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The Bill for Our Rights

(from funnyjunk.com)

[Ed: We have published this piece annually since 2015 for Bill of Rights Day each December 15. The  Bill’s Second Amendment is the reason for our being, in more ways than one.]

On Sunday we all should have been jubilantly celebrating the 226th anniversary of the ratification of the Bill of Rights, the original 10 amendments to the United States’ federal constitution. Remarkably, it slipped by relatively unremarked. Yet our Bill of Rights may actually be the most significant of our republic’s founding documents.

The Declaration of Independence announced our nationhood. The Constitution defined our government. The Bill of Rights confirms our liberty as free people who are not subservient to our government.

There is a lot wrong today that the authors of the Bill of Rights anticipated and meant to preclude. But the Framers knew that natural and civil rights, including these broad and individual ones that were defined so early on, are actually not worth the parchment they’re inked on. They’re worth what each generation holds they mean regardless of original intent. That’s how they’ve often become too loosely interpreted.

There was strong agreement among the Founders about the importance of these principles to a civil, democratic society and in their belief that they were codifying rights that were mostly pre-existent and inherent to the dignity of human beings. The conflict between Federalists and Anti-Federalists over whether to formalize these was about the impact of leaving unstated other rights “retained by the people” or “reserved to the states”. There was no disagreement about the importance of any of the rights for which the colonists had fought and died for.

Federalists worried that documenting any rights implied disregard for those not enumerated. Anti-Federalists feared that not including these in the Constitution would eventually make it easier to ignore them. Over 200 years later, it appears the Anti-Federalists showed the greater foresight on this question.

The Second Amendment (in James Madison’s original draft, beginning with “The right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed”) is our particular concern here at Doctors for Responsible Gun Ownership. Not just to protect the Right to Keep and Bear Arms, but also because this individual right is so basic to all other rights of Americans. It is, in St. George Tucker’s words, our “palladium of liberty”. Just having this enumerated right for individuals to own and use weapons makes us unique among nations.

One reason Americans have always seen ourselves as exceptional is because of the individual obligation for self-responsibility that is required by minimizing dependence on government. We’ve been realists since the first boots trod the Atlantic coast, taught by the frontier experience that we have to take care of ourselves.

We discovered that people have the right “to the pursuit of Happiness”, not to be made happy. We learned that we have the right, and therefore the duty, to protect ourselves because there is no right to be free from harm. If we do not comprehend these core truths, we become dependent on government for happiness and protection— according to others’ standards, not our own.

As Americans moved westward, they outpaced the advance of existing government, an unusual pattern throughout the hemisphere. Sometimes alone, often in scattered clusters of neighboring settlers, they had to meet their own needs. They were guided in establishing their own local authorities by the same traditions we look to today to understand our relationship to government that now envelops us.

That historical ethic of self-reliance without a safety net is a recent enough phenomenon to continue influencing our psyches. That’s good because this world, and too often our own part of it, is an unpredictable and dangerous place.

Accepting the responsibility to care for oneself, one’s families and fellow citizens must be at the heart of any successful society. A hard-nosed, far-sighted understanding of that reality is central to American history, coupled with our optimism and generosity.

This is why DRGO speaks out on behalf of our fellow citizens. We oppose professional and cultural group-think that would have us ask more what our country can do for us, than what we can do for ourselves and our country.

DRGO vouches for the capacity of people to do the right things for themselves and each other, even with powerful tools like firearms. If we don’t, we’ll lose our history, our liberty, and each other.

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Robert B Young, MD

— DRGO Editor Robert B. Young, MD is a psychiatrist practicing in Pittsford, NY, an associate clinical professor at the University of Rochester School of Medicine, and a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association.

All DRGO articles by Robert B. Young, MD.

The GAT Daily Gift Guide

Christmas is upon us and it’s my favorite time of the year. SHOT is just around the corner, companies are pumping out new gear and I get to write about my favorite pieces of gear in gift guides like ours. Finding the right gift for the knife or gun enthusiast in your life can be tricky, but it’s not impossible. I’ve put together a list of some of my favorite stuff in the tactical world. 

Update The Wardrobe with 5.11 Tactical 

The old gun guy look of cargo pants, a rigger’s belt, and a photographers vest is long gone from most gun guy’s closets. While those old IDPA warriors are still around we’ve seen a major change in tactical fashion. Adding tactical to something doesn’t necessarily make it tactical. Any kind of tactical clothing should help you complete your mission and for most of us normal folks, that’s blending into our environment. The modern 5.11 Tactical clothing does just that while giving you an edge and an incredible amount of comfort. 

Defender Jeans 

Who doesn’t love jeans? They are the perfect gift because everyone wears them. The Defender jeans are a little different though. These stretchy, super comfortable pants are rock solid. They are very well made and the flexible denim allows you to easily move and groove throughout your day.

They come in a straight cut and a skinny jean and are so damn comfy. The have 7 pockets giving you almost cargo pocket capacity without actual cargo pockets. The extra two pockets are rear hip pockets approximately the same size as a 30 round AR magazine. They are comfy, allow you to move, and of course, they look like jeans. 

The Edge Chino 

If your gift receiver has to dress up a little the Edge Chino looks a little fancier than jeans. These Chino’s are built with 5.11’s Flex-Tac material to be incredibly flexible. They allow you to move easily and never restrict mobility.

The Chino’s offer the same hidden hip pockets that fit AR mags as well as any other gear you wish to stash. You also get a front device pocket. The front pockets also has a sharp corner that turns into a flat surface for carrying knives, flashlights, and other accessories straight up and down for an easy draw. 

Norris Sneakers 

My current favorite kicks look like a traditional canvas high top but are much tougher. They offer decent ankle support, a puncture-proof sole, super-strong stitching, and are comfy to wear. The Norris sneakers also feature an awesome grip texture. They aren’t quite boots, but they are as close as shoes get to being boots. These are an awesome gift for the tactical fashionista.

Hawthorn Long Sleeve

The Hawthorn Long Sleeve looks pretty normal. It’s a long sleeve button down shirt that is professional and discreet. However it does packs 5.11’s RAPIDraw placket that allows you to quickly open the shirt and retrieve your favorite firearm.

There is dual chest pockets and a hidden zippered pocket for carrying small valuables. It’s 100% cotton twill and both comfortable and good looking. 

Tomcat Sunglasses 

“Talk to me Goose.” Aviators are a timeless design for a few reasons. They work, are comfortable, and look good on everyone.

When purchasing sunglasses it can be tricky to fit someone’s style but most people like aviators. The Tomcat’s are also polarized, have an abrasion and oil resistant coating, and do a damn good job of protecting your eyes. 

Show Love, Gift a Gun 

My favorite gift ever was my first 1911, given to me at 16 by my dad. I was pumped beyond belief. Giving or getting a gun as a gift is a big deal. It’s a major purchase and one reserved for your most beloved family members. 

