 Burn

Food Storage and Fires

This is a list of fires that have happened within the last 18 months or so. Some have said this is a conspiracy against food production, or to cause shortages. I don’t know if I agree, but this list is not “normal” as the fact finders and the left has said. I think fires are fairly common in food related industries. I’m not so sure about the number of fires that are common, and I think the “fact finders” don’t know either. But regardless of who knows what, this many fires in this amount of time to food facilities is unusual at best. I’m not convinced it will cause shortages, but it will not help already spiraling prices. 1. 1/11/21 A fire that destroyed 75,000-square-foot processing plant in Fayetteville 2. 4/30/21 A fire ignited inside the Smithfield Foods pork processing plant in Monmouth, IL 3. 7/25/21 Three-alarm fire at Kellogg plant in Memphis, 170 emergency personnel responded to the call 4. 7/30/21 Firefighters on Friday battled a large fire at Tyson’s River Valley Ingredients plant in Hanceville, Alabama 5. 8/23/21 Fire crews were called to the Patak Meat Production company on Ewing Road in Austell 6. 9/13/21 A fire at the JBS beef plant in Grand Island, Neb., on Sunday night forced a halt to slaughter and fabrication lines 7. 10/13/21 A five-alarm fire ripped through the Darigold butter production plant in Caldwell, ID 8. 11/15/21 A woman is in custody following a fire at the Garrard County Food Pantry 9. 11/29/21 A fire broke out around 5:30 p.m. at the Maid-Rite Steak Company meat processing plant 10. 12/13/21 West Side food processing plant in San Antonio left with smoke damage after a fire 11. 1/7/22 Damage to a poultry processing plant on Hamilton’s Mountain following an overnight fire 12. 1/13/22 Firefighters worked for 12 hours to put a fire out at the Cargill-Nutrena plant in Lecompte, LA 13. 1/31/22 a fertilizer plant with 600 tons of ammonium nitrate inside caught on fire on Cherry Street in Winston-Salem 14. 2/3/22 A massive fire swept through Wisconsin River Meats in Mauston 15. 2/3/22 At least 130 cows were killed in a fire at Percy Farm in Stowe 16. 2/15/22 Bonanza Meat Company goes up in flames in El Paso, Texas 17. 2/15/22 Nearly a week after the fire destroyed most of the Shearer’s Foods plant in Hermiston 18. 2/16/22 A fire had broken at US largest soybean processing and biodiesel plant in Claypool, Indiana 19. 2/18/22 An early morning fire tore through the milk parlor at Bess View Farm 20. 2/19/22 Three people were injured, and one was hospitalized, after an ammonia leak at Lincoln Premium Poultry in Fremont 21. 2/22/22 The Shearer’s Foods plant in Hermiston caught fire after a propane boiler exploded 22. 2/28/22 A smoldering pile of sulfur quickly became a raging chemical fire at Nutrien Ag Solutions 23. 2/28/22 A man was hurt after a fire broke out at the Shadow Brook Farm and Dutch Girl Creamery 24. 3/4/22 294,800 chickens destroyed at farm in Stoddard, Missouri 25. 3/4/22 644,000 chickens destroyed at egg farm in Cecil, Maryland 26. 3/8/22 243,900 chickens destroyed at egg farm in New Castle, Delaware 27. 3/10/22 663,400 chickens destroyed at egg farm in Cecil, MD 28. 3/10/22 915,900 chickens destroyed at egg farm in Taylor, IA 29. 3/14/22 The blaze at 244 Meadow Drive was discovered shortly after 5 p.m. by farm owner Wayne Hoover 30. 3/14/22 2,750,700 chickens destroyed at egg farm in Jefferson, Wisconsin 31. 3/16/22 A fire at a Walmart warehouse distribution center has cast a large plume of smoke visible throughout Indianapolis. 32. 3/16/22 Nestle Food Plant extensively damaged in fire and new production destroyed Jonesboro, Arkansas 33. 3/17/22 5,347,500 chickens destroyed at egg farm in Buena Vista, Iowa 34. 3/17/22 147,600 chickens destroyed at farm in Kent, Delaware 35. 3/18/22 315,400 chickens destroyed at egg farm in Cecil, Maryland 36. 3/22/22 172,000 Turkeys destroyed on farms in South Dakota 37. 3/22/22 570,000 chickens destroyed at farm in Butler, Nebraska 38. 3/24/22 Fire fighters from numerous towns are battling a major fire at the McCrum potato processing facility in Belfast. 39. 3/24/22 418,500 chickens destroyed at farm in Butler, Nebraska 40. 3/25/22 250,300 chickens destroyed at egg farm in Franklin, Iowa 41. 3/26/22 311,000 Turkeys destroyed in Minnesota 42. 3/27/22 126,300 Turkeys destroyed in South Dakota 43. 3/28/22 1,460,000 chickens destroyed at egg farm in Guthrie, Iowa 44. 3/29/22 A massive fire burned 40,000 pounds of food meant to feed people in a food desert near Maricopa 45. 3/31/22 A structure fire caused significant damage to a large portion of key fresh onion packing facilities in south Texas 46. 3/31/22 76,400 Turkeys destroyed in Osceola, Iowa 47. 3/31/22 5,011,700 chickens destroyed at egg farm in Osceola, Iowa 48. 4/6/22 281,600 chickens destroyed at farm in Wayne, North Carolina 49. 4/9/22 76,400 Turkeys destroyed in Minnesota 50. 4/9/22 208,900 Turkeys destroyed in Minnesota 51. 4/12/22 89,700 chickens destroyed at farm in Wayne, North Carolina 52. 4/12/22 1,746,900 chickens destroyed at egg farm in Dixon, Nebraska 53. 4/12/22 259,000 chickens destroyed at farm in Minnesota 54. 4/13/22 Fire destroys East Conway Beef & Pork Meat Market in Conway, New Hampshire 55. 4/13/22 Plane crashes into Gem State Processing, Idaho potato and food processing plant 56. 4/13/22 77,000 Turkeys destroyed in Minnesota 57. 4/14/22 Taylor Farms Food Processing plant burns down Salinas, California. 58. 4/14/22 99,600 Turkeys destroyed in Minnesota 59. 4/15/22 1,380,500 chickens destroyed at egg farm in Lancaster, Minnesota 60. 4/19/22 Azure Standard nation’s premier independent distributor of organic and healthy food, was destroyed by fire in Dufur, Oregon 61. 4/19/22 339,000 Turkeys destroyed in Minnesota 62. 4/19/22 58,000 chickens destroyed at farm in Montrose, Color 63. 4/20/22 2,000,000 chickens destroyed at egg farm in Minnesota 64. 4/21/22 A small plane crashed in the lot of a General Mills plant in Georgia 65. 4/22/22 197,000 Turkeys destroyed in Minnesota 66. 4/23/22 200,000 Turkeys destroyed in Minnesota 67. 4/25/22 1,501,200 chickens destroyed at egg farm Cache, Utah 68. 4/26/22 307,400 chickens destroyed at farm Lancaster Pennsylvania 69. 4/27/22 2,118,000 chickens destroyed at farm Knox, Nebraska 70. 4/28/22 Egg-laying facility in Iowa kills 5.3 million chickens, fires 200-plus workers 71. 4/28/22 Allen Harim Foods processing plant killed nearly 2M chickens in Delaware 72. 4/2822 110,700 Turkeys destroyed Barron Wisconsin 73. 4/29/22 1,366,200 chickens destroyed at farm Weld Colorado 74. 4/30/22 13,800 chickens destroyed at farm Sequoia Oklahoma 75. 5/3/22 58,000 Turkeys destroyed Barron Wisconsin 76. 5/3/22 118,900 Turkeys destroyed Beadle S Dakota 77. 5/3/22 114,000 ducks destroyed at Duck farm Berks Pennsylvania 78. 5/3/22 118,900 Turkeys destroyed Lyon Minnesota 79. 5/7/22 20,100 Turkeys destroyed Barron Wisconsin 80. 5/10/22 72,300 chickens destroyed at farm Lancaster Pennsylvania 81. 5/10/22 61,000 ducks destroyed at Duck farm Berks Pennsylvania 82. 5/10/22 35,100 Turkeys destroyed Muskegon, Michigan 83. 5/13/22 10,500 Turkeys destroyed Barron Wisconsin 84. 5/14/22 83,400 ducks destroyed at Duck farm Berks Pennsylvania 85. 5/17/22 79,00 chickens destroyed at Duck farm Berks Pennsylvania 86. 5/18/22 7,200 ducks destroyed at Duck farm Berks Pennsylvania 87. 5/19/22 Train carrying limestone derailed Jensen Beach FL 88. 5/21/22 57,000 Turkeys destroyed on farm in Dakota Minnesota 89. 5/23/22 4,000 ducks destroyed at Duck farm Berks Pennsylvania 90. 5/29/22 A Saturday night fire destroyed a poultry building at Forsman Farms 91. 5/31/22 3,000,000 chickens destroyed by fire at Forsman facility in Stockholm Township, Minnesota 92. 6/2/22 30,000 ducks destroyed at Duck farm Berks Pennsylvania 93. 6/7/22 A fire occurred Tuesday evening at the JBS meat packing plant in Green Bay. 94. 6/8/22 Firefighters from Tangipahoa Fire District 1 respond to a fire at the Purina Feed Mill in Arcola 95. 6/9/22 Irrigation water was canceled in California (the #1 producer of food in the US) and storage water flushed directly out to the delta. 96. 6/12/22 Largest Pork Company in the US Shuts Down California Plant Due to High Costs 97. 6/13/22 Fire Breaks Out at a Food Processing Plant West of Waupaca County in Wisconsin These fires are not “normal” as some would have you believe. I’m not shouting conspiracy but I do feel this is a crazy “coincidence”. Really? That’s what we’re supposed to believe? Riiiiight… Like I said, I believe it’s somewhere in between these extreme views. One thing that I do believe, this is not good for the food consumers in this country. I don’t think it would be out of line to prepare food for a time when it is either very expensive (fast approaching), or scarce (which is happening in some areas with some products). Look at your food storage program. Tweek it or add to it as you feel is needed. I’m not advocating hoarding or panic buying, but if you have no food storage, this is the time to start. If you have food storage, take a look at it and assess where it is and enhance where needed. These fires may mean nothing, or they may make a difference in availability. Either way, be prepared. Semper Paratus Check 6 Burn

