Evolution of the Dark Star Gear Apollo. 

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A decade ago my passion for wheelguns was reignited like a wildfire.  Blazing along I came across a special edition of the Ruger SP101. Had to have it. How to carry it though?  I had already learned that snubbies and AIWB went together like peas and carrots but I just couldn’t find exactly what I wanted. Well … Read more

SYMTAC Consulting Shotgun Skills AAR

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8-9 October, 2022Hosted by Green OpsShadow Hawk Defense Range, Hedgesville, WVPhotos by the author and Green Ops instructors Instructors:Rob HaughtMatt HaughtBob MeffordGary Powers Class Description (from sym-tac.com/courses):Our flagship class, Shotgun Skills has been in continuous evolution for decades. Based around the Push-Pull method of recoil control that Rob began teaching in the 1980s, it has … Read more

Purposefully Reducing Your EDC Footprint

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There comes a time when someone decides their EDC setup is insufficient for all tasks. In most instances it is due to clothing restrictions at a special event or place which would need closer to a deep conceal or non-permissive environment (NPE) setup with a smaller firearm. Remember- mission drives the gear. Want to carry … Read more

A Missing Terminal Ballistic Frame of Reference

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There is an interesting pattern with people who are looking for the best possible defensive pistol ammo and yet are drawn to questionable unproven solutions that feature misleading information to sell it. They buy the questionable ammo and defend it while repeating advertising claims without having an understanding of how it actually compares to known … Read more

Maintaining Consistent Shells in the Tube

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Staggering rounds in a shotgun or having different types of shells loaded into the tube/magazine is not a good idea. For a defensive shotgun or any shotgun that has a specific role or purpose, it should be loaded with the most appropriate shells for that task. Any specialty rounds or different rounds (buck or slug) … Read more

The Over Reliance on SMEs

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I have a theory as to why it is difficult for some to grasp nuance with defensive concepts, especially in weapon, caliber, and gear choices. For many people who have sought professional instruction and insight in defensive/offensive concepts, they have taken it as gospel with little discussion or thought as to how it applies to … Read more

Optimal Is Not Universal

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To disregard options and recognize optimal isn’t universal is quite short sighted. Concealment capabilities have increased dramatically with products like the Phlster Enigma. Combine that with certain guns chambered in mouse calibers, and you have a system compatible with the most stringent antigun policies and visits to the beach wearing proper attire without issue. Shown- … Read more