Hellcat 

The Hellcat is hard to find, they are shipping and showing up in stores but man do they sell fast. The Hellcat is a class leading micro compact that turns capacity up to 11 but size down to about a 3. It’s available in both standard and optic’s ready models with an 11 and 13 round magazine. It’s an excellent pistol for concealed carry and comes ready to go from Springfield. 

Springfield Saint AR 15 

There are tons of routes you can take for a AR 15 these days, from ultra-cheap to Gucci as hell. In the middle you get the Saint-Victor, at least it’s in the middle price wise. Honestly, it’s a fantastic value. It comes with sights, a free-floating rail, an awesome case, a BCM gunflighter stock and pistol grip, a recoil-reducing muzzle brake, and a flat face nickel boron trigger. Its the best AR 15 under a grand.

A Polymer 80 Glock 

If you live in a state that makes it difficult to gift guns you can gift a Polymer 80 frame and the parts for someone to build their own. Building a gun is legal, and you can gift an 80 percent lower or frame to avoid universal background checks. The Polymer 80 Glock is stupid simple to build and only requires a few tools.

It takes very little effort to install the Glock Gen 3 parts and get it running. These frames are pretty cheap these days and lots of websites offer complete kits for very little money. 

Refine Someone’s EDC 

Your everyday carry can include a lot of things, but for this section we are going to cover a few unique items. A knife, a light, and some medical gear and some armor. The following items are what I find to be innovative and well made in a very crowded market. 

Surefire Stiletto

Although I’m listing a knife the Stiletto by Surefire isn’t a knife. The Stiletto is my favorite new flashlight and to be honest I’m hoping I get one under the tree this year. The Stiletto is a flat flashlight that’s rechargeable, super powerful, and very convenient to carry. Surefire always knocks it out of the park and this light is no different. 

Hogue OTF Knife 

The Hogue brand is mainly known for gun grips and stocks but they dived head first into bladed goods recently. I have two Hogue automatics but the Out the Front is my favorite.

It’s super comfortable, looks amazing, and is stupid sharp. I love automatic knives and if someone in your life likes knives they’ll love the Hogue OTF. It’s a pointy gift and those can be the best. 

PHLSTER Pocket Emergency Wallet 

Carrying enough medical gear to make a difference in a convenient and non-difficult manner is a real pain in the ass, but PHLSTER’s Pocket Emergency Waller seems to be an awesome way to do so. The Pocket Emergency Wallet comes both empty and filled, but go with the full model.

The wallet has 3 compartments, and holds 1 H&H Flat COmpressed gauze, a H&H Mini bandage, 1 pair of gloves, and 1 Quikclot gauze. Pocket carry a tourniquet and you will be ready to go. 

AR500 Soft Armor Panel 

Wearing armor as part of your EDC is pretty much only acceptable if you are law enforcement, military, or armed security. However, carrying a soft armored panel is pretty easy.

I keep one in my daily go bag and I barely notice it. AR500 has soft armor panels in various sizes to accommodate any bag you carry. From 6×6 inches all the way up to 11×15 inches. It’s a gift that gives someone a slight edge in their daily life. 

Make the Range More Fun

The majority of rounds you’ll fire will be at the range. Even for the armed professionals in our audience you’ll likely shoot more in one day at the range than you’d ever in a gunfight. Why not enjoy that range time? Here’s a few things to make it better. 

Peltor 500 Tactical 

The Peltor 500 Tacticals are over the ear muffs that act as high tech hearing protection. They are electronic and allow you to hear between the gunfire. This ensures you can hear range commands, instructions, and even have a conversation.

They are also Bluetooth compatible and can connect to your phone to listen to music or even take phone calls. I even use them off the range when I mow to listen to Joe Rogan in peace and comfort. 

Targets from Modern Warrior 

The fellas at My Ready Room who run the Modern Warrior Project make some awesome targets the T1 Targets are my favorite.

These man-sized targets accurately show a man’s vitals and allows you to train yourself in the art of proper shot placement. These targets are thick, tough, and look amazing. 

Wilder Tactical Ultimate Operator Kit

The Wilder Tactical Ultimate Operator Kit is nearly everything you need to build a battle belt. I adore mine and have found it to be ultra-comfortable, easy to use and very well made.

The kit consists of a belt pad, two Wilder tactical rifle pouches, two pistol pouches, and a tourniquet pouch. Add a medkit, a pistol holster, and belt and you have a full kit ready to rock and roll. 

Tannerite! 

The only thing that’s more fun than a gun is an explosion and tannerite gives you that explosion. Explosive targets are mostly legal and quite safe if you aren’t an idiot. Tannerite explodes when hit with a powerful enough caliber and gives you an instant reaction that’s fun for everyone.

It’s cheap too, and readily available online and at most sporting goods stores. 

Stock the Stockings 

Looking for some smaller goodies to stock stuffing, submit as an office Christmas gift, or whatever? Well, we have a few for you smaller, more affordable items for you them. 

5.11 Money Clip Multi-Tool 

I like things that are stupidly simple and the 5.11 Money Clip Multitool is stupid simple. Not only does it reduce wallet space and hold your cash, but it provides you a few tools in a TSA approved package.

This includes a flat head driver, a bottle opener, a small ruler, a wire stripper and a multi-sized bolt wrench. It’s cheap, laser etchable, and quite handy. 


5.11 PL 2AAA

Not to pimp another 5.11 product, but I will because I have carried this exact light for almost two years and it’s a great light. I hate big full pockets and the PL 2AAA is perfect for keeping things quite light. It’s a Pen Light that runs on two AAA batteries and gives you a wide 107 lumen beam of light.

It’s got a rear single mode switch, is made of aluminum, and is IPX4 water resistant and 2 meter impact resistant. The PL 2AAA is one of my almost daily pocket companions and I don’t leave home without it at least in my bag. It’s an excellent low price gift for anyone. 

Gerber Key Note 

This little knife is best described as adorable. The Key Note is a mini knife about the same size as a key fob and provides you with a handy little blade.

It’s not incredibly versatile but will get the job done when it comes to light EDC tasks. This little guy is so small and unobtrusive it can be attached to a key chain and carried anywhere. 

Ammo and Magazines 

This one is always easy. If someone you know likes guns just buy them ammo. You can never have too much of it and the same goes for magazines. This requires you to know the gun and caliber they use, but if you can find that out you can get a gift any shooter would love.

Prices range, but with AR mags are low as 7 bucks and 9mm as low as 8 bucks a box it’s a cheap way to stuff a stocking. 

EDT Tool 

Like the 5.11 Money clip the EDT tool is a tiny multi tool that is airport friendly and very simple and affordable.

ItSs made from stainless steel and gives you a flat bottle opener, pry tool, wire stripper, hex wrench, screwdriver, and a ruler is a super small package. It’s a sweet little design that comes with a kydex sheath for easy carry. 

Gift Giving Madness 

Gift giving can be hard for fellas and ladies in the tactical world. Especially if you aren’t a part of that world yourself. That’s why I tried to make this gift guide as diverse as possible. I’m hoping it covers just about everything at a variety of different prices. Have anything to add? Let us know what below. 

A Note from Mean Gene Leather

Not too long ago MGL’s founder, Gene Higdon, suffered a heart attack at home and was taken by ambulance to the hospital. He was released a few days later with a couple of stents and assorted other ticker-upgrades. Since then, per the doctor’s orders, he has been “taking it easy”, and then later this week he’ll be back at the sawbones to deal with two more blockages (which will be treated with medication).

Mean Gene Leather running a little slow – but still running and anyone who is awaiting an order or placing one is still in the que.

Mean Gene Leather is fulfilling orders. Of course, in Mean Gene’s world, “taking it easy” means a 40-50 hour workweek instead of his normal 90+ and Gene keeps doing his level best to turn orders while not putting himself out of commision.

So MGL would like to thank you all for your patience, support, and well wishes.

New SIG AIR ProForce MCX Virtus Airsoft Rifle

NEWINGTON, N.H., (December 16, 2019) – SIG SAUER is pleased to introduce the new SIG AIR ProForce MCX Virtus airsoft rifle.  Designed and engineered for professionals and discerning recreational shooters, the MCX is the latest offering from the rapidly growing SIG AIR division of SIG SAUER.

“The SIG AIR ProForce MCX Virtus is a very effective, safe training tool for professionals and avid target shooters that replicates the look and feel of its firearm counterpart, making it an ideal option for training in a myriad of environments where live fire is not possible,” said Matt Handy, Director, SIG AIR.  “This is an exciting product for SIG AIR because, like the MCX, it’s completely modular and can be easily configured for multiple variations or loadouts based on purpose.”

The SIG AIR ProForce MCX Virtus airsoft rifle is a battery-powered, automatic electric gun (AEG) that runs on a rechargeable battery.  The airsoft rifle features an adjustable “hop-up” creating spin on the BBs for additional stabilization in flight, resulting in increased distance and accuracy.  Equipped with interchangeable springs for velocity enhancement, the SIG AIR ProForce MCX Virtus has three fire control modes (safe, semi-automatic, and automatic).  The included magazine holds 120 rounds of 6mm polymer or biodegradable BBs, with a velocity up to 370 fps and muzzle energy of 1 joule (using a .20-gram polymer BB.)

ProForce MCX Virtus Airsoft Rifle:

Total Length: 30”Barrel Length: 11.5”Weight:   6.5 lbs
Finish:  BlackMuzzle Velocity:  up to 370 fpsMuzzle Energy:  1 joule
Caliber:  6mm BBMagazine Capacity:  120 roundsPower Source:  Automatic Electric (Battery)

The ProForce MCX Virtus airsoft rifle is now available for purchase at the sigsauer.com/store.

MSRP: $459.99

For more information on SIG SAUER airguns, visit sigsauer.com/airguns.

Get Social: follow SIG SAUER on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for the latest news, product announcements, events, and updates.

About SIG SAUER, Inc.

SIG SAUER, Inc. is a leading provider and manufacturer of firearms, electro-optics, ammunition, airguns, suppressors, and training. For over 150 years SIG SAUER, Inc. has evolved, and thrived, by blending American ingenuity, German engineering, and Swiss precision.   Today, SIG SAUER is synonymous with industry-leading quality and innovation which has made it the brand of choice amongst the U.S. Military, the global defense community, law enforcement, competitive shooters, hunters, and responsible citizens.  Additionally, SIG SAUER is the premier provider of elite firearms instruction and tactical training at the SIG SAUER Academy.  Headquartered in Newington, New Hampshire, SIG SAUER has almost 2,000 employees across eight locations in the U.S. and around the world.  For more information about the company and product line visit: sigsauer.com.

The New Cloudline System from Team Wendy

TEAM WENDY LAUNCHES NEW HELMET LINER RAISING THE BAR ON COMFORT

CLEVELAND, OH (Dec. 17, 2019) – Cleveland-based Team Wendy®, a leading provider of exceptional head protection systems, announced today the immediate availability of the CloudLine™ System, a new drop-in helmet liner designed for exceptional comfort while upholding the safety standards operators have come to expect from the brand.

The liner, named CloudLine™ for its unique comfort grade, features the softest Team Wendy patented Zorbium® foam to-date, used in strategically placed hexagon-shaped comfort pads designed to prevent hot spots while maintaining protection. Furthermore, the exceptionally comfortable liner is optimized for the widest range of ground combat helmets on the market. Previous Team Wendy drop-in liners were developed around specs of the standard ACH/ECH helmets, while CloudLine is designed to fit a broader range of helmets, including those used throughout special operations communities.

“This liner is designed to feel as comfortable and effortless as a baseball cap,” said Team Wendy CEO Jose Rizo-Patron. “The CloudLine System furthers Team Wendy’s position as the market leader in drop-in helmet systems, combining the best in comfort and protection with the ability to customize fit.”

The system includes:

  • Three impact liner pads (front, crown, rear)
  • Four thick hexagon-shaped Cloud pads
  • Seven soft comfort pads in various shapes and sizes
  • Ten Velcro® brand hook disks

CloudLine retails for $109.99 and is available for purchase on TeamWendy.com and through authorized Team Wendy dealers.

CloudLine exceeds ACH blunt impact requirements (AR/PD 10-02) and is compatible with nearly all standard ground combat helmets, though some models may also require a CAM FIT™ Retention System retrofit in order for the CloudLine System to fit properly.

Attendees of the upcoming SHOT Show convention in Las Vegas will be among the first to experience the new liner. The trade show, running from Jan. 21 through Jan. 24 at the Sands Expo Center, draws more than 60,000 people each year across a myriad of communities, including military, law enforcement and SAR professionals.

Media and patrons are invited to try out the CloudLine system. Team Wendy will be located at booth 8311 on level one.

About Team Wendy®

Team Wendy is a family-owned company dedicated to providing exceptional head protection systems designed from the inside out for those who risk their lives every day. Founded in 1997, our Cleveland-based company places a strong focus on the prevention of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in honor of the company’s namesake Wendy Moore, who died tragically from a TBI following a ski accident.

As a leading supplier of helmet systems for military, law enforcement, search and rescue, and adventure sports, Team Wendy is steadfast in our dedication to the pursuit of improving head protection research, design and development, bringing more choice, better technology and reliable customer service to the industry.

Team Wendy was recognized as a winner of the Cleveland Top Workplaces 2019 award by The Plain Dealer and was also named one of NorthCoast 99’s Best Places to Work in Northeast Ohio in 2016.

9-Hole and the Dragunov

Probably the original purpose built iteration of what we would consider the Designated Marksman Rifle, the SVD Dragunov was the Sniper Weapon developed out of the WWII Soviet Sniper Doctrine.

The Red Army saw the advantages of an accurate (enough) semi-automatic rifle able to rapidly engage targets and put them out of action much earlier than the NATO Militaries did. Bolt actions were the standard of the west up until GWOT when rifles like the Mk12, Mk11, and M110 finally started popping in to show their utility.

Semi-automatic snipers systems have become the standard for mobile fighting elements while bolt-actions have been pushed into the extreme range category for effective distances beyond 1,000 yards. The .300 WinMag and .338 LapuaMag systems have done well occupying that space.

Mk 13 Mod 7 .300 WinMag Sniper System USMC

And be sure to pop over to 9-Hole and jump down that rabbit hole of information for awhile. Its the weekend! Have some fun.

The Bloomberg Manifesto

(from abduzeedo.com)

On December 1, former NYC mayor, now private sector Democrat Presidential candidate, Michael Bloomberg wrote an accusatory Chicago Tribune Commentary, “NRA appeal to the Supreme Court puts gun laws at risk”. We certainly hope so!

This polemic should actually be read by gun owners as a clarion call to get busy supporting our rights. This man has our Second Amendment in his crosshairs and is willing to spend vast (to us, not him) sums of money to see strip us of them, law after law, state by state. Should he be elected President, the damage would be catastrophic. 

Below is a point-by-point rebuttal to his statements about guns and their oversight: 

1.  The NRA’s “latest effort to abolish gun safety laws”

“Gun safety” cannot be implemented by way of law because it is an experiential, immersive practice that requires time and effort, and is passed on from teacher to student via both formal, organized educational efforts and individual mentorship. 

2.  The Supreme Court case “has reached a new level of absurdity—and danger”

Neither the NRA nor is members pose any danger to anyone.  If there was ever a case of an NRA member attacking someone with a gun, the anti-s would never let us hear the end of it. They have yet to publicize a case because one doesn’t exist.  All available data indicate that concealed carry permit holders are more law abiding than law enforcement officers. 

3.  “And if ever there were a case that the Supreme Court should flatly reject, this is it.”

This case absolutely needed to be heard, if for no other reason, to make it clear to municipalities throughout the United States that they can’t get away with condemnable laws only once brought before the Supreme Court. The danger is that if the case is held moot, municipalities will believe they can resurrect their infringements until the Court steps in again.  New York City repeatedly thumbed its nose at the Supreme Court in its filings and must be held to account. 

With regard to the Second Amendment inalienable rights in question, lower courts have ruled based upon selective readings of Heller v. D.C., so the opportunity to say it again with clarity should not be squandered.  Additionally, there are other gun rights cases seeking review by the Court.  It would be most efficient to issue a broad ruling in NYSRPA v. NYC and return those cases to lower courts to be considered in this light.

4.  The law“imposed an unnecessary restriction on gun owners’…”

Praise be, we agree!  It remains to be explained, however, why Hizzoner (along with New York State) kept this law on the books, “unnecessary”as it was—for not one, not two, but three terms as mayor.  Keep in mind the gravity of this law:  it turned people into felons when for exercising their natural, God-given rights.  “Unnecessary” doesn’t begin to capture its assault on freedom.

5.  The law restricted “gun owners’ ability to visit ranges”

It apparently bears repeating that the basis for the Second Amendment’s prohibition against government infringement has nothing to do with hunting or self-defense against criminals or even target practice (!). Most importantly, it provides a critical check against potential government tyranny. 

The historical record on this point is unquestionable.  The American Revolution went hot when the British tried to seize colonial armories.  The Founders all wrote and spoke about the need to guard against tyranny.  Only the tyrannical fail to appreciate this.

6.  “. . . the NRA wouldn’t take ‘yes’ for an answer.”

Nor would any other sane organization when people like Bloomberg repeatedly throw millions of dollars to legislate infringement of the rights at stake.  Far too many of our military service members have died so that we can remain free, while claims it’s about shooting ranges.  

7.  If the Supreme Court agrees to hear the case, the NRA will undoubtedly argue that state regulations requiring a permit to carry a concealed firearm are unconstitutional.”

Correct.  More states have adopted Constitutional carry than still have selective (and misused) “may issue” concealed carry laws.  Here is where Bloomberg’s assault on law-abiding gun owners crescendos, and fails—because there is no meaningful supporting data. 

Why fear concealed carry?  Criminals should, and do based upon FBI survey data.  Incarcerated felons said they feared potentially armed victims more than they law enforcement.  The mayor keeps curious company.  

8.  “[A]ll 50 states allow concealed carry”

This requires careful unpacking.  “Allow” shows that he continues seeing this as a privilege, not the right that the Second Amendment clearly defines.  “May issue” states have so abused this right that in some it is statistically impossible to obtain a permit.  The Founders were prescient in their thinking: they knew that the government would infringe if it was allowed to, and has, repeatedly.

9.  “[Such] laws [are] designed to . . . ensure an argument. . . doesn’t turn into a shootout.” 

Perhaps His Honor should document the epidemic of lawful concealed carry permit holders getting into shootouts over disagreements.  Lawful defensive gun uses far outnumber criminal uses of guns. 

10.  In may issue jurisdictions,local police may object to issuance of a permit if they know the applicant is a danger to themselves or others.”

As a forensic psychiatrist, this is my lane.  The words “know” and “dangerousness” ought never to be used in the same sentence regarding the same subject. At best, someone may be at greater or lesser risk than the general public of doing something very narrowly construed based upon the presence or absence of evidence of objective risk factors.  If police “know” someone is “dangerous” and do nothing about it until a concealed permit is applied for, then public safety is far less safe than we imagine.

11.  Permit applicants may have to “possess a valid firearm owner’s identification, take a course involving gun range instruction and pass a marksmanship test.”

Firearm owner identification is very close to registry which, based on the historical record elsewhere, enables subsequent confiscation. Training and education are vital to the making of a complete gun owner. One downside to required instruction is that it leads to thinking that “I’ve passed, so I’m good to go.”  No one should ever stop learning.

12.  “[T]he NRA desires rights without responsibilities or restrictions . . .”

Indeed, the greatest objection to restrictive laws is that exercising a pre-existing right cannot be subject to government approval. The greatest goal of the “gun lobby” is safe, responsible use of firearms. The NRA and its affiliates spent the lion’s share of their energy and money supporting gun safety via quality firearm training.  All my firearm instructors have been certified by the NRA and have provided consistently high quality education.

13.  “The NRA wants the Court . . . to deal a death blow to even more basic public safety protections”

In Virginia, public safety protections would include bringing back Project Exile.  This program called for the federal prosecution of gun crimes with out-of-state federal penitentiary time.  Gun violence dropped dramatically in Richmond following its implementation.  I’m not aware of  lawful gun owners oppositint any form of crime control.

14.  “. . . such as, barring domestic abusers from possessing guns”

Gun owners, like all citizens, are owed full due process before anyone is separated from their rights or property.  Of course, no one wants domestic abusers to possess the means to harm others once they are properly adjudicated to be risks.

15.   “The NRA opposes much-needed fixes to the gun-sale background check system. . .”

Nearly all guns used in crimes are obtained illegally. Background checks do not stop criminals from stealing guns or selling them among themselves. It does, however, too frequently delay or prevent those who should be able to lawfully buy guns from getting them expeditiously.

16.  “America’s gun safety movement has successfully put hundreds of strong laws on the books in recent years”

There is not a scintilla of evidence that these laws have accomplished anything than to disarm citizens and turn them into undefended soft targets.  Non-gun related suicide matched the decline in gun-related suicide in Connecticut after twenty years of confiscation, and there isn’t any evidence a single homicide was prevented.  Gun free zones provide killers with large groups of helpless victims. 

17.  Red flag laws help “keep guns out of the hands of people who pose a threat to themselves or others”

Words matter.  This should read: whom “a judge opines pose a threat.”  It is almost impossible to identify who is likely to commit violence prospectively.  A court may be persuaded that someone was “dangerous”, but cannot say that they “are dangerous.” 

At best, Connecticut’s red flag law has deprived as many as 20 people of their rights in order to save one from suicide. That degree of over-prediction is unacceptable given that defensive gun usage so outweighs criminal gun usage. 

Even the ACLU is disquieted by red flag laws.  When the ACLU agrees with gun owners about the trampling of due process inherent in these laws, it is a good sign that anti-gun activists are going too far. 

18.  “[T]he Second Amendment allows for common sense limits on gun ownership”

“Common sense”, according to someone who refuses to comprehend what is at stake, is neither.  It is the destruction of the final defensive line against tyranny. 

As a psychiatrist, I submit that mental health requires real individual liberty.  The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution are not just legal or philosophical documents, but astute observations about how our social species can relate peaceably with one another. This necessitates being aware of and prepared for our baser drives that would assert our will over others. 

Bloomberg would deprive you of your rights for your own good, but reserves those same rights for himself.  His hypocrisy is breathtaking.  Not only does he have armed security, he demanded that the Johns Hopkins University police carry guns.  That is probably a good idea, but if guns are so dangerous, why should they be anywhere near students? If not, why should adult students (or anyone else) not carry in order to protect themselves?

I’d happily split a BIG GULP™ with the former mayor on the way to the range so he can see gun owners for what we are—the biggest, most welcoming tent there is.  My experience at several Second Amendment Sanctuary resolution hearings in Virginia have brought me in contact with hunters, sport shooters, people who care about self-defense, along with those for whom a right unexercised is lost.  It is a community as diverse as America, unified by a shared interest in a shared principles and practice. 

When we come together, all the other differences are irrelevant, because we know that as free people, safe from tyranny, those differences can be peacefully worked through.  Our philosophy is to not force anything on anyone, and all we ask for is to be treated the same way. 

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–Dennis Petrocelli, MD is a clinical and forensic psychiatrist who has practiced for nearly 20 years in Virginia. He took up shooting in 2019 for mind-body training and self-defense, and is in the fight for Virginians’ gun rights.

All DRGO articles by Dennis Petrocelli, MD

‘Ghost Guns’ Rules included in the NDAA Defense Spending Package

I will forever show this absolute imbecile when talking about 'ghost guns'

[He’s back! I get to talk about ghost guns again!]

The National Defense Authorization Act or NDAA is a Depart of Defense budget. It funds the military, pays its people, buys its equipment, etc. But as with most legislation there is always pork, little stuck on bits of pet projects that take a few million here and a few million there to fund.

One being hailed by Max Rose, Congressman from New York, would require the Department of Homeland Security to conduct an annual threat assessment on home built firearms.

“Unregistered, untraceable ghost guns have been used by terrorists seeking to inflict mass casualties, including just this year in California and Germany,” Rose, a Democrat representing Staten Island and South Brooklyn, told Newsweek in a written statement. “They are a real and growing threat to our public safety, causing incredible challenges to the already hard work of our law enforcement.”Newsweek

Terrorists, Congressman? That was a highschool kid who murder/suicided himself and two schoolmates for are unknown combination of stressors, but by all means let’s lump him in next to folks like ISIS and Boko Haram, totally the same.

Rose originally introduced his portion of the legislation in May to combat the increasing prevalence of ghost guns, which are assembled from individual parts that don’t meet the technical definition of a firearm under the 1968 Gun Control Act. His bill would require DHS to examine the potential for ghost guns to be used by terrorists and debrief local law enforcement agencies on its findings.

Here is my ultimate question… Why? Why are we adding this spending to DHS budget to research a known quantity? Politico types, like Rose, are constantly acting like ‘Ghost Guns’ are a new threat and that DIY firearms are a brand new never before seen thing. Far from it.

Let me save you the time and you can send me the check, Congressman.

The threat posed by nonserialized firearms to law enforcement and the population, in the hands of terrorist or organized criminals, is roughly the same as those of serialized firearms in the same caliber. Weapons in the hands of a group with ill intent are a threat regardless of if they are stamped with a number on the side or not.

This threat, the threat of an armed hostile or hostile group, is not significantly altered, nor is their capacity for causing damage significantly altered, by the lack of a serial number on their firearms. The inability for Law Enforcement to source a DIY firearms exact origin will not impact that firearms lethality if used against someone else.

Individuals willing to violate federal and state laws to arm themselves with a DIY gun would be equally willing to utilize theft, straw purchase, or peer to peer methods to acquire weapons with or without serial numbers. Organized crime and terror cells, being better funded and with a higher level of operational training and experience to draw from will be far more adept at using any available method to acquire arms illicitly and use them to effect (Bataclan Theatre Attack) in defiance of laws.

“Despite the best efforts by the gun lobby and Republicans in Congress to stop any progress on addressing the gun violence epidemic, I’m proud to see my legislation to help give law enforcement the tools and critical information they need to address ghost guns on track to be signed into law,” Rose added.

Best efforts?

Critical information?

I’m as curious as the next guy about the DIY numbers but for very different reasons. Academically, I would be curious to see if there is a significant proliferation of the firearms, what they are associated with if tied to unlawful conduct, and whether or not an increase in unlawful conduct is prevalent.

But I’m also a home tinkerer and like working on my own guns. And I would bet those numbers dwarf the illicit ones, just as the serialized numbers of lawful and peaceful owners dwarf the miscreants of all backgrounds and motivations.

Good try though, Congressman Rose, if it does pass within the NDAA I will be curious about the how much of the information we already knew and just what that price tag that big repeat button came at.

Virginia & Massachusetts Join the Mob

Confiscationists are finding creative ways to put pressure on law-abiding gun owners.  In addition to taking over the public health publication machine, which cranks out “authoritative” articles based upon gross distortions of reality and statistical sleights of hand, they have now begun to weaponize front-line health care personnel.

I witnessed this first-hand earlier this year.  The Virginia Commonwealth University/Saint Mary’s Hospital/Virginia Department of Health “Gun Violence Symposium” featured speaker was none other than Lori Haas from the Virginia Coalition to Stop Gun Violence. She tried to convince medical attendees that guns were killing 1,000 Virginians each year in a widespread “epidemic” of gun violence.

The reality here, as it is in the country, generally, is that ⅔ of the deaths are suicides, and the vast majority of the remaining ⅓ is gun and drug-related criminal violence confined to inner city areas.

All the “gun control” legislation demanded and paid for by Bloomberg and about to be foisted on the Commonwealth by our now-Democrat-controlled General Assembly would do nothing to prevent any of this. But that didn’t stop this group of doctors and allied health professionals from encouraging the attendees to mis-“use their position of trust and authority” to reach out to their legislators and encourage the passage of these bills.

Although civic engagement is to be encouraged, it is distressing that medical professions take positions about things that they have no expertise in.  Treating victims of gunshot wounds does not make one expert about gun usage.  Unfortunately, exposure to “secondary trauma”—bearing witness to the sequelae of violence—has led to medical myopia that cannot see past the projectile even to begin understanding the root cause of this violence.  Medical care must be based upon facts, not feelings, no matter how poignant and, in the moment, appropriate, those feelings are.

What is so conspicuously absent in any “medical” discussion of guns are their benefits.  Lawful defensive gun usage is easily ten times greater than criminal gun usage.  The FBI uniform crime statistics show that as gun ownership has increased, violent crime has decreased.  Surveys of incarcerated criminals show that they fear armed potential victims more than law enforcement.  Organized medicine’s blind spot for this is profound.

As I tried to listen patiently to the speakers, I wanted to scream “Just what is your personal plan of self-defense if mayhem were to break out here?  Wait for the police?”  Law enforcement personnel simply cannot be everywhere at all times, and they have no legal responsibility to keep anyone safe. Their mandate is to maintain law and order.

Not satisfied with merely poisoning the discussion with lies, confiscationists are now encouraging medical personnel to inquire directly about gun ownership.  This idea has been zealously and misguidedly promoted by our professional organizations for years, but now there is a bill before the Massachusetts legislature to mandate the practice. Guns & Gadgets podcast alerted us to House Bill H 2005 by Jon Santiago. It is titled “An Act to Prevent Gun Violence” and has the following provisions:

  • “The director shall establish a program for firearm screening and counseling.  Such program shall systematically screen all patients for the presence of firearms in the home.
  • “The director shall, after consultation with recognized professional medical groups and such other sources as the director deems appropriate, promulgate regulations establishing
    • (1) the means by which and the intervals at which patients shall be screened for the presence of firearms in the home and
    • (2) guidelines for safety counseling for individuals that screen positive for the presence of firearms in the home.”

First off, “firearm screening and counseling” . . . ?  Are they inspecting barrels for cleanliness and speaking to the guns?  The point is that they are screening human beings on the basis of lawfully-owned instruments.  I’d be happy to provide counsel to patients about guns, if I was appropriately asked by a patient,  based upon my training and experience in firearms, including many hours of NRA courses. In summary, my advice would be to seek out at least the same training I did!

But this bill directs medical staff to obtain direction from “recognized professional medical groups and such other sources.”  Other than our Doctors for Responsible Gun Ownership, there aren’t many that base their “counsel” on direct experience with firearms and clear-headed facts about defensive gun use. I’ve not seen any professional organizations even acknowledge the extent of defensive gun usage, nor have I seen any of them reach out to certified trainers or groups like Project Childsafe that encourage safe storage of guns that are not in use.

Apparently the bill calls for subjecting patients to this at regular intervals— and not just some patients, but “all patients.”  So routine colonoscopy will now require further intrusion into gun ownership? How will this prevent gun violence? As we’ve seen time and time again, the confiscationists never waste an opportunity to suggest that law-abiding gun owners are the problem.

What armed criminals seeking health care would waste a moment of thought about this dilemma? They would simply lie, tell the doctor they do not have guns, and think nothing of it. Law abiding gun owners, seeking merely to be left alone, are the ones facing the ethical dilemma of how to be open with their doctors when trying to obtain help for their medical problems.  Fortunately guidance is available.  Unless it is somehow directly related to the reason for the medical visit, there is no reason for this subject to be raised. And given the ubiquity and poor security of electronic medical records, there is no telling where the answers to those questions may end up.

Options include declining to answer the question, pointing out that pursuing that line of questioning is outside of the scope of the visit and constitutes a boundary violation, all the way to making formal complaints with the doctor’s healthcare organization, health insurance plan, or licensing board.  DRGO covers this thoroughly in What to Do When Your Doctor Asks about Guns.

Even if you feel that there is nothing to hide and don’t object to the question, it’s important to keep in mind that the confiscationists are playing the long game.  We cannot foresee what the next infringement is going to be, so what is “innocently” collected now could be used differently in the future, without any means of retracting the data.  The specter of “Red Flag” laws make this an ever more acute concern.

At the symposium, cardiologists expressed the most interest in red flag laws, even though such laws have not yet been implemented in Virginia.  One would think that such specialists would want first confer with mental health experts, if only to make a rational treatment plan addressing the underlying concerns. Instead, these physicians were ready to jump right to confiscation sans treatment, based upon the false ideas presented at the symposium.  In their minds, gun access is the “illness” and gun eradication is the treatment, ideas that are expressed in the language of the Massachusetts bill.

Bills such as this ought to motivate gun owners everywhere to remain aware of their local legislators’ confiscatory leanings. These Trojan horses for infringement spread like disease if left unchecked, and no state is safe, as Virginia currently demonstrates. Make it your priority to reach out to your city, state, and congressional representatives, and encourage them to support criminal control, not Second Amendment infringements.

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–Dennis Petrocelli, MD is a clinical and forensic psychiatrist who has practiced for nearly 20 years in Virginia. He took up shooting in 2019 for mind-body training and self-defense, and is joining the fight for Virginians’ gun rights.

All DRGO articles by Dennis Petrocelli, MD

Flashpoint Virginia

The letter above from Commonwealth of Virginia delegate Jay Jones to the Attorney General, Mark Herring, is indicative of a populace that has had enough. The gun owners of Virginia will not be made scapegoat for the actions of a few.

71 counties have thus far adopted ‘sanctuary’ statutes and stated they will not enforce Richmond’s onerous provisions on their citizens. The proposed assault weapons ban, which was lately amended to ‘grandfather’ existing owners as a concession to try and garner more support and make the measure more palatable, is one such measure. The proposed ban on firearms training is another.

The sanctuary movement parallels the immigration resolutions by the same title where local or state LE agencies would not assist Federal agencies in enforcing immigration policy. Now there is a difference, one that critics of the second amendment sanctuary movement are quick to point out and are trying to capitalize on.

State vs. Federal Obligations

The state officers are not under legal sword requirement to act on the federal immigration rule. They are sworn to uphold the state rules, not just their local ordinances.

And that’s a great point. Really swell. But what if they do not do so anyway? What if Virginia has reached the tipping point where ‘ the law is the law’ doesn’t mean anything anymore. Politicians the nation over, because of their beliefs on topics like immigration, have eroded the national respect and regard for the law so much that it does not hold the teeth and gravitas it once did. The jaded narratives and often outright lies told by these representatives and media outlets have left the public with diminished trust that legislative bodies are working in good faith.

It isn’t much of a stretch to see the mass noncompliance as par for the course. What is good for the goose is good for the gander and the parsing of words over parlance of what laws a locality is sworn to enforce based on it being state or federal rings hollow. It just sounds like an excuse to justify rules a particular side wants and ignore ones it does not instead of engendering respect for the law by pushing to change the law.

Example: If Congress today passed a bill that said – Illegally entering the country is a federal crime and will be prosecuted in conjunction with all felonies and serious misdemeanors. It will result in deportation if the crime(s) have a total sentence of 1 year or more and the convicted will no longer be eligible for immigration to the United States.

And then Arizona said, “No, we are a sanctuary state.” or “No, we will deport all illegals we find.” it begins to erode the public respect for the law. If you need a better example than these…

Prohibition. How did that one work out?

Richmond’s Reaction – We’ll send in the troops

No, seriously. A U.S. Senator has threatened the sanctuary counties with removal of their authority, funding, and use of the Virginia National Guard as an option for Governor Northam to enforce the law.

Does anyone recall a little event in history… maybe where troops were used by the government to go and enforce a law about weapons in the hands of the colonist citizenry… Lexington and Concord ring any bells? Because if National Guard troops take the place of local police to enforce a gun prohibition in Virginia those parallels are going to be drawn.

Now the question is who blinks first? The incoming democrats with their aggressive gun control agenda or the fed up localities saying, “not a chance.”

Me: *Buys CZ Scorpion. Garand Thumb: “You have chosen… wisely”

The day after I impulse buy a CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 (because I found an FDE one) good ole’ Flannel Clad Master Blaster GarandThumb dropped his review on that very gun.

For anyone living under a rock the CZ Scorpion EVO 3, and the later more “westernized” S1, launched a few years ago and made a huge wave on the PCC/SMG market because it was… well… affordable. The base pistol was around $900. Accessories were cheap, magazines were cheap, and in keeping with CZ tradition it all worked. You could fully outfit a 9mm ‘carbine type pistola’ with light, optic, spare magazines, a bag, sling, and a stock to SBR it or a pistol brace, for well under $2,000.

CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 in FDE with RMR and streamlight tlr-1 9mm

Compare that to the SP5 at $2800? Yes, roller delays run smooth as glass, but the guns cost for that smoothie.

Not knocking them. I love them.

But to get essentially the same basic in role set up in a 9mm PCC type pistol ‘carbine’ or SBR your expenditure is going to double, and the difference is blowback vs. roller delayed blowback. We’ve forgotten that the MP5, a G3 derivative, was designed to be cheaper to produce with stamped metal than the ‘pricey’ FAL/G1. Oh well, market demand is what it is.

Anyhow, I jumped into another little PCC 9mm and I’m stoked.

Why? Four words.

Last.

Round.

Bolt.

Lock.

Oh, and its FDE.

Waiting on a Form 4? ATF Says 10 Months

Sadly… I am waiting on an SBR right now so this isn’t the happiest news. The ATF releases regular reports on a myriad of different topics related to the firearms industry, ownership, transfers processes etc. Out of their latest newsletter this was the sad part.. I’m sitting at around 8 months so maybe next year… I was hoping for Christmas.

Part of this was due to a program the ATF started… and then cancelled due to outraged awaiting transferees. The program expedited the Form 4’s that were filled out without errors or missing information. This apparently angered folks who didn’t feel like ‘their’ Form 4 made it into the fastlane fast enough. So the ATF shut it down.

I sense a pattern here… gun owners get nice thing like Faster Form 4’s, ‘no illegal way to shoot a pistol’, or any rule concession from the ATF and then gun owners complain and ruin it. But life is what it is with the NFA, one day we may finally slay that beastie but it isn’t today.

Support HR 5289 and we might gain some ground on that front.

An Easier Way to Carry Your Range Gear

5.11 Tactical's Master Range Backpack Set gets you ready for the range.

            When it comes to innovative ideas, 5.11 Tactical seems to be at the leading edge. 5.11 has been a leader in clothing and now they are making major inroads in the “range bag” market. New this year is Ranger Master Backpack Set.

As the name implies the Range Master Backpack Set is a system designed around a backpack. For the past several years I have been using a backpack for USPSA matches and found it to be much better than traditional shoulder carried duffle bag style bags. At first glance I knew 5.11’s new bag would be an improvement over my well traveled one, because from the start it is built to be a range bag.

            We will look at the exterior first. There are two pockets on the front of the pack. You will find the small top pocket a good place to carry your phone, camera, keys, and etc. At the bottom of the main body is a semi-rigid lower pocket has magazine loops and four slash pockets for lubricant, small tools, etc and two slots for pens. This pocket is lockable and has a loop strip to attach a hook backed name tag.

The backpack of the Rang Master Backpack Set has plenty of MOLLE straps to attach gear including 5.11’s Sidewinder Straps.

            On the main flap and sides you will find numerous MOLLE strips to attach other pouches to meet your needs. There are also cinch two cinch straps for large items. You will notice I added a pair of large Sidewinder Straps MSRP $14.99) to keep my rain jacket easily accessible. On the side I mounted my IFAK in case of an injury.

As you can see Sidewinder Straps have plenty of length for bulkier items than my lightweight raincoat.

            When I did a detailed look at the RMBS, I found many features that set it apart from others. First it has a semi-rigid frame which helps distribute the load for long treks. The close cell foam ventilation ribs are covered with a soft touch mesh to give better airflow. This helps to keep you from perspiring which will wear you out and will eventually degrade the pack’s material.

            Next, the adjustable backpack straps use the same closed cell foam and mesh. I have not seen this on other packs. I am sure when hiking between stages this will be a welcome feature. 5.11 added a chest strap in case you are carrying an uneven load. This strap will keep it in place. Above the straps is another pocket that can accommodate a 100 ounce hydration bladder.  If you need to grab the backpack just above this zipper is a padded carry handle.

The soft touch mesh and close cell foam help make the Rangemaster backpack more comfortable for longer treks. The sternum strap will stabilize a heavy load.

            The interior of the main flap has a dual access mesh zipper pocket. I liked the large “U” zipper of the main pouch with lockable pulls. This style zipper allows the front flap to completely open the body of the pack. It might not seem like a big deal, but this makes it easier to get your ammunition out of the system’s ammunition pouches.

Top of the ammunition pouches has loop material to attach an ammunition ID tag. The sides will also stand up giving you a place to empty magazines without having rounds roll away.

            Like the backpack, the ammunition pouches have “U” zippers. When the pouch is completely open it is easy to put 150 rounds of factory packaged 9mm in the small pouch. The medium pouch will easily hold 200 hundred rounds of .45 ACP. There is a loop patch on top of the ammunition pouch for an ID strip so you know what kind of ammunition you have without opening it.

            The last part of the Range Master Backpack Set is the padded single pistol case. 5.11 again uses dual lockable zippers making access to the five magazines stored in the retainer and zipper pocket for the pistol easier. It should be noted the single pistol case will not fit an Open Class pistol. I found Glock 34s, 1911s, Sig P320 X5s all fit easily.

As you can see the pistol pouch keeps your pistol separated from magazines so they will not scratch your pistol.

            Overall I found the Range Master Backpack Set to be well made. All of seam ends are have sewn wraps. This keeps the ends from fraying, helping to ensure you get longer life out of the pack. You will find the zippers are all double sewn, again for durability. When you look at all of the small details of this system, it is worth the MSRP of $169.99. When compared to other quality range bags, The Range master Backpack Set, is more than competitive; it surpasses the competition. This range set makes it easy to get out to the range to practice shooting fast, accurately and have fun doing it.

On Jersey City

The Jersey City gun battle that left a police officer, three citizens, and both assailants dead is starting to make sense. Unlike other events this one has a pretty clear beginning, middle, and end.

The Beginning

David Anderson and his girlfriend, Francine Graham, were suspects in the killing of a driver near Bayonne, New Jersey last Saturday. Anderson and Graham were associated with, members of, or followed an extremist group that believes blacks, hispanics, and Native Americans are the true ‘chosen people’ as an interpretation of Hebrew Scripture. The Black Hebrew Israelites are considered a hate group, perhaps most famous recently for the incident with Covington Catholic High School. In that incident, outrage and media attention focused on a teen who was said to have harassed a Native American ‘Veteran’… that turned out to be a total farce.

When an officer approached the couple in a cemetery about the Bayonne murder, they shot and killed him.

Image via NYPost

The Shootout

The pair then drove the vehicle they used to the market area, grabbed their guns, and took over the shop where they exchanged gunfire with officers for several hours and shot at anyone near the front of the store. The Jewish shop was likely a deliberate target. They first opened fire on a pair of officers on foot across the block from the store.

Two officers were wounded in the exchange. Footage exists showing one officer as she leaves cover to get another out of the line of fire after that officer was hit in the shoulder.

The Conclusion

Officers take their SWAT team, put them in an armored vehicle, and use it as a diesel fueled battering ram to breach the front of the shop. The two shooters go down under gunfire from the police. Anderson and Graham had killed three people inside the store already after taking it over, it sounds like an owner, employee, and customer.

In short Jersey City did a solid job containing the shooters quickly.

3D Printed Guns in 2019 – Industry Update

If I was a salt miner, I could have made a fortune in 2013 and 2018 with all the hate and tears wasted on the Defense Distributed Liberator pistol. This silly little gun kicked off the idea of 3D printed guns. It’s been quite controversial with numerous attempts by the United States Government to block the distribution of plans, but you can’t stop the signal. 3D Printed guns have only evolved and gotten better with time. More than that, 3D printing is being used to make accessories as well.

An Affordable 3D Printing option

The Evolution of 3D Printed Guns

If someone had designed and tried to market the Liberator, we would have laughed at them. It was huge, blocky, not very ergonomic, and a silly little 380 ACP pistol. We’ve come a bit further than that. This includes repeating revolver style weapons with multiple barrels. The American Pepperbox term most certainly applies to these devices.

Courtesy James Patrick

Probably the most useful and revolutionary gun printed would be the AR 15 lower receivers coming out of the woodwork. These have lasted for hundreds and up into the thousands of rounds. These 3D printed lowers make it easy to build an AR 15, legally, without Federal Government overreach. They function a lot like 80 percent lowers legally. Once they are guns, you can’t go about selling them, but for personal use, knock yourself out.

Courtesy DRSail

There is also Ruger 10/22 receivers and Generation 3 Glock frames that allow you to build a variety of weapons. Building the frame and receiver for existing platforms is simpler, more reliable, and safer than starting from the ground up and designing your own gun.

As far as 3D printed guns go, the current crop of receivers and frames seem to be the most practical idea. However, this isn’t stopping people from making all manner of single shot and repeating 3D printed guns.

If you want to find some of your own 3D printed gun plans, check these guys out here.

A Google Drive with tons of plans.

A 3D Printed AR 15 lower

A 3D Printed 10/22 receiver

The Accessories

Printing firearm accessories is what’s cool to me from a practical, everyday perspective. 3D printed guns are revolutionary, but accessories and items are just fun and cool. 3D printing enthusiasts have taken to a website called Thingverse and started releasing numerous 3D printed accessories.

These are often straightforward pieces of furniture or accessories that range from useful to being best described as neat. This includes useful items like Arm Braces for pistols and minimalist stocks for AR rifles. There are rear grips, and vertical grips, and much more for the AR series.

Mini AR Stock – Courtesy thebluelion

For Glocks, there are grip plugs, stands, base plates, sight presses, Armorer’s blocks, and a lot more. Neat stuff includes magazine racks designed to fit on your safe door, and other handy little tools and accessories.

Sight Press – ThatDude333

Printing these items is likely easier for beginners, and they can be quite fun. It can help you get the experience you need to tackle a gun build. These little accessories can even make fun gifts, or save you some money here and there.

The Future of 3D Printed Guns

It’s exciting to see where 3D printed guns will go, and I’m quite excited that people are thinking beyond guns and going into accessories and upgrades. 3D printing is still young, but as the price to purchase and use a printer drops, we’ll see more and more creative minds get behind 3D printing guns and accessories. This is only the beginning for hobbyists, free speech advocates, and 2nd amendment advocates. Gun control is quite close to being dead, and 3D printing is killing it.