New Years Plans For Defense

I hope that all of you had a good Christmas and a fun New Year. With the new year comes looking back but more importantly, looking forward. Most people start the new year off with trying to set goals and resolutions to become better in the upcoming year. I have done this and have hope for a chance to change and to improve. May I suggest goals for your preparation and defense? One of the goals I have is to improve my skills in the area of preparation. I come from a generation where using a tourniquet during a medical emergency was a “last resort.” We have been at war for 20 years now and we’ve learned some medical realities. One is that a tourniquet can save lives. So one of the skills I want to learn this quarter is how to effectively use a tourniquet. My goals are in a few areas. Spiritual, emotional/mental, Physical, preparedness/defense, and matrimonial. If you think that is too much pick the two or three most important of these and work on them. In the area of preparation I would suggest maybe taking inventory of your food/water, medical, and other preparation supplies. Write it down and put it in your computer. If you can assess where you are in your program, you can see where you would like to improve. If you have done very little, try to prioritize what you think is the most important. I would suggest working on water first. With water all you need to do is figure out where to store it, in what containers, and how to treat it. Water is pretty plentiful in this country and there are many ways to store it. It’s pretty easy. Next I would work on food storage. Then I would concentrate on medical. All of these have skills attached. In defense you might assess your home security. You may want to work on individual security in the form of self-defense. I have obviously chosen guns as personal and home protection. I don’t put all my eggs in one basket. I have trained and acquired equipment in other forms of defense and weapons. I think for the purpose of this article I will focus on defense. But I feel a well rounded preparation plan should be in place. Security and defense go hand in hand. Doing a security assessment on your home and property is a great idea to start off or to improve your plans. The same goes for defense. If you have small children talking about “stranger danger” or how to call for help if needed may need to be taught or reviewed. We have an “important phone numbers” that were near our phones when we had hard lines in our home. We still have those numbers posted in the same place as we always have so that everyone will know where it is. With cell phones, no one knows phone numbers anymore. I’ve also made small lists of these numbers to carry in my wallet if I ever need it. Without my phone I’m lost so I need a few back ups. I try to not rely on technology so much but it’s hard when it does so much. Evacuation (bug out) plans are a good idea too. Where will you meet if you have to leave and you’re not all together? Short term, where will you meet in case of fire? Do you have a place to go? Defensively, do you have any idea of the training you would like for you and your family this year? Taking a shooting course or martial arts, or even a class on how to use pepper spray would be good to plan for during the coming year. Reviewing what you have in place is always good at least once a year. Re-evaluating your ammo storage and plans you have for practice through-out the year would be good. Looking at your defensive skills and thinking about how you would like to improve or other things you’d like to learn is also benefit. One of the problems with preparing for defense is that we are taught our entire lives that we should not defend ourselves. When I played basketball as a youth I was taught to not retaliate if someone throws an elbow. If you do, you are usually the one called for a foul. As children we’re taught if we fight back we’ll both be expelled. Even the government teaches “Run, Hide, Fight” when it comes to an active shooter. Fight being the last resort. You Mother probably even taught you, “Violence never solved anything!” These are all true things but under the right conditions, defend yourself. I’m not saying fight instead of giving up your wallet, but sometimes more than the wallet is demanded. I subscribe to General Mattis’s saying “Be polite, be professional, but have a plan to kill everyone you meet.” When you get people to understand that there is such a thing as prosocial violence, that it is perfectly OK and they have a right to do it, then violence becomes a useful tool. Having a defensive mindset is most of the way to defense. Plan this year to learn what a defensive mindset is and how to develop one. Prepare for your own defense and make plans to improve and progress. Semper Paratus Check 6 Burn

My Suggestions For Church Defense

With the changing of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints policy on firearms and “lethal weapons” I’ve had a few requests for training that would improve your chances in an active killer (I hate calling them shooters, the police are shooters, these people are killers). So I’ve put together some things I’m sharing with my family. I’m sending them a DVD of these things. They are not all mine so I can’t sell them or give them to you but I can tell you where to find them to train yourself, or your family. Don’t be fooled, reading an article, or seeing a video is not real training. Seek out real, competent training where you live. These things are only a glimpse of what is really needed. After being trained you must practice. Without these two things, training and practice, you can fool yourself into believing you can handle an attack. With these two things, training and practice, you can begin to learn what you will need to survive an active killer or criminal attack.
Here are some of my recommendations:
Read First!
October 2019
Pre-advice before you choose a self-defense weapon or method.

Get trained. Most of us have busy lives. We have children and homes, jobs and callings. Learning about defense can easily take a back seat to life. That is OK as long as you eventually get to it. Look for a course on the use of these weapons where you live. If you are so inclined you can find these classes in other places and put aside the time and money for them. Once you receive training, set up a practice or training schedule. As we make time to exercise we should make time to practice the defensive skills we learn. Unlike physical exercise your defense training schedule can be monthly or quarterly. Reviewing simple training and getting “hands on” real life training is not difficult. Setting up some simple drills can mean the difference between real defense, and a false sense of security. Skills are perishable. Do not get caught into thinking you will react the same under the stress and pressure of a real attack as you did during a course 2 years ago. Training and practice are extremely important. With training you need to know the limits and the implications of the weapon you choose to defend you and yours with. Some “non-lethal” weapons can be lethal if not used properly.

Be lawful. Find out the laws where you live. Don’t just take the advice of someone you may ask or internet information, make sure you get real information about the laws concerning defense where you live. Look for “stand your ground” laws or “castle doctrine”. Some of the weapons I’ve suggested may be illegal where you live. Also, don’t get information and then never look again, laws change all the time and you must be aware.

Be aware that non-lethal is just that, non-lethal. Sometimes without the threat of death an attacker will continue on and “take his chances”. Make sure if you use non-lethal weapons and you temporarily stop the threat, that you can escape and get to safety. A good blast from pepper spray may stop someone but not everyone. The effects will eventually stop and then the attacker will just be mad.

Choose and use these weapons prayerfully and with sense. You will be lead to what is best for you and your family in their safety and security.


Watch First!

Into the Fray Episode 56: Defense Without A Gun?
https://youtu.be/2rS8JFjfH9g

Mindset

Defensive Mindset Personal Defense Network
By Bob Pincus
Could not find the video

The Master speaks on: Mental Color Code
By Jeff Cooper
https://youtu.be/_Yia8EJd11k
Look on the internet for a copy of Color Code in print.

Personal Defense Tips: Firearms Training - The OODA Loop
By Bob Pincus
https://youtu.be/66bdznhrZ4g

Threat Indicators
https://youtu.be/6aa7r7Da8Nw

You can find this on the internet
Staying Alive When Rules Don't Apply
By Tim Larkin

Weapons

Baton

ASP Techniques: Defensive Tactics
https://youtu.be/81rRwuYKcGI

Tactical Pens

Focused Impact Volume 1: A Practical Course In Self-Defense With Tactical Pens
https://youtu.be/SHgENdGr8TA

Pepper Spray
Self Defense Tips - How to Use Pepper Spray
https://youtu.be/gJuOJfbVlLU

Choosing Pepper Spray
Pepper Spray Review - The Pretty Loaded Field Test
https://youtu.be/V94L5XnBt-0


Hand to hand combat

Geoff Thompson on real violence-The Fence
https://youtu.be/K0KEN8ehIIU


The Fence - Geoff Thompson - Clip 1
https://youtu.be/T6OJnZG3joA


How to throw a throat punch (Extreme Self-Defense)
https://youtu.be/rLMX BOYNOw


The Elbow Spike
https://youtu.be/5md_n1V6XU8

Focused Impact Volume 2: A Practical Course In Self-Defense With Tactical Pens
https://youtu.be/Nlx87oOdsJE


Pepper Spray

Self Defense Tips - How to Use Pepper Spray
https://youtu.be/gJuOJfbVlLU


Knife Fighting

Knife Fighting 101- Black Scout Combatives
https://youtu.be/BxoScSOkCCs


Stun Gun
I haven’t found good training information or videos on this weapon. I’ll keep looking.



Please take all of this information as a beginning. Get competent training and then practice. Be careful and don’t think that anything here is earth shattering material. This is only a tool to give you a background in these subjects. I put the mindset first because the proper mindset can keep you out of more trouble than being a professional with any of these weapons or techniques will. Also, learn the laws of your state and maybe even county or city. But some of these things may be illegal. Know what you’re doing.

These weapons are not considered lethal even though all of them have killed in the past. They are not designed to be lethal, maybe that’s the key. Even a hammer can be lethal but that’s not what a hammer is for. So in an effort to remove ambiguity from the Church’s firearm policy, they decided to make it clear on guns, and muddy on everything else. It does bother me a little that the Church believes the Constitution to be inspired all but the 2nd Amendment. It’s something I can live with.


Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

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

If You Are Willing

“I want to protect myself but I don’t want to change my life that much.”

This is the statement that I was given by an intelligent, educated, young computer programmer. He was a 35 year old who was just starting to put on a little weight around his middle but still in pretty good shape. He understood the importance of self-protection but was not a gun guy. He was a computer guy. He was used to having problems put before him and him finding the solution. But he was not sure which way to go with self-defense.
We talked on the subject for some time. He finally came to the conclusion that he was ok with deadly force. He felt that a gun would afford him the tool for his needs. We talked about carry.
Not everyone can carry inside the waistband (IWB). You do have to change your life a little. Your pants generally should be one size bigger than you normally wear. Then you need a belt (also at least one size larger) to hold everything up. Then you need to experiment with holsters. Regardless of how you carry you will feel like everyone can see that you’re carrying. Although if you decide on an “outside” carry (hip, shoulder, etc.) you will have to dress different to keep things concealed. After all things are considered it comes down to “Is it concealed?” then, “Is it accessible?” then, “Is if comfortable?” Sometimes I think maybe comfort should be the first question because if you are not comfortable, you won’t carry.
One of the things that instructors need to remember is what we do is not self-serving. If you are a gun instructor because you’re a gun nut and it sounds like a “fun” way to make money and be around guns then you’re in the wrong business. Become good at competition and get sponsors if you want that life. Instructors are there for students. The regular guy. Not yourself or your shooting buddies. But to serve people. As an instructor I’ve sought out, and offered, alternate ways of self-defense. I’ve always taught heavily situational awareness and avoiding a fight. Other weapons that are less lethal are sometimes the best choice for those that are not willing to even think about killing another human being. I’ve had some that shied away from lethal choices say things like “I’d just shoot them in the leg.” Of course this is quite dangerous. If you have gone through many options and finally felt it was necessary to pull a gun, now is not the time to back-peddle on stopping the threat. Shooting someone in the leg is not stopping the threat. Being shot in the leg is no fun but you are still able to continue on. Certainly you can operate a gun. You may be able to keep moving and employ your knife or other close range weapon. I’m not saying you must shoot to kill, but you must stop the threat. If a shot to the leg doesn’t stop the attacker you may not have time to shoot to kill before he injures or kills you. So, your plan needs to include stopping the threat which ever option you use. There are many less lethal options:
Hand to hand combat. There are many disciplines out there. I like some and others, not so much. There are some that take years to master and others you can learn and practice techniques and be able to stop a threat without becoming an orange belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Learn these skills and practice often.
Pepper spray. I have a friend who has taught this for years and he has actually used it several times. He says, “Spray early, and spray often!” Using this weapon is not difficult but there is technique to it. There is also a right way and a wrong way.
Defense wand
One of the problems with this is it just seems like a club. This weapon can be very deadly if used improperly. There are “safer” targets than just smacking someone on the head. Make sure you get a quality product also. There are some cheap wands that may not do what they are supposed to do.
Stun gun
This requires a quality stun gun and good training.
Knife
This weapon can be very deadly and very messy! You must be trained correctly and know that if you have a hard time shooting someone, you’ll really have a hard time stabbing or cutting them!

Some of these weapons seem harmless but with improper use can, and have, killed. So don’t get a defensive wand and think you have no change of killing another human being. People have died from all of these weapons. No used properly, some of these weapons will stop an attacker and not kill them. But apart from good pepper spray, a taser gun, and a projectile gun, these weapons are up close and personal. Even pepper spray and a taser have limits that a bullet would not have.
Remember, you are completely responsible for using any of these weapons. Understand not only the psychological toll this can take on you, but the legal responsibilities.

If you feel you are willing to assume the responsibility of using a gun then know that you must learn how to “see it coming” or avoiding it altogether. The best fight is the one you never have. Fights are not pretty. If you’ve never been in one, ask someone who has. Often, two people lose in a fight. Defense is important but knowledge and having the tools doesn’t mean you won’t get injured or killed. That’s why I love avoidance.

Look for an instructor that will teach not only the safety, operation, and competency of shooting, but one who will teach it to you in a way that is good and right for you. Don’t think that if you take 5 classes from an instructor, buy his or her gun, holster and flashlight, that you will look, and function like them! Hopefully you find a serious instructor who is not into the Tacticool life. Find a system that will work for you. If you’re not really looking for another hobby then find an EDC (everyday carry) system that will work to keep you and yours safe.
I received my first paracord bracelet in the 80’s at jump school from an Army Staff Sargent who was in charge of parachute maintenance for the school. I wore it for 2 decades before someone saw it on me and called me a “prepper”. Trends come and go in the shooting world and you do not have to be part of the “gun culture” or “gun community”. I use paracord for everything because of its strength and functionality. So you’ll see it everywhere around my homestead. I joke with my wife, once I put paracord on something it is now known as tactical. So we have a “tactical mirror” in our shower. But you don’t have to so lame. If you have other interests and want a gun for defense, like buying a circular saw for cutting wood, then you need to learn competency with your gun and move on with your life. Hopefully your instructor can see and understand that. Not everyone is a 3-gun champion and knows who Jerry Miculek is. If you don’t that’s fine. There are a lot of things I don’t know about.
If you can’t find a comfortable way to carry your gun you might want to consider “off body” carry (OBC). I don’t care much for this type of carry but I’m not the one doing it. If you decide on this form of carry make sure you understand the addition thing you must do. One is you must know where your gun is at all times. You can’t leave your bag in a public bathroom stall! Of course that goes for all of us! But keeping control of the bag or whatever container your gun is in is imperative. One you don’t want to lose your gun. But two, and most important, you don’t want your gun in the wrong hands, as in children.
Another challenge to OBC is being able to access your gun quickly. In certain military combat zones you must not be more than an arms-length away from your weapon. Well that is probably a good practice with OBC.
Finding the right bag/purse/briefcase may also be a challenge. There are some great products out there but like holsters, you’ll have to experiment some to find what works for you and what you like.

All of this comes back to what you are willing to do to defend yourself and your family. The question of lethal force or not is a serious and important one. This a question that you must answer and answer honestly. Guns are not very good clubs and not good for much of anything else but shooting.
If you are willing, then there are many consideration you have to get yourself to a place where your gun is a defense tool. Being responsible is work and involves some money. It can be very rewarding or at the very least, life-saving.

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

Grim Reality of Self-Defense

I went to the range this week like I do just about every week. While there I was doing some extra work during my workout. I was doing what we call in the military, “cornering”. This is something I learned working with infantry guys and guys that clear buildings. I did not do that for Uncle Sam, but I learned how. In the military we work in teams and life is much more bitter/sweet working with a team. In my house I only have my wife. Which is great! I love her dearly but I’m pretty sure she won’t “leap frog” with me down the hall covering each other. Now we have talked about the “what if” of me having to leave her to “recon” what’s going on somewhere else in the house. She can shoot, she has a good light, and she has a cell phone. She also has been briefed on what a “fatal funnel” is and how to work through one.
The grim reality of defense is actually doing it. Actually stammering out “Don’t come any closer! I’ll shoot!” and then dropping the perp and moving the butcher knife that was in his hand far away from his reach. I have never done this in real world, but have done it in force on force training. It’s not the same as real world but it’s as close as I can get! I’ve thought a lot about this and other scenarios. It’s necessary to build a “what if” file in your head, but really, that’s all it is. When it goes down the attacker won’t always respond like you think they will. I think sometimes we think that well placed double tap will do what it is designed to do and stop the threat. Sometimes it does. Sometimes it takes a few more.
People who are out of shape, depressed, surprised, expecting to die, or have watched a lot of television murders… those people can be killed more easily. People who are in shape, feeling up, anticipating the challenge, have something to live for… people who are angry about being shot… that type are going to be harder to kill.
There was a WW1 British Lieutenant shot thru the hand while making the “follow me” wave. He looked at his wound and died.
A man in North Carolina was shot roughly 20 times in 1995 and lived to tell about it. The rapper 50 Cent was shot nine times in 2000 and has since released three albums. And in 2006, Joseph Guzman survived 19 gunshot wounds during the 50-shot fusillade by police detectives that killed Sean Bell.
While surviving numerous gunshots could be a miraculous feat, doctors who have treated gunshot victims say that being shot is not automatically a death sentence.
When major organs — the heart and brain especially — and blood vessels are avoided, the chances of survival are good, they said. The catch, of course, is that there is no science to preventing a bullet from hitting a vital part of the body.
These are only a few examples of how difficult, or easy, it is to kill a human. So when you think that guy who just broke into your house and is determined to do what he pleases to the occupants, will fall at the first shot of your 4 and half inch barreled, 9mm or .40 caliber handgun, think again. This is why I emphasize practice and training. This is why I never stop. Being a responsible person means doing what it takes to be a true defender. Going out to the range 3 times a year won’t cut it. To be honest, I feel I have extensive experience and training in shooting guns, but I wonder if I’m actually ready to face the grim reality of killing another human being effectively.
There are about 55 million gun owners in the U.S. Problem is, there are not 55 million people going to the gun ranges in the U.S. If they did, we’d need three to four times more ranges in this country. You know what that means? My guess is, and it’s only my guess, that 30 to 40 million gun owners practice with their guns on a regular basis. I spend a lot of time at a particular shooting range. It is the only range in the small rural town I live outside of. I know who goes there on a regular basis because I am there a lot. Often the faces I see haven’t been to the shooting range in some time. It’s kind of like exercising. We know we need to do it, and once in while we actually do it, but getting into the habit is sometimes a challenge. Like exercise, a training program needs to be planned and then implemented. Even a seasoned shooter needs to be familiar with a weapon before shooting it. I feel pretty confident that I can pick up any weapon and figure out how it operates in a few minutes safely. But that is several decades of experience. I’m sure I could be stumped! There are some guns I’ve never shot! (I’m working on that…) But for someone who doesn’t shoot but 2 or 3 times a year, they could have some questions. Here is a scenario that is based on a true situation.
“Imagine, for a moment, that you are a young, single woman living alone. On your way home from work, you spot a strange man walking around in your neighborhood. He’s not exactly doing anything wrong at the moment, but something about him just seems off. You’re glad to be passing him in the car rather than walking by him on the sidewalk. You make the final turn onto your street, park the car, and go inside.
About half an hour later, your eye is drawn to movement outside your front window. You look through the blinds, and there he is–the same man you passed on the street earlier. He’s only walking down the sidewalk, albeit slowly, and doesn’t seem to be paying any particular attention to your house. Still, you can’t help but feel vulnerable. As your mind runs through a hundred “what ifs,” you take great comfort in knowing you have a loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol in the bedroom. Better get it out, just to be safe.
Okay, now what? Is it loaded? There’s a magazine in the grip. I think that means it’s loaded. The hammer is cocked, so it should be ready to fire. Now, what about the safety? The safety lever is up. Does that mean it’s off? I think that’s right. But what if it’s not? Maybe I should ask somebody…” This is a story that happened to a student told by an instructor. The student was trained. They possessed a concealed carry license. They took two other gun courses. Yet they were still not sure about their gun because of the inexperience with it. Someone may say “They need training.” Well this student had more training than most. I would say that training is only the start.
More people are being caught with guns in their carry-on bags. (28% increase since 2015) That means more of them are carrying guns in their bags. It also means they forget the guns are there, which is reflective of their lack of seriousness for their mindset about carrying. Someone serious about carrying would not only remove the gun from the carry-on bag, but would also be checking that gun to be able to carry it at their destination, if allowed by local law. TSA did not determine what they meant by “loaded” guns. But suffice it to say they had ammunition in the gun.
The best data that is out there is in the state of Texas. Summarizing the Texas data: 93% of the 3.2 million adult gun owners in Texas likely do not train. 4% of them take the mandatory new permit course, at best 3% of them take some kind of NRA course, and only 1%, less than 30K, take any kind of post-CHL level course or shoot any kind of match, including all kinds of pistol, NRA high power, and all the shotgun sports.
According to National Shooting Sports Foundation research, the top 3 reasons people go target shooting are that they go with family and friends (that means one of their family/friends is highly motivated to go shooting), sport/recreation, and self-defense. That means that motivating people that aren’t currently interested in doing more than the state’s minimum may require appealing to higher level needs as opposed to a fear-based approach that emphasizes “safety” as the main reason to attend.
Being the unusual one is something I’ve always sought for. Even as a kid I did not like to follow the crowd. So maybe that’s why I try to train on a regular basis. Out of stubborn rebelliousness. Find a reason for yourself and follow through.
Facing up to the grim reality of being prepared, and then actually carrying out self-defense is something we all need to prepare better for. If you do not feel you could realistically kill another human who is bent on killing you or a loved one, do not buy a gun. Do not think that maybe you can be reasonable with an attacker and get out of an attack. Do not feel that if you cannot imagine killing someone you will if faced with the situation. The grim reality is you probably will not and thus you will be killed. Anything is possible of course, but do not count on the miracle or the unusual to happen, because it may not. I believe in God and Devine intervention. I also believe that God will help us after all we can do, even though God can do whatever He wants. I believe we must do our part.
In a lecture presented by Massad Ayoob, who is one of the pre-eminent fighting handgun trainers in the world. Ayoob’s methods of reflexive, high speed yet accurate shooting have been adopted by the U.S. Army as part of its standard pistol-training course. Former director of Lethal Force Institute, and owner/operator of the Massad Ayoob Group, he is directly responsible for training thousands in justifiable use of deadly force, safe gun use and effective defense techniques. He offered a frank discussion of how a lethal force incident changes the survivor.
Ayoob defines both Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and post-shooting trauma, explaining that the reactions suffered by the survivor stem from how society treats one who uses deadly force to avoid being killed or crippled. He suggests coping strategies for dealing with the distress, explaining, “If you can understand the trauma and the symptoms, you can remedy it,” and adding that knowing in advance innoculates the student to some degree so their responses may be less intense.
Some post-event reactions include:
• Nightmares
• A period of insomnia
• Survivor euphoria and its flip side, self doubt
• Depression
• Appetite disturbance
• Substance abuse
• Sexual dysfunction
• Social withdrawal
• Aggression/avoidance syndrome, and more.
Yes self-defense is a serious business. You must face the grim reality of it and do your best to understand it if you choose to do it, learn to mitigate its effects. I also am a firm believer in doing all we can to avoid ever being in a position to where I must kill or shoot. Avoidance is a large part of training along with situational awareness.
Decide what you can actually do. Sometimes we may never really know until faced with it, but realistically determine what you feel you’re capable of. Once you decide to use fatal force in self-defense, train. Learn all you can about how to defend yourself effectively and efficiently. Then practice, practice, practice! Do all these things realistically and not in word only. Be determined and be willing to part with time, money, and resources that can be life changing. I mean carrying a gun can actually change the way you dress! That is just one detail. There are many others. Then be willing to face the grim reality of your decision.

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

What We Can Learn From The Vegas Shooting

Things I Learned From Vegas Shooting

I recently went all over the internet to read and listen to eye-witness accounts of those who were at the concert in Vegas when shots rang out. My thoughts and prayers still go out to the families and friends of those murdered and injured.
In reviewing these accounts I learned a few things I’d like to share here.

1.When in a crowd, no matter where or what, know where your exits are. You must know what you consider your primary route to that exit and a secondary route and exit. This exit should not be your entrance, although your entrance can be your 3rd or 4th exit. Most people in a panic will run toward the place where they came into the building simply because they have not taken note of any other entrances or exits. Sometimes they will pass an exit to get to the spot where they came in. This is why taking note of exits, any exits, is important. The reason I say any exits is sometimes there are exits not readily available to the public such as backstage exits, or personnel exits. Don’t let fences, barriers, vehicles, or even windows stop you from a fast egress from a dangerous situation. But make sure you know these are exits, which means doing a little homework on the building or event location.

2. One thing that I’ve bothered my family with for years is how you dress. Modesty is important to me but even more important is utility. If you are in a place where there are a lot of people, such as an airport, you may need to move quickly. Is it easy to run in flip flops? What if you have to walk a long distance, would your foot-ware tire you out? What if your long walk or run was through high weeds or alleys? Would your shorts be the best clothing? Comfortable shoes you can run in, long pants and maybe even a long sleeved shirt might serve you well in a unforeseen situation. Carry ID, cash, keys, phone, credit cards, a knife or blade if possible. You may not get back to your car or hotel room or home for some time. What you carry may be it for a while. Don’t be a “refugee” but someone ready for whatever comes their way. Coats, gloves, rain gear, or a hat are also a plus in inclement weather.

3. Flashlights are indispensable. Many of these shootings have happened at night or in the dark of a theater, or a night club. A light can save you by showing you where real cover is, where concealment is, or show you the path to an exit. Moving in darkness can be dangerous and fruitless. I’ve carried a flashlight for years and often it gets more use than my multi-tool.

4. Situational awareness is always so important wherever you are. I’m not saying you have to be in Orange all the time, but at least Yellow! Too many times we get too relaxed and we slip into White and are totally unprepared. Being aware can keep you from being hit by a vehicle, whether the driver is intentionally or unintentionally, careening toward you in a crowd of people. If you are so inclined or have the opportunity, find out what gunshots really sound like. Too many witnesses say “I thought it was fireworks…” when they should have been moving toward an exit or cover. Learn to identify a muzzle flash too. Also, learn what cover really is. Too many people think a car door will stop a bullet. You can relax and enjoy yourself without going stupid and being in White. (Referring to the Cooper color code) When you are aware make sure it is 720 degrees. That is all around you and up and down too. In the case of Vegas, the danger was coming from above.

5. Be armed all the time everywhere. Be legal, but be armed. In the case of the Vegas shooter returning fire was not a good idea. I’m not sure of distance involved and you’d hate to hit short and hurt or kill someone else. But in most cases, evil shooters cower in the face of return fire or better yet, kill themselves. These people are not soldiers, they are generally cowards. Being armed is not easy. It takes time, money, and work. But being able to defend yourself is truly priceless. If I can’t carry a gun I’ll have a blade, tactical pen, and other legal defense weapons.

6. Medical knowledge and med kits are invaluable. Some people carry in their EDC a battle dressing or a tourniquet or both. These type of things are essential in a mass shooting situation. Get some good training from a medic or an EMT. Someone who deals with emergency medicine. Most medical professionals are tied to a hospital or ambulance filled with supplies and equipment and communication gear. If you learn the basics of using tourniquets and compression bandages. Often what you really need are blood stoppers. Having a good stocked first aid kit in all your vehicles is a must. The average first aid kit from Walmart is not very good. It is better than nothing though. I recommend you make your own and include 10 to 15 surgical pads. I stopped at a car accident once and needed more than the 4 pads I had in my kit.

In summary going out in this world can be dangerous. We are no longer safe from wackos or terrorists. We can be better prepared. Most of us think we are different than war-torn countries but that is an illusion. Our world can be turned upside down in a second. Being in a large crowd is not advised but don’t become paranoid and never go to a football game or a concert again. Use your head. Try to sit near an exit if possible. Do the same in restaurants. If we’re careful we can minimize being caught in a dangerous situation. If all of us did the above six steps we could make a difference and be an asset if something goes down.

Stay safe!

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

I'm Not A Knife Guy, I Swear!

I keep insisting that I'm not a knife guy. Yet I have many knives and like to see the newest versions. My favorite brands are Spyderco, Kershaw, Cold Steel and Gerber. I've always carried a pocket knife. I received my first knife as a 8 year old. It was a Case and I loved I. I also had an Official Cub Scout pocket knife. But that's part of my Scouting history. I actually learned to handle a knife from my Father but I also learned more as a Cub and Boy Scout.

Modern knife steel is very high quality material, but all metal will corrode through time. Occasionally oil the joints and springs of a pocket knife with a drop or two of oil. This will assure easier opening and closing and will prevent rust and lessen wear. Wipe the blades down and then with an oil-moistened cloth to prevent rust-especially if you live in a damp climate or close to the ocean. If your blade should get wet, dry it thoroughly. If your knife comes into contact with salt water or any substance you are not certain about, you should rinse it immediately with tap water, dry it and apply a light coat of oil.

Do not store knives in their sheaths. The leather collects moisture and creates pits on the blade.

Check the locking notch of lockbacks regularly to ensure that it will work properly. Keep all sand and grit out of the knife. Keep the mechanisms clean. Remember to never rely on a folding knife to be permanently locked in position.

Do not use the cutting blade as a can opener, chisel, pry bar, screwdriver or for any heavy work for which your knife was not designed. Also, don't use the back of your knife as a hammer. It may break the springs, handles or pin.

Handles made of wood can be occasionally rubbed with furniture polish or oil. Brass can be polished with household brass polish.

Remember to keep your knife sharpened --a dull blade can be more dangerous than a properly maintained one.

General Knife Sharpening Instructions

Sharpening a knife is sometimes perceived as the most difficult knife care task; and it probably is. Modern stainless steel is very hard and, when sharpened properly, will hold a good edge for a very long time. When sharpening a knife you must have a high quality sharpener that features a rough stock removal surface (preferably diamond abrasive) and a finishing surface of hard stone or ceramic abrasive. The diamond and ceramic materials will cut away the steel on the blade's cutting surface easily as these materials are harder than steel. A hard stone will also perform this task, but the stone is only slightly harder than the steel and so this requires more effort on your part.

Sharpening with a stone

When grinding your knife on a stone, it may be useful to use a three-way oil stone, Fine-Medium-Coarse. Use the stone only when your edge does not re-align with a steel. That means your edge has dulled from constant use or steeling. Make sure you use the exact angle at 30 to 40 strokes before your new edge is formed. Use more strokes if needed. The angle used determined by how sharp you want the knife. The smaller the angle the sharper the edge. However be aware that the sharper the edge the sooner it will fade, and need to be re-sharpened. If it is too difficult for you to maintain the correct angle, throughout your re-grinding procedure, take your knife to a reputable knife grinding service in your area.

When a knife is used, the edge eventually becomes dull. The edge will turn either to the left or right side depending on how you hold your knife when cutting. Quality knives with high carbon/molybdenum/vanadium alloy have elasticity and can easily be re-aligned by a sharpening steel. Do not use a diamond-coated steel or a pull-through manual or electric sharpening device for maintaining the edge. These devices will destroy your turned edge. They can be used to sharpen, but not for maintenance.

Place the knife blade against the tip of the sharpening steel at an angle of approximately 20 degrees. Pull the knife down and across the steel, describing a slight arc. Repeat this action on the back of the steel to sharpen the other side of the blade. Repeat steps 2 and 3 five to ten times, alternating the left and right side of the blade. It is very important to maintain the angle of 20 degrees and to run the full length of the cutting edge along the steel from the hilt to the tip of the knife. Speed of movement plays no part in this process.

Sharpening Serrated Blades

First, obtain the correct sharpening tools to perform the task. Many of the sharpening kits on the market offer serration hones as options. Second, have the proper technique to use.

Most factory ground serrations will have the same angle as the plain edge portion (assuming the blade is partially serrated), which means in the neighborhood of 20 to 25 degrees.

Once everything is set up, you can begin the process. Using firm pressure, work the hone in a back-and-forth motion, perpendicular to the cutting edge. Every so often, stop and feel for a raised burr on the backside of the blade. Only move on to the next tooth when you see or feel a raised burr. Once you have completed sharpening the ground side of the blade, flip the knife over.

Types of Sharpeners

There are many good sharpeners on the market today. The main factor in sharpening is the device you use to remove the material from the blade must maintain a uniform angle for you and not allow your efforts from stroke to stroke to change the angle of pressure you are putting on the cutting surface of the blade. If this angle relationship is changing from stroke to stroke, you will end up with a rounded edge that will feel sharp for a short period of time and dull rapidly.

Caring for your knife is as important as caring for any of your tools. My Leatherman tool has never failed me. I carry it always and love it's versatility. Find the knife that works best for your needs and then take the time to care for and sharpen it. It really pays off in the long run and will help you out of many everyday problems.


Semper Paratus

Check 6

Burn

EDC: I Love Tac Pens!

A tactical pen is a deadly weapon in the right set of hands.
In the wrong set of hands, it’s a harmless writing utensil. The distinction is important.
Basically a tactical pen is a Kubotan. A striking weapon.
Practicing with a Kubotan teaches us something paramount about survival and combat: even simple, mundane objects can be a surprisingly potent means of self-defense.
Being creative is about thinking outside the box, and breaking down preconceptions of what it means to compete and combat. A weapon can be anything – a keychain, a tactical pen, a pencil, a railroad spike, a drill bit, or a coffee mug.
What you use is less important than how you use it. Anything can be a deadly weapon, but nobody can deny that some objects make better ones than others. So what’s the best option?
You can think of a tactical pen as a Kubotan disguised as a pen.
Like Kubotan’s, they are forged from hardened metal. The metal is stamped with small and tight friction grooves to improve grip. The non-writing end of the pen incorporates a hardened tip. This tip is the primary weapon of the tactical pen.
It’s designed to penetrate and injure. It’s made to puncture and incapacitate. So a tactical pen is a pen made out of metal, with stamped grip grooves and a hardened tip.
Few products can offer you as much utility as the tactical pen. Not only is it a mean weapon that can poke, prod, twist, and stab anyone dumb enough to get on the wrong side of it, but it is also one of man’s greatest inventions: the pen.
A tactical pen is what is known as a “survivor’s multi-tool”, or a survival device that serves multiple purposes.
And as we all know, the pen is mightier than the sword. Or so they say. But what could be mightier than a pen in the right hands?
Being armed and ready to defend yourself at all times is no easy task. In fact, in our modern world, most people are disarmed more than armed. Often because social and political regulations forbid conventional weapons from being openly carried.
The harsh reality is you can’t legally carry guns everywhere, nor can you carry swords, clubs, bows, blowguns or some knives.
But there are solutions around these restrictions. Protecting yourself with a self-defense tool does not mean you have to be armed to the teeth. To the creative, just about any object can be a weapon, and an especially effective tool is the tactical pen.
Even if you’re already a highly trained martial artist, whose hands and feet are weapons unto themselves, having a tactical pen is always a welcomed advantage. And that’s why you should carry a tactical pen. You want the advantage. I want a BIG advantage in a fight!
The primary use of a tactical pen is straightforward. It’s a device for self-defense and writing. But there are two other lesser known uses of tactical pens such as:
Breaking Glass
The pointed end of a tactical pen is perfect for breaking panes of glass. Just grip the pen firmly in a gloved hand, stand back against the same wall the glass is off to one side, and swing your arm from the elbow like a pendulum. Slamming the pointed metal tip into the corner of a pane.
The glass should shatter with ease.
DNA Collection
Yeah, believe it or not, these fancy little self-defense tools come with a built-in device for tracking an assailant with the power of science.
Some tactical pens even have a crown studded end cap that is ideal for scraping, jabbing, scratching and stabbing an attacker. Leaving blood or flesh behind that can be analyzed by a lab.
And here are the most useful features of tactical pens:
1. They are discrete; people will overlook them and let you carry them almost anywhere
2. Tactical pens are difficult to pry from your tight grip because they fit almost entirely into the palm of your hand.
3. You can write with it.
4. Tactical pens are a concealed weapon in your pocket and are extracted quickly without a lot of movement.
5. They are ideal for attacking someone’s pressure points, and for twisting uncomfortably against bones.
6. Tactical pens get overlooked as a weapon in pat-downs.
7. People rarely see a tactical pen attack coming – you have the element of surprise.
8. If you need to break a window (for whatever reason), tactical pens are exceptionally efficient for this purpose.
9. With some practice, they could make a decent projectile. I feel like that’s a stretch, though.
Using a Tactical pen for self-defense is easier than you might imagine. Unlike most forms of martial arts weaponry, using this small weapon does not require you to memorize any complicated forms, hand-grabs or punching techniques (although knowing those would help you become proficient much faster).
Tactical Pen Techniques
The techniques are pretty simple and can be learned by anybody – but the key is practice. Look up some internet videos and work with your friends.
As long as you are careful not to hurt each other, practicing these simple moves can be a lot of fun – and even running through them, a few times can significantly improve your ability to perform effectively when the time of need finally arrives. Or you could use a soft dog chewtoy shaped as a bone. You can hold that similarly to a pen.
Here are some general ways in which you can use your tactical pen:
Slashing
Pretty self-explanatory but the tactical pen can be used like a knife or sword. It can be swung in a striking motion, down being the strongest move.
Although there’s no blade, the tactical pen will still do real damage when you connect. Especially with a solid over the shoulder swing.
Pressure Point Striking
This is a method that requires some background knowledge and practice. Pressure points can be debilitating when pinched or pressed. If done right, it doesn’t take much force.
Knowing how to use your tactical pen to target these natural human weak spots give you an incredible advantage against less knowledgeable attackers.
The tactical pen is a close quarter weapon; you can’t do much damage at more than arm’s length distance. However, close range is how you get access to a threats pressure points. If the opportunity is there, knowing the pressure points could save your life.
Stabbing
This motion is obvious, but the best target locations might not be. Aim for the eyes and if you connect the fight will come to an abrupt end. Another vulnerable location is the Adams apple. It’s really hard to keep fighting if you can’t see and/or breathe.
The Do’s And Don’ts Of Tactical Pens
Things you SHOULD DO:
Carry One Or More
This is the kind of backup defense tool that you can store in lots of sneaky places to keep yourself safe at all times. Sure, you could carry just one tactical pen with you at all times.
Or you could get one for your bug out bag, one for your bug out vehicle, one for your office, one for your home, you could even keep a tactical pen in your first aid kit.
Use Your Tactical Pen Creatively
There is no defined “right” or “wrong” way to use a tactical pen. A “How To Use Tactical Pen For Dummies” does not exist.
So feel free to get creative and imagine unique ways you could use your tactical pen throughout your day. Picture how you might defend yourself in various situations, or how you can retrieve your tactical pen covertly.
Practice With It Often
Could you pick up a guitar without ever done so and play a rock song? Your clumsy attempt at a song would probably sound similar to cats dying.
Same idea goes for all new skills, if you want to be any good at them you need to put in practice time. Anyone can wield a tactical pen but there’s a big difference between randomly slashing and thrusting vs mastering it.
And while no one is saying you have to be a master, learning and practicing tactical pen basics will go a long way to preparing to defend yourself with it.
Things you SHOULD NOT DO:
Consider This Your Primary Weapon
No one has ever marched into battle armed with a jubilee of tactical pens. They are never a primary weapon. BUT they are the ideal last resort weapon.
Get Too Attached To It
Any incognito weapon is liable to get confiscated. No matter whether it is a tactical pen, a cane sword, a sleeve pistol, or an Odd Job hat, anything that hides or disguises a weapon is a target for seizure.
Be careful where you bring your tactical pen, it is a weapon after all. There are places where it is downright unacceptable to carry a weapon on you.
And although it is a pen, it doesn’t exactly look like a regular pen, and if you get caught trying to sneak this weapon somewhere you’re not supposed to, there could be severe consequences for getting caught.
In a pinch, where available weapons for self-defense are limited, using a regular pen is better than nothing. But don’t practice tactical pen techniques and then go cheap and carry around a lame plastic ballpoint pen expecting it to function on the same level as the metal-alloy weaponized tactical pens. Some regular pens are built better than others.
Standard pens don’t have the strength or durability to perform as those engineered by weapons manufacturers.
The bottom line is regular pens make poor self-defense tools.
They’re not illegal, but they’re still a weapon.
So don’t use them as a toy, and don’t abuse their power. You can seriously hurt someone just “messing around”. And I’ve said it before, and I will say it again, be careful where you take your tactical pen.
Carrying one into a place like an airport could result in arrest and get you charged with conspiracy to commit a crime (whether those were your intentions or not). Tactical pens are weapons, treat them as such. Law enforcement knows all about weapons that are available out there.
Tactical pens are considered non-lethal.
That does not mean they can’t kill; it just means that they are not designed to. Murder (even in the name of self-defense) is something you should avoid if possible. Killing someone with a tactical pen would take a lot of effort. It won’t happen by accident, and it would be both gruesome and messy. Also not something easily defended in a court appearance.
Tactical pens suck as far as pens go.
If you want a smooth, flawless ink implement to write your memoirs with, don’t rely on a tactical pen. Tactical pens are more Kubotans than pens. Or more accurately they are 27% pen and 73% tactical weapon.
So don’t be surprised if the ink is of poor quality and it’s a bit of hit or miss when writing. Realize weapon companies make these and not pen companies.
Nobody looks menacing brandishing ANY pen.
Even a tactical one. Leave your ego at the door because you won’t scare off any attackers when you whip out your tactical pen and start thrusting it around and making tough guy sounds.
In fact, expect to draw a few chuckles from you assailants. But use this to your advantage; when they think they are about to beat the living crap out of some pen-wielding-dink, their confidence will be high but their guard will be low. Let them underestimate you and your tactical pen-abilities. It will be their downfall.
Don’t tell others your pen is tactical.
The best part of the tactical pen is its discretion. Why then would you show a random person your weapon? It’s a good practice to keep your self-defense weapons to yourself until you’re forced to use them.
Best Tactical Pen
Everyone wants to know which is best. Once someone decides that carrying a tactical pen makes sense, they want the best.
The key features to look for in the best tactical pen are:
• Made From Solid Alloy Construction
• Stainless Steel
• “DNA Collector” Built In
• The Pen Functions As A Pen
• Discrete
If the tactical pen has each of these qualities then it’s one of the best. You want it made from solid alloy to ensure it won’t break even under intense pressures. Stainless steel helps to avoid rusting. DNA collection will help you catch the bad guys through forensic science. The pen functioning properly helps you discretely keep your powerful weapon with you at all times.
After these hurdles have been met, the best tactical pen is one that is affordable and one you will carry every day.
If you buy a tactical pen, pop it in your tactical backpack and forget about it until the next time you get mugged, it is not going to do you much good. You need to actively stay proficient with your weapon. Train with friends and practice alone.
The dual purpose of pen-and-weapon serves as the perfect disguise and allows users the element of surprise while also granting them the benefits of being armed and prepared for any situation.
I’m never without one.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn