The Nuance of Defensive Firearms

Smith & Wesson revolvers illustrating defensive firearm choices.

When we discuss the nuance of defensive firearms for the individual we can get into the weeds and 8 dimensions of considerations to weigh. Conversely, it is even easier to fall into the trap of one size fits all if that option is proven on a large scale. So let’s limit this to a singular … Read more

Mission Drives Whose Gear?

The concept that mission drives the selection of defensive firearms and gear has been beaten to death but for some reason there are aspects of it that are still ignored. The phrase might seem generic, but it is rather specific. Whose mission? The individual. What gear/guns? The individual’s. We aren’t talking about large swaths of … Read more

P&S ModCast 403 — Gun Nerds 20: The Special Purpose Rifle

Alex Hartmann joins the Gun Nerds panel to examine Special Purpose Rifle history, mission-driven configuration, optics, barrels, ammunition, suppressors, and precision-rifle training.

Optimal Is Not Universal

Eight rimfire and centerfire handgun cartridges arranged by size

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

Does Body Armor Fit Your Needs?

The following will upset some who have not thought things through. The goal is to be smart about buying stuff and integrate with your system and mindset. If you have armor but have not trained with it, how will you perform while wearing it? How do you know how the armor affects or hinders your … Read more

Multi-tiered Assessments to Choose the Right Weapon

According to me, there are a couple assessments to make when choosing a defensive option. Everything pictured is a viable option depending on task when fed the right ammo. The combination of weapon and appropriate ammunition should meet defensible standards established through properly conducted ballistic-gel testing. Assessment #1 – Destination.Where are you going and where … Read more

It is not the Odds, but the Stakes

There is a sad movement of firearms owners who strive for the absolute minimum. “Three rounds, at three yards, in three seconds” is a popular misguided stat. Too many people think this is a standard for which to strive. What is fun about stats are the averages and the important outliers. I personally cannot predict … Read more

My Navigation of Guns, Gear, & Everything Else

Evaluating guns, gear, training, and equipment choices

We have a tremendous amount of choices when it comes to what firearms and equipment we can use. To help with my decisions, I use a similar approach to guns, gear, and training as I do with approving companies to associate and advertise with the Primary & Secondary network. It starts with one simple question- … Read more

Carrying Light With Firearms

Lightweight firearms and everyday-carry equipment

This is an older picture and some EDC items have changed but the concept remains a constant. There seems to be a misconception that a weapon mounted light is mandatory for edc. I do require them on my in-uniform duty weapons, but there is a difference in tasks and expectations between an on duty police … Read more