Liberty Fox Defense

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  • Freedom Rifle

    Abstract

    A Freedom Rifle is an American Legacy. The Freedom Rifle is THE symbol of American Freedom.  Rifleman past/present show the ideal of of honor, skill, discipline and sacrifice for one’s posterity(doing difficult things for their grandchildren..born and unborn).

    A Freedom Rifle such as the AR 15 is the most efficient hand held device currently available for defending our families, our communities and our Nation.  No one should apologize for owning a Freedom Rifle any more than one should apologize for owning a quality table saw or  an efficient automobile. Efficient tools are always desirable and a firearm is first and foremost a tool designed for a specific task..

    Most Police Cars in the US are equipped with Freedom rifles.  Police agencies have adopted the Freedom Rifle for first responders because they are efficient tools.

    I often find myself correcting people’s misinformation (or misunderstanding) when they call a Freedom Rifle an “Assault Rifle”.

    There is such a thing in military vernacular as an assault rifle.  It refers to a fully automatic rifle, a machine gun used to attack enemy positions and is different in significant ways from a Freedom Rifle.

    Freedom Rifles are not fully automatic machine guns and do not fit the description of a military weapon designed to attack or assault enemy positions.

    The uninformed often assume that the military term assault rifle has something to do with a criminal assault.  Nothing could be further from the truth.

    The fact is that shoulder weapons of any description are rarely used in crime. According to the FBI the number of people murdered by hands and feet far exceeds the number murdered by all rifles and shotguns combined, including semi automatic rifles.

    So, in my home and places I have influence, I request that people call them by their proper name; which is of course a “Freedom Rifle”.

    WHY is it a Freedom Rifle?

    First, because IF you have your freedom, you own a Freedom Rifle. Freedom TO and Freedom FROM.

    Second, if you can’t own one, you don’t have freedom.

    Third, if you don’t have your freedom and enough citizens obtain Freedom Rifles, you SOON will have your freedom!

    TODAY we would not be free (or as free as we currently are) without Freedom Rifles and Rifleman!

    WHAT is a Freedom Rifle?

    A Freedom Rifle has a detachable magazine with 20 or more capacity (STANDARD capacity!) AND is able to make man-sized hits at 200 yards.

    Should you find yourself being attacked by a group of armed criminals there is no firearm that will provide you with a combination of range, accuracy and the ability to engage multiple targets quickly as a Freedom Rifle.  If you know that you are going to need deadly force to protect your family, this is the Rifle that you want in your hands

    See, America HAS a Legacy of Rifleman as taught by Appleseed Project.  Having 85 million gun owners is tough to deal with if you are a power hungry dictator.  Even 200,000 trained and ready Rifleman are impossible to deal with.

    What is a Rifleman?

    In the Revolutionary War a Rifleman was able to shoot an enemy at 200 yards off-hand with his rifle. Rifles enabled us to win the revolution against…a dictator.  George Washington’s rifle cost about $5,000 in today’s money. The British had muskets and MIGHT be able to hit a man at 80 yards. The Lord blessed America with Rifle-makers and Rifleman!

    To me, the Rifle is the symbol of America and Freedom. Though I give great respect and honor to the USA Flag (and it does my heart good to see it flying over my home everyday), I KNOW that it is the Freedom Rifle that is the symbol of freedom.

    WHAT DOES IT MEAN if you OWN a Freedom Rifle.

    1. It means you aren’t “taken in” by misinformation and a threat to Freedom Rifles is a threat to YOUR property.

    2. It means you are a person of means. No welfare/looter is able to afford such a prize. It also means you are a person of discipline and able to put away funds long enough to obtain a rifle.

    3. It means you understand that a Rifle’s mission is to counter an “expected attack”.

    4. It means you are INDEPENDENT! You do NOT rely on others for your protection. day-to-day, nor in the event of a long-term disaster.  You can protect your family, your live-stock, your property from attack (2 legged or 4-legged predators. You are able to secure meat for your family.

    5. It means you are the ideal-responsible gun-owner.  You should make bulk purchases of ammo and include this as part of your water/food storage.

    6. It means you are passing onto the next generation the Legacy of rifleman-ship! No other skill is more important than being a true rifleman!

    7. It means as Quigley said, “I have no use for a handgun…didn’t ever say I didn’t know how to use one.” The mission of the handgun is for “unexpected attacks”. There are a few that are better with handguns than me, but only a handful are better with a rifle than me. The rifle is my “Primary weapon system”. I was born to be a Rifleman.

    8. It means you are willing to die for your right to own a “Freedom Rifle”.

    9. It means you are a REAL AMERICAN! Willing/able and duty bound to protect yourself (and thus protecting your family) your community and your country…and above all your rights!

    These are the words I live by. If it is not worth dying for…it is not worth killing for.

    So, the next time you hear the uninformed call our American Legacy an “Assault weapon”. I hope you take time to correct them.  I hope you ask your “statesmen” if they own a Freedom Rifle (we all know politicians don’t own Freedom Rifles, because Rifleman don’t compromise like politicians do)!

