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TOP 10 TIPS FOR FLYING WITH FIREARMS

By
A Girl and a Gun
-

While I usually have pleasant experiences with TSA when checking in my guns, the last time I flew I was faced with a situation where I wished I had been more prepared. I was told I had to unlock the case and wait outside of their secure room where they checked my guns to make sure they were unloaded and did the standard swab for explosive and drug residue. I argued that is against policy and the discussion escalated to the point where I was not going to be allowed to fly with my guns. I gave in and I wasn’t happy. Next time I fly, I will have this list ready in case of another unfortunate experience.

Here are the Top 10 tips for flying with firearms:

1. Know the Laws of Your Destination

Before you even start packing up your guns to travel, make sure the firearms you plan to take are legal at your destination. This means that you need to check things like which firearms or legal magazine capacity to ensure it is a compliant in the state you are visiting. Also know the concealed carry or open carry laws, what permits are recognized or required, how to legally store/transport firearms in vehicles if you don’t have a permit, and the big ones: Use of Force and Deadly force laws. They are very different from state to state. Handgunlaw.us is an excellent resource as a place to start.

2. Plan Your Connections

Try to fly nonstop so you don’t have the hustle and bustle of making connections and worry about lost luggage. Sometimes it is not an option and a connecting flight is part of the trip itinerary. When planning the trip look for airports that are in states that recognizes your LTC or CCW permit. Do not pass through states like Illinois or New York. If something were to happen that the flight was rescheduled and you had to take possession of your luggage because the airline was putting you up in a hotel room for the night, you could find yourself in violation of the law. Good luck getting back through TSA the next day.

3. Pack Your Gun at Home

Just like you pack your suitcase and do a pre-trip checklist, do the same for packing your firearm and gear. Your firearm must be completely unloaded. Nothing in the chamber (or cylinder) and empty magazines. It is very important that you do this at home, utilizing the privacy of your home and safe directions that you can control. Getting to the airport, parking, and getting inside with all your luggage is tough enough; trying to secure your gun in that mix is unnecessary stress.

4. Secure Your Guns in a Lockable Hard Case

Per the TSA regulations your unloaded firearm can be in a case with integrated combinations locks or a case with at least two holes for heavy duty locks (pad locks with keys or combinations). Pistol cases can then be stored in your checked luggage. Some people get by with using the plastic case from the gun manufacturer, but in most cases it will not meet the requirements for durability. If someone can pry open or cut through the case, it is not secure enough! Use a heavy duty travel cases for pistol, rifle, and shotgun from Explorer Cases. They are durable for travel and the big ones have wheels for convenience.

5. Weigh Your Gun Case and Ammunition

If you are trying to stay at the 50-lb limit, you might have to sacrifice other items in your luggage or check a second bag. Most airlines will allow up to 11 lbs of ammunition packed in your suitcase, and they prefer it in the original packaging. If you reload your ammo or have it in bulk, make sure that you store it in a safe container or plastic ammo box, not a flimsy bag.

6. Use Appropriate Locks

Do NOT use TSA locks on your gun case. It is actually illegal for you to use a TSA lock on a gun case because unauthorized persons could gain access to it once it has been inspected. Per the law, you alone must maintain possession of the keys or combination to open your gun case. TSA agents are not supposed to have access to your case, once cleared, without you being present to unlock the case. Once your gun has been inspected, locked up in the case, and placed inside your luggage, it is a good idea to put the TSA locks on your luggage zipper pulls. Pro tip: REMEMBER TO BRING YOUR LOCKS! Put them on your gun case and your luggage before you leave home.

7. Double Check TSA and Airline Policies

Depending on who you talk to, different TSA agents and airline employees have varied understandings of the TSA firearms policies. Have a printed copy or a screenshot on your phone so that you can verify and prove, if necessary, that you are following the rules. While airline policies are usually consistent across companies, there could be variations with each airline so to be sure print out the policy page and bring it with you also. Ticketing agents know a lot of information, but not every agent is familiar with firearm policies, especially if they don’t deal with them often.

8. Go to the Full-Service Counter for Check In

Transport your gun case into the airport in the closed and locked condition inside of your suitcase to the ticketing agent. If you normally do curbside check-in, you will need to give yourself extra time to go inside. Don’t mess with getting your luggage tags at the kiosks; get in line for the full-service counter. After you give the agent your ID, tell the agent you need to declare a firearm(s). It is important to say the words “declare a firearm” and not “I have a gun.” You will have a very different experience, and an unpleasant one, if you say the wrong words. The agent will have you sign a declaration document. It is standard procedure that you are directed to the oversized luggage check-in area. You will go with the TSA agent to a secure room to perform the security checks and place your declaration document inside your luggage.

9. Stay With Your Bag Through Screening

After inspection by TSA, they will put your luggage in line to go through the security scanners. Don’t rush off. Stay with your bag and make sure it gets through the scanner and that TSA doesn’t need you for any other reasons during the scanning process. If they have a question or issue (because one TSA agent didn’t talk to the other TSA agent), they will call you back from the gate, which is a major pain and inconvenience.

Unexpected inspection? It is against policy, but an unexpected inspection can happen. TSA might clear your gun case upon your departure and sometime during the trip another TSA agent may cut your locks in route to your destination. They’re not supposed to without a good reason, but it happens. There is no recourse you can take for the damage to your locks, but if your gun(s) is missing, a crime has been committed and you need to notify the airline and the airports of your departure and arrival destinations. Call the police and then notify the FBI immediately to report an interstate theft of firearms. That gets attention fast!

10. Document Everything

Print airline and airport policies, print TSA policy on traveling firearms, and take pictures of your gun, case and then your luggage before it leaves your possession. If your luggage looks wrong when you pick up at the baggage claim, take pictures again before you open it.

The airport security process is a hassle whether you have your firearm or not. TSA agents are there to identify any breaches from intentional weapons to inadvertent mistakes of a forgotten pocket knife or shell casing. They’re just doing their job and you can make the process easier by educating yourself and following these ten tips. A good attitude and a smile goes a long way at the airport.

Additional Information:
TSA: Transporting Firearms and Ammunition
TSA: Gun Parts and Firearms

According to the Code of Federal Regulations:
Title 49: Transportation, Part 1540 – Civil Aviation Security: General Rules, Subpart B – Responsibilities of Passengers and Other Individuals and Persons, 1540.111 (c) (iv) – The container in which it is carried is locked, and only the passenger retains the key or combination.
Title 49: Transportation, Part 1544 – Aircraft Operator Security: Air Carriers and Commercial Operators, Subpart C – Operations, 1544.203 (f) (iii) The container in which it is carried is locked, and only the individual checking the baggage retains the key or combination;

SOURCE ARTICLE: https://www.agirlandagun.org/top-10-tips-traveling-firearms/

Two Stage Precision Ignition: Geissele Trigger Review SSA-E and SuperSCAR

By
Keith Finch
-

I swore I would never become a trigger snob.

I believe I have succeeded.

The AR15’s stock, single-stage, mil-spec weight trigger works fine. I’ve shot targets out at 500 yards with an unaltered mil-spec M-16A2 rifle.

From Imgur

The same can be said for the SCAR series rifles. The stock FN single-stage triggers with their moderate weight and clean break (on both of my rifles at least) would lend themselves to perfectly adequate marksmanship using applied fundamentals.

So why switch them?

Why does every rifle I own that has the option to run a Geissele trigger do so?

Simple, they are the best triggers for applying combat marksmanship fundamentals. Each product they offer is purpose built for a specific application and to maximize on the disciplines involved in executing that method of shooting.

This is a combined review for one reason. The Super SCAR and Super Semi-Auto – Enhanced are, with the exception of mean (average) stage weights and platform, the same product. In fact this review gives a good overview of Geissele’s entire combat trigger line up.

The SSA-E and SuperSCAR are two stage combat triggers for two current service rifle families and their derivatives. These are the non select-fire versions of the products designed for the semi-auto only counterparts to the service rifles.

Mission: Uncompromising Reliability with Enhanced Performance

Geissele has a keenly focused understanding that they build combat grade equipment for warfare. In every product they design that focus remains, even those designed for the competitive sporting fields. They demand absolute reliability inherent in their design.

The reduced pull weights are secondary to the trigger maintaining or improving on the rifle’s ability to ignite a primer and a send a round to end an enemy combatant. Then reset and do it exactly the same way next pull.

What is Two-Stage? What are the Advantages?

The stock ‘Mil-Spec’ AR-15 and SCAR triggers are single-stage. With a modest amount of travel during their pull they break once the pull weight is reached. On release and reset they take up pretty much the same position they were in prior and will once again travel and break at the weight range designated, usually 6-9lbs of pressure depending on the individual rifle.

Two-stage triggers change the pull action to have two distinctly separate operations. The first stage has a lighter mean engