Lets talk about guns!

 

 

 

 

By way of introduction to the topic, I thought I'd cover my own background as a shooter, a gun owner, and a weapons instructor.  As a former U.S. Marine, my first formal introduction to marksmanship was during rifle training at Parris Island.  A few years later I shot as a member of the MCAS rifle and pistol team.  

During my tenure as a deputy sheriff  I was certified as a law enforcement firearms instructor and a concealed weapons permit instructor.  I was a member of our agency's Drug Task Force and Special Response Team and received extensive training in firearms tactics.  I have been qualified in court as an expert on firearms and the use of force.

In my free time I've shot in local IDPA, steel plate, and pin matches.  I also coached the former state Junior IDPA Champion to several local and state level victories.  I love teaching shooting almost as much as I enjoy shooting itself. 

I don't give my resume' seeking validation, but merely to demonstrate that I do have some knowledge on the topic and that my opinions are based on real life experiences.  Unfortunately the "gun culture" sometimes attracts the armchair commandos.  I'm not the "deadliest pistolero since Wild Bill" nor do I claim to be the final word on all things gun, but I can at least carry on an intelligent conversation on the topic.  I started this blog as a way to gather and organize my thoughts on the topics of guns and shooting as well as the political and social aspects of firearms.  Reader input is welcomed.

 

The FOUR Basic Rules of Safe Gun Handling

 

For the novice shooter or for anyone who may be considering their first firearm purchase, here is your first lesson. In practically every firearms mishap someone broke one or more of the following four rules.  You'll often hear euphemisms like "misfire" or "unintentional discharge" but the facts almost always indicate a rule violation.  If every shooter followed these four basic rules, the vast majority of firearms accidents would be eliminated. So without further delay, here they are.  Words to live by.

 

1. Always treat every gun as if it were loaded.

2.  Never put your finger on the trigger until you are actually ready to fire.

3. Never point a gun at ANYTHING you are not willing to destroy.

4.  Always be aware of your target and what is behind your target.

 

Stay safe and check back soon.