    I hope you are inspired to own a Freedom Rifle because deep down, you are meant to live and breath as An American!

    How much would you pay for a Freedom Rifle?

    Currently you can buy a excellent system for under $1,000. Add about $1,000 for ammo. Another $300 for accessories like (mags, pouches, slings) and about $700 for TRAINING.

    Lets call it $3,000. Some would say that is A LOT of money. I would say, “what would you pay if there were dozens of thugs coming to your neighborhood to do unspeakable things to those you love the most?” You would pay ANYTHING and EVERYTHING to someone that could provide you with a Freedom Rifle under those circumstances. Why not buy one NOW for only $3,000!!!

    NOW is the time to “OWN” and become a Rifleman by training HARD.

    Freedom FROM:
    Freedom from fear, tyranny and loss of a stable society. Freedom from hunger and attacks.

    Freedom TO:
    Freedom TO live, love and produce and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

    God Bless the Rifleman in days gone by and the Rifleman of today!

    Thomas

  • About Utah Conceal Carry Course & REFERENCE Material

    ABOUT THE CFP CLASS

    Learn weapons manipulation, the law (State and Federal) regarding firearms and justified use of deadly force.

    WHAT TO BRING to the CFP Class:

    1) Please bring govt issued photo ID (so we can confirm who you are, so we can transfer that information onto your application to State of Utah.

    2) Bring a notebook to take notes (8.5×11 sheet is recommended, that way you can include it with my handout).

    3) IF you have a “questionable” criminal history, you may want to call BCI and confirm you can obtain a CFP.
    (801) 965-4445

    4) Be prepared to have your photo taken, to be included in your application to BCI

    5) Be prepared to have your finger prints taken, to be included in your application to BCI.

    6) Extra cash; in case you want to purchase Mitch Vilo’s books.

    7) Class runs about 7 hours. I keep it interesting and I have a lot of things to share that keep most students engaged the whole time.

    8) Come prepared to introduce yourself briefly and what you want to get out of the class. Or your intended purpose of CFP.

    9) do NOT bring gun(s) NOR AMMO

    10) arrive early so we can get you checked in and seated. We start promptly ON TIME.

    Think of this class as “govt minimum awareness training” (the most amount of people “certified” for the least amount of money).

    You will have a good understanding of the legal risks and how to manage those. Managing “criminal risks” will need to be mitigated by ongoing continuing “defensive firearms” training.

    Next Steps After your CFP

    I HIGHLY recommend the following as next steps:

    First I highly recommend Mitch Vilo’s book(s): http://firearmslaw.com/index.html

    I will try to have enough copies for students wanting Mitch’s “Self-Defense Laws of All 50 States” and “Utah Gun Law”

    I will include highlights from his books in my lecture.

    Second,  I HIGHLY recommend you attend Marksmanship Matters for gun handling, tactics, malfunction and combat mindset.

    By reading all of Larry and Stacey’s articles, you will be miles ahead of most CFP carriers.

    DEVELOPMENTAL PLAN AFTER CFP:

    1) Read ALL of Larry Mudgett’s articles (see below). Print and include in a binder to be marked/studied and re-viewed.

    2) Memorize and internalize the four safety rules

    1. ALL guns are ALWAYS loaded
    2. NEVER allow the muzzle to cover ANYTHING you are not willing to destroy.
    3. Keep your finger OFF the trigger until your sights are on the target and you intend to shoot.
    4. Be sure of your target.

    3) Read and study Larry’s “Pre-training info”.

    4) If you are a NEW SHOOTER, do NOT go to the range. It will take considerable effort to undo the damage done by reinforcing bad habits including flinching, mashing the trigger etc.

    RECOMMENDED ARTICLES:

    Larry & Stacey Mudgett articles:

    Why surrender is NEVER an option!  (Required reading for our CFP class)

    The armed citizen’s creed: (Required reading for our CFP class)

    Why do I need a rifle:

    Professional Firearms Training

    What Gun should I buy?

    There are only 3 types of people

    Myths and misconceptions

    Family Preparedness

     Misc Articles:

    Children and Guns in the Home

    Common Mistakes Gun Owners Make

     

    CFP RESOURCES:

    * MINIMUM TRAINING CURRICULUM FOR CONCEALED FIREARM COURSES from BCI

    * Application for Utah CFP

    * Reciprocity with other states:

    * Women and Conceal carry options: http://www.youtube.com/user/faliaphotography/videos?query=conceal

    * holster purses:

    ** http://www.guntotenmamas.com/ ( I can beat Amazon by 30%)

    ** http://warrior-creek.com/ (I can save you 30-40%)

    * Most publicized use of justified deadly force (Zimmerman Case)

    Tactical Medicine (critical!)

    How-to-Israeli Bandage Dressing (IBD)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMRklQkfDLE#t=33s

    amazon

    How-to-Apply Combat Application Tourniquet (CAT)

     

    amazon

    AMMO RECOMMENDATIONS:

    * Our recommended 9mm ammo: http://sgammo.com/search/node/127%20ranger
    * http://www.ar15.com/ammo/project/Self_Defense_Ammo_FAQ/

     

    Visual Map of Crimes in your zipcode!

     

    MY THOUGHTS ON GUN CONTROL:

    1) regardless of how many people vote against our guns, we have a RIGHT in a constitutional republic to OWN and use guns to defend ourselves. (what part of “shall not be infringed” do you not understand?)

    2) regardless of law, opinion, popular vote etc. we have a RIGHT to defend ourselves.

    3) there are 300 million guns in America, 20,000 gun laws and millions of criminals ignoring laws. LAWS will NOT solve this problem. GOOD PEOPLE with guns WILL SOLVE the criminals. If the criminals have guns, you have better be sure you have guns too!!!

    4) ANYTIME we NEED the govt for something, we give them MORE POWER. We do NOT need the govt to protect us from mass-shootings/criminals. We need the govt to pass laws to ALLOW us to protect ourselves. NOT THE OTHER WAY AROUND (so called gun-free/free-fire zones).

    5) when a crime is in progress, there are ONLY TWO TYPES of people there. First the VICTIM and second, the AGGRESSOR. Only the victim can (help themselves) defend themselves. I’ve talked to many many cops whom  have been cops for decades and they have NEVER stopped a crime in progress or proactively stopped a crime. Some pray, “I hope they attack someone else”, that is NOT CHRISTIAN. I hope they attack me vs my neighbor, because I’m ready and I’d rather deal with their garbage and stop the threat; so they don’t attack other GOOD people.

    6) it upsets me the NRA suggests a federal agent be in every school to protect our children. That gives the FEDS MORE CONTROL/POWER. The solution to mass-school shootings is concealed carry OPTION for teachers. They have the CHOICE to carry! Pass a law that makes schools NO-LONGER free-fire zones!

    See this article about the NRA:

    http://www.thenewamerican.com/usnews/crime/item/14018-nra%E2%80%99s-response-to-sandy-hook-federally-funded-police-in-every-school

    7) ABOVE ALL THE REST, we are MORALLY OBLIGATED to protect ourselves, and in so doing, protecting our spouses and children. There are 7 people that depend on me, and I take protecting them…by protecting me VERY SERIOUSLY.  We are ALSO MORALLY OBLIGATED to disable/stop attackers from attacking others (our Christian neighbors).  LADIES, do NOT put ALL the responsibility on your husbands/BFs. Be a TEAM in defending each other and your families! (Also, Ladies, is your husband with your 24x7x365? NO. What will his life be like if you are attacked? What will your marriage be like, if you are attacked? What kind of mother will you be like, if you are attacked? Its like insurance, you hope you never use it, but when you NEED IT, you REALLY NEED IT.

     

    TWO SUPREME COURT RULINGS:

    1) We have a right to military style rifles(AKA Freedom Rifles)!

    2) JUSTIFIED in using deadly force to resist FALSE arrest/weapons confiscation.

    http://www.apfn.org/apfn/gun-law.htm

     

    TEACHERS, I will give you 20% off my Utah CFP course. Just provide documentation that you are a govt school teacher.  Home schoolers get 30% Off. 

     

    CRIME STATS:

    2010:
    http://publicsafety.utah.gov/bci/documents/2010CrimeinUtahReport_002.pdf

    First half of 2011:
    http://publicsafety.utah.gov/bci/documents/2011Semi.pdf

    Other years:
    http://publicsafety.utah.gov/bci/crimestatistics.html

     

    Excellent principles for ladies using defensive pistols
    https://www.shootingillustrated.com/articles/2016/4/28/lessons-for-the-ladies/

    VIDEOS:

    Similar to our “Custom Foxy Tuck” Holsters

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

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    In case the link goes bad:

    https://www.google.com/#q=gunman+stops+knife+rampage&hl=en&prmd=imvns&source=lnms&tbm=vid&sa=X&psj=1&ei=N7sSUIj_BoXtiwL89IDAAg&ved=0CDgQ_AUoAw&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.,cf.osb&fp=8f43c5bd048b596f&biw=1866&bih=963

     

     

     

    In case that link goes bad:

    https://www.google.com/#q=student+shoots+home+invaders&hl=en&prmd=imvns&source=lnms&tbm=vid&sa=X&psj=1&ei=bMUSUL38LMabiALSw4HIDQ&ved=0CD0Q_AUoAw&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.,cf.osb&fp=8f43c5bd048b596f&biw=1866&bih=963

     

     

    Barber Shop robbery

     

    https://www.google.com/#hl=en&tbm=vid&sa=X&psj=1&ei=NMYSUKLYEKSviAKxmoCADQ&ved=0CDkQvwUoAQ&q=barber+shop+robbery+detroit&spell=1&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.,cf.osb&fp=b2e1bec278c8e2bd&biw=1866&bih=963

     

    Internet cafe shooting:

    https://www.google.com/#q=internet+cafe+shooting&hl=en&prmd=imvnsu&source=lnms&tbm=vid&sa=X&psj=1&ei=C8gSUMmLEpCWjAK_g4G4Bw&ved=0CEIQ_AUoAw&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.,cf.osb&fp=8f43c5bd048b596f&biw=1866&bih=905

     

    I do NOT agree with run hide fight, I believe we should all have a plan & be prepared.

    #1) “stop the attack” with lethal force, that you always have with you.

    #2) running out of the area in a zig zag…almost always works. This is what I train my kids to do.

    #3) have a get-home kit (medical kit etc) – many locations are locked down for 10 hours. Bleeding to death is a very real risk, before EMT arrive & the scene is safe.

  • Selecting The Correct Handgun

    SUMMARY/ABSTRACT: Many of my students ask my professional opinion on gear selection. Based on my “mileage” and understanding I often find myself recommending Glocks OR XDs/XDMs.  I also recommend they TRY a Glock, XD/xdm and a S&W M&P before they buy.   IF there was one perfect gun, there would be ONE.

    Your primary factors in selecting the handgun will be 1) Caliber 2) operating system 3) size/weight 4) cost/benefit.

    If you are selecting a sub-compact for pocket carry, I suggest a kel tec pf9, xds 9, S&W shield 9  (XD/glock subcompacts are TOO fat/thick for a sub-compact niche). The xds & shield may be too tall for pocket carry.

    SCOPE: Daily citizen conceal carry (not competition guns).

    CALIBER:

    Do you want to standardize on a caliber or have one of each?

    FACTORS TO CONSIDER

    • Can you and those you live with handle/manage the same caliber?
    • If you can buy in bulk (think costco), you can save on ammo costs. So, do you select one caliber for everyone in your family?
    • Do you shoot several thousand rounds a year training? Its better to practice with a 9mm than to rarely practice with a 10mm.
    • Does your caliber allow you to use that ammo in a sub-compact/pocket gun?
    • Is there really that much difference between MODERN 9mm, 40 SW and 45acp?

    Factors said another way:

    Select a caliber that you and your family members can “manage”.   GOOD hits with a 22LR are better than peripheral hits with a 44mag.

    For me, I have a large family and many are petite females, so I wanted to standardize on a caliber and STOCKPILE ONE caliber.

    Also, I do a lot of training, so an inexpensive caliber makes sense. Also, I often carry sub-compact guns and I want the caliber I choose to work with sub-compact/pocket guns.  Another factor in my caliber selection is I’m 1st a rifleman and all handgun calibers are insufficient in my opinion.  To me a 9mm +p+ HP with about 440 LBS of power is not that much different than a 45 acp at 525 lbs. I get more round capacity with 9mm.

    SUMMARY Of Gabe’s article:

    1) low recoil means quick follow up shots

    2) more capacity for multiple attackers

    3) with MODERN 9mm HP ammo is very effective. 9mm FMJ is very ineffective because it doesn’t expend all of its energy into the target (just goes right through the bad buy).

    4) If you live in a state where you can only have 10 rounds, go with a 45 acp. But if you live in a free state, why not have a 9mm with 19+1 rounds?!?

    5) all handgun ammo is about the same, CHOOSE what you can manage.

    I recommend the reader read Gabe’s article on “why the 9mm”

    http://wilsondefense.blogspot.com/2011/03/why-9mm-by-gabe-suarez-part-1.html

    http://wilsondefense.blogspot.com/2011/03/why-9mm-by-gabe-suarez-part-2.html

    http://wilsondefense.blogspot.com/2011/03/why-9mm-gabe-suarez-part-3.html

    An Internet rumor is that the FBI released a document on “justification” for the 9mm:

    https://www.google.com/#q=fbi+9mm+justification

    I think most departments don’t emphasis marksmanship & are having a hard time qualifying, and thus its easier to qualify with a 9mm, than a 10mm. If I was LEO, I’d want to carry a 10mm (more capacity than a 45 and hits harder with better penetration).

     

    OPERATING SYSTEM:

    I’m an IT guy, so my verbage may be “non-traditional gun talk”.

    I recommend you go with something “proven” with A LOT of mileage and stay very trunk-of-the-tree! Now, just because Law Enforcement and the Military use it, doesn’t mean its ideal for civilian conceal carry, BUT it ought to be proven.  Does it do ONE thing very well, or does it try to be jack-of-all-trades?

    Is it SIMPLE!?! Is it SAFE?!? Is it quality? Would you bet your life on it?

    Revolvers

    Don’t ignore revolvers! If you are unable to work the slide (rack the slide, chamber check, weapon manipulation, malfunction drills, tactical reload) due to a disability or weakness, you may consider a revolver.  Revolvers have MANY PROs:

    1) can be fired in a purse or pocket without malfunctioning like a semi-auto

    2) Doesn’t require strength to work the slide

    3) very reliable

    4) can be in a small package like a S&W 638 (very light too).

    PROS:

    1) RELIABLE

    2) Large CALIBERS

    3) very light loads can be used for new shooters, if it will exit the barrel, a revolver will function. Not so with an auto, they must have enough power/gases to function the slide!

    4) snake loads – oh yeah, I saw 4 rattle snakes within 2 miles of my house last summer.

    5) A young/new shooter would have a difficult time shooting a 2nd or 3rd round accidentally with a revolver, not so with an auto.

    6) long term storage (bug out vehicle, or basement).

    CONS:

    1) Low capacity rounds

    2) Poor ability to top off cartridges

    3) Usually heavier than similar autos.

    4) watch the gap blast (could take a finger off if you stick your finger/thumb up near the gap of the cylinder.

    5) Loss of FPS depending on gap, could be as much as 100 FPS.

    6) Usually wider/thicker than autos.

    7) Double action trigger can be difficult to master for precision shooting.

    8) Field stripping can be complicated. Other then just taking out the cylinder

    9) One handed reloads are a challenging! Locking the cylinder open in your pants with one hand and then loading it! PIA!

    LETS TALK ABOUT Semi-AUTOs.

    What is your budget? Are you willing to pay for the best engineering and materials on the planet? Its going to cost over $1,200.

    Is your choice able to shoot 10,000 of thousands of rounds reliably? Even over 100,000 rounds!?! Do gun ranges rent your firearm (if they don’t, its because it can’t handle the stress).

    Most people find a good cost/benefit ratio in a Glock or XD/XDM. We all prefer different things.

    I often find my self recommending a Glock or an XD because they are about $500 (come with extra magazines). BUT, you need to go shoot BOTH and see which you prefer. GO RENT ONE!

    ALSO, you are NOT getting married to this gun, you can change your mind and buy something else (or off-load it).

    Glock Vs XD

    Things I like about the XD (as compared to the glock)

    • The trigger seems smoother/easier than a stock glock.
    • I LIKE the grip safety like the 1911 (if you EVER have problems with the grip safety (failure to fire or you can’t rack it, and its not a “training issue”; you may want to find something other than a XD or something that does NOT have a grip safety).
    • better grip slant angle than glock – my opinion. XDs have a common angle for grip – like 1911, sig, H&K – everything but a glock (glock has a unique angle). Glock is great for isosceles shooters (which “helps them manage recoil” IMO.
    • not picky on ammo like glock – my experience is that my glock is very picky. From what I read/my experience the XD will eat just about any ammo you give it! My glock was picky and jamb’d on wolf ammo all the time!
    • magazines drop smoothly for tactical/emergency reloads – unlike glock mags that tend to stick when empty.  (XD mags are stainless steel mags vs plastic/polymer mags). YES, you can get the stainless steel mags for XDs in BLACK (but is it worth the extra cost?)
    • left or right hand mag release (yes, glocks can have left handed mag release, but NOT at the SAME TIME. XD you can have ambi mag release AT the SAME TIME! — great for switching hands to come around a corner (and NOT stick your whole head out to see around the corner).
    • camber indicator –
    • hammer cocked indicator
    • XD has the very tough materials like the Glock – weather/water etc
    • XDM 9mm holds 19+1 rounds!
    • comes with “gun and gear” which is usually 2-3 magazines, a cheap holster and a cheap mag pouch that holds two magazines. (glock’s gun& gear is pretty lacking IMO)
    • XDM has removable backstraps so you can ADJUST the size of the grip to fit you (glock gen 4 finally has this).

    What I don’t like about the XD

    • Depending on model, the finish wears out quick (I think a worn out gun shows “experience”  & character. One of my XDs has 12,000 rounds through it and about 40 handgun classes, its finish is still good, but doesn’t look brand new.
    • barrel height — XDs barrel height is higher than the glock, so recoil management (all things equal size/weight/shooter) the glock has better recoil management.
    • Doesn’t have a 1911 style “crisp trigger”. Which is good, because it doesn’t have a manual safety like a 1911.
    • The accessories and replacement parts are getting better for the XD, but will likely never be as good as the glock “accessories”.

    MORE DETAILS on pros/cons of Glock VS XDm by nutnfancy. Nutnfancy has A LOT of experience reviewing gear and guns and I TRUST HIM and his opinions.

    He is a major Glock BIGOT, but is fair in his reviews.  He is INDEPENDENT REVIEWER and gives his opinion.

     

     

     

    This guy is ANYTHING but SAFE! yikes! This video shows the extended magazine sleeve that is popular (which I do NOT like cuz it pinches me).

     

    SEE, why I can recommend ETHER ONE?!? So, pick which one you prefer.

    To me, the glock is awesome! But the XD is the “upgraded glock” IMO!

     

    ARTICLES:

    excellent article about the XD: http://www.sightm1911.com/lib/review/XD-9_Tactical.htm

    WATCH THIS!

    Rob Leathem’s Introductory XDM videos

     

     

    WHAT I own or have owned:

    glock 27 (40 cal sub-compact…I wish I’d bought the glock 23…I’d still own it if I had).

    XD sub-compact 9mm (small grip and short barrel). FOR ME, it malfunctioned ONE handed (left handed) and when it was SLIGHTLY dirty, so I OFF-loaded it).

    PILES of 4″ XDs

    xdm 9mm

    Glock 10mm (LOVE IT for predator defense).

    xd 9mm 5″ tactical (LOVE IT!)

    FN 5.7

    SW 638

    FNP 9

    Ruger single action 357

    Ruger single action 22lr

    ruger mark III 22/45 (LOVE IT! its a tank and sewing machine, but NOT a combat system).

    SIZE/WEIGHT:

    The gun you have with you is better than the gun in your safe because its too heavy or you are unable to conceal it.

    Lets face it, handguns are for “unexpected attack”! IF we were expecting an attack, we wouldn’t be there..or if we had to be there, we would have a rifle, knee pads, plates and a bunch of friends with rifles.

    THIS portion of “selecting the right handgun” is going to be drastically based on your personal preferences and how motivated you are to change your dress/lifestyle to accommodate a gun.

    VERY HIGH-LEVEL/SUMMARY: The ideal is to have a full-sized handgun for training and home defense AND a compact or sub-compact for conceal carry.  IF you can afford it, its better to have a “tool” that does ONE thing excellently, than to have a tool that is “pretty good” at several things. IE a multi-tool or a toolbox of tools? WHICH is better? Well, I carry a multi-tool everyday of my life, but I also have a tool box of tools.

    WHY NOT ALL OF THE ABOVE?

    Full sized 9mm examples: Glock 17, XDm 9mm 4.5″ barrel, XD 4″ or XD 5″

    COMPACT 9mms:

    Comparing the glock 19 (compact 9mm) and the 4″ XD, they are about identical, BUT the XD fits MY hand (without pinching my hand in a fast reload or emergency reload (YES, I have bled blood from pinched quick mag changes and it makes a mess and makes your gun a bit slippery).

    SUBCOMPACT/pocket pistol.

    I LOVE the kel-tec pf9. I’m just now getting mileage with the kahr CM9, but so far, I like the cm9 MORE than the pf9.

    To me getting a sub-compact XD or subcompact glock does NOT make sense. If you are going that small, you want single stack magazine (slim is better). I’m impressed with the XDS, but I don’t have enough miles with one to articulate pros/cons.

    My thoughts on sub-compacts AKA Sub-Compact Wars.

    FACTS:

    Kel tec p32

    Kel tec p3at

    Kel tec pf9

    Kahr CM9

    Ruger LCP

    Ruger LC9

    Ruger LCR

    XD subcompact

    Glock subcompact

    Sig P250 sub-compact 40 caliber

    Sub-compacts may be the biggest growth area ever. More people are buying sub-compacts than ever before. Gone are the days of the tactical vest wearing 5″ 1911 packers. With the advent of high performance composites and better steal, guns can be lighter and more concealable than ever. Glocks are pretty lite compared to 1911 or SIGs, but man they are FAT.

    Most people are critical of sub-compacts because of their limited fire power and capacity. These same folks carry once or twice a month. IF YOU CARRY, you MUST carry EVERYDAY. If you carry, you MUST have one in the chamber; studies show that having an empty chamber is riskier than not carrying at all!

    If you carry a 4″ high capacity EVERYDAY, this article is not for you. If you leave your 4″ “range gun” in the safe most days; this article IS FOR YOU.

    To me, the subcompact makes a lot of sense because it is better to have a “defense system” with you; than in the safe.  I have several 5″ tactical guns, I have several 4″ guns. From 9mm to 10mm I enjoy them all, but what do I have with me EVERYDAY!!!????!!!! not a 5″ nor a 4″. I recall watching a video of Saurez international instructor unload his g19, as soon as he was out or had a malfunction he transitioned to a pocket revolver and I was impressed with the speed and utility of such a backup system. Given the lbs for the trigger, no pocket holster was used. One of my pocket holsters was designed to stay in the pocket when the pistol was removed from the pocket.

    So, what are the options. There are sub-compact Glocks, XDs, keltecs and revolvers. I HAD a glock 27 and didn’t carry it but once or twice a month. I HAD a XD sub compact, but didn’t carry it very often. I find I forget I have my kel tec pf9 or smaller kel tec p32; and these two are carried the most.  I really like the pocket carry because it is comfortable and it is as easy as putting your wallet in your pocket in the morning. ALSO if you get NERVOUS, you can STAGE by putting your hand on your gun in your pocket WITHOUT anyone noticing you staging your gun!

    The pf9 with MANS’ pants fit really good. The XD sub-compact is just a bit too fat for a pocket pistol. Think of this, there is a situation that SEEMs to be progressing into a defensive situation. Putting your hand in your pocket and getting a grip doesn’t alarm anyone and pre-stages a reaction if needed. Can I draw from my “range gun” serpa holster faster? Yes. Do I carry my serpa concealed? almost never.

    Why did I select a p32 over a p3at ? Because I already had a ppk in 32, and wanted to not have to change calibers. 380 is A LOT less money per round than 32.  380 ammo is not always easy to find.  I have 9mm ammo that says 430 lbs of knock down power. This is close to 40 SW power, but when you are training, use the cheapest 9mm ammo you can find 😉

    If you were going to buy a subcompact that you were going to have with you everyday and have a standard/easy to FIND caliber, I would highly recommend the kel tec pf9 or kahr CM9.  Now Ruger THINKS they have made improvements to the pf9, time will tell. Am I willing to buy a ruger lc9 and compare it? No, I’m happy with the pf9 and ruger can try to rip off kel tec’s designs. Wait for ruger comes out with a copy of the su16c or kel tec shotgun (two tubes of 7 rounds).

    I’m a big fan of nutnfancy: He is a total knife snob, but likes guns too. He LOVES the pf9 and LOVES the kel tec su16c…that makes us fast friends 😉

     

     

     

    What about the Ruger LC9 (yet another keltec copied by Ruger):

    http://www.google.com/#hl=en&q=ruger+lc9&um=1&ie=UTF-8&tbo=u&tbs=vid:1&source=og&sa=N&tab=wv&bav=on.1,or.&fp=a25c88762e85b39f

    Lets compare sizes of common sub-compact pistols:

    SEE ALSO

     

     

     

    Left to RIGHT: XD subcompact 9mm, kel tec pf9, kel tec p32

     

    The XD has a 10 round and 16 round mag with sleeve, EXCEPT if you have to do FAST magazine insertions and pinch your palm and start bleeding over everything 😉  Which I’ve done…and man it bled and bled.

    THICKNESS IS EVERYTHING…or thinness rather 😉

    On top is p32, pf9 and then xd 9 SC

    p32 vs pf9.

    XD Vs pf9, nearly the same, but the THINNESS matters to me!

     

     

    p32 vs XD

    SEE ALSO “The no-nonsense guide to pocket pistol”

    http://mouseguns.com/PocketAutoComparison.pdf

     SWITCHING FROM sub-compact, to COMPACT comparisons:

    Ok, I’m comparing a glock 19 (aka G19), XD 4″ 9mm and a FPN-9.

    The size/weight of the XD and FNP are very close. The g19 grip is just 1/4 shorter than the xd and fnp. for the thickness of all these guns, I think the 1/4 is worth it for my size hands (very large).

    I hate bleeding when I do a quick mag change and get pinched!

    I’ve always talked bad about DA/SA pistols because of the down-you-are-dead “safety” like the barreta m9 or ruger (whatever that junk is called). BUT the sigs and the FN has a LONG and pretty smooth trigger, which acts as a safety (for the first fired round). after that it switches to single-action(SA). The FNP says its 12 for DA, and 3-4 for SA.

    I still prefer the glock/xd “system”, but for a bed-side gun(think little kids messing with it on the counter while you sleep), I think the FNP could be an option.

    anyway, here are some photos I took of all three guns.

    about the same size (length and height):

    FNP on top of XD

    Notice G19 is about 1/4 shorter than the FNP (for height).

    I think I might be more interested in the FNP if I could carry it cocked and locked (hammer back, safety on). YET, no “down-you-are-dead” safety like the M9.

    HOW TO CONCEAL/HOLSTER OPTIONS.

    THIS topic is too deep and too diverse to address here. In fact, anything I say, is for ME and I’m unique.

    Lets just say, I LOVE my custom Foxy Holster.
    It distributes the weight of a full sized gun.
    My pants act as a funnel and not all the weight is in one place like a pan-cake holster.

    VERY concealable and good retention (I don’t have to worry about it falling out or an unauthorized person gaining access to my gun.

    I also LOVE pocket carry!

    A holster purse is a good option for my wife that is not dedicated enough to carry a handgun on her person everyday.  IT IS A COMPROMISE IMO!

  • Daily Carry Recommendations

    by ThomasE

    I have EXTENSIVE mileage with these products and I can recommend them without hesitation! I stake my reputation on this gear. I KNOW you will be happy with this gear!

    sog dua multi-tool, protac 1aa & uniball pen

     

    Yep, I made those pouches.
    emergency bandage (IBD) with gaffer-tape, sypderco endura wave, husky “box cutter”, spare cash in phone case along with some micro-lock-picks
    In-case-of-emergency (ICE) phone number of emergency contact on mobile-device.

     

    My custom made pouches (Light, Multitool, spare-mag)
    • GUN: Your firearm of choice. For me it is usually a kel tec pf9 or S&W shield. (AND spare magazine).
    • COMMUNICATION: Cell phone (smart phones are awesome for what you can get done and research…but battery fails too quickly). Consider a “battery backup charger” or THISone for your phone. THIS has saved me many times!
    • TIME: SIMPLE watch, being an IT guy and seeing technology FAIL all the time, I LOVE a simple watch. Citzen’s ecodrive are my favorite because you never change the battery, they recharge via solar. Saves time & money and never have to swap the battery! and MAY survive an EMP.  My next eco drive watch will be the Military version.
    • Snake loads (birdshot in a pistol cartridge).  Believe it or not, I bump into rattlesnakes pretty often.
    • Discrete EDC “tactical non-tactical pants”. I started with the 5.11 taclite, then I found the blackhawks that were more “professional”, but I’ve arrived at what I believe to be the perfect EDC tactical/non-tactical pants. VERTX Phantoms. I like how discrete they are and I still have a awesome phone pocket, and pocket for my major-medical. The only thing I’d change is the front pockets, seem too big for pocket carry (they spill my contents on the couch if I’m not careful).  Also the wave-open/emerson open knives have a hard time catching the wave to deploy the knife…so I end up carrying my wave in the right rear pocket.
      • Tactical Pants. For the range I LOVE 5.11 taclite pro pants  The 5.11 have a more aggressive slant rear pocket and a “utility” strap in the rear, that doesn’t look as professional as the blackhawk pants IMO. Try them, you’ll LOVE them. and they last forever!
      • Vertx phantom for the office, and taclite pro or blackhawk for adventures. I slightly prefer 5.11 for the range, over blackhawks (blackhawks have those nasty elastic loops in their pockets…and its a hassle when you have ammo/brass in there and they get tangled).

    RANGE ITEMS I recommend:

    • mechanix gloves! I’ve owned and worn out expensive 5.11 tactical gloves, but these $20 gloves are awesome for protecting your hands from sharp guns(AK47s and 1911).
      Great for moving folks and doing work too.
    • Ops bag (ok, not my daily carry, but an awesome “operations bag”  http://www.surplusmilitarystore.com/Paladin-Tactical-Mission-Go-Bag-COYOTE-BROWN.htmlconnect to belt and leg and have a shoulder strap. not too big, not too small.
    • Howard Leight R-01526 Impact Sport Electronic Earmuff (TACTICAL advantage; great for hearing bad guys breathing and walking on carpet in the other room at night in your home, or out on the range). WARNING, your best friends/family will “STEAL your hearing protection”, so label them and ensure you get them back when folks barrow them from you! nutnfancy’s review

    and then…you have your car-kit; which includes your “get home bag”, your medical-kit, your car-kit (mechanical) and possibly an evac-kit (72 hr kit).

     

    WORK-IN-PROGRESS RESEARCH PROJECTS:

    I’m still in search of the following, but I have not found any I would recommend. Let me know if you find the ideal “systems”.

    1) The perfect Belt …I have NOT found the perfect belt. I saw one that is coming out soon at shotshow, it will be called: reeve specops belt titium (it does NOT have the nasty “rigger” appearance. Today I’m using cabela’s nylon.

    2) Conceal carry shirt for TALL people. I LOVE the 5.11 covert shirts, but I have to order 2x size too large…and it is STILL not long enough for me 🙁  (Considering starting a tall tactical Taylor 😉

    What the perfect shirt looks like to me:

    Tall enough to cover a inside the waistband holster/pistol.
    cool/rugged material. Square at the bottom for “untucked tools” 😉
    Quality material that will LAST…and LAST.
    One discrete pocket (not too geeky like  a lot of fly fishing shirts).

    I’m currently field testing:

    http://www.amazon.com/Columbia-Declination-Trail-Sleeve-XX-Large/dp/B00APK2XMS/ref=reg_hu-rd_add_1_dp

    OR TALL:

    http://www.amazon.com/Columbia-Declination-Trail-Short-Sleeve/dp/B006RDQPAS/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2QTRHUHQA574E&coliid=I23I9FLW1VYMRB&psc=1

    http://www.cabelas.com/product/Columbia174-Declination-Trail-Short-Sleeve-Shirt/1323128.uts?Ntk=AllProducts&searchPath=%2Fcatalog%2Fsearch%2F%3FN%3D%26No%3D20%26Ntk%3DAllProducts%26Ntt%3Dcolumbia%2Bmen%2527s%2Bshirts%26Ntx%3Dmode%252Bmatchallpartial%26WTz_l%3DHeader%253BSearch-All%2BProducts%26WTz_st%3D%26WTz_stype%3DSP%26form_state%3DsearchForm%26recordsPerPage%3D20%26search%3Dcolumbia%2Bmen%2527s%2Bshirts%26searchTypeByFilter%3DAllProducts%26x%3D-868%26y%3D-51&Ntt=columbia+men’s+shirts&WTz_l=Header%3BSearch-All+Products#BVRRWidgetID

     

    SHOES

    I’m currently testing:

    Cabela’s “Perfekt™” Casual Oxfords by Meindl

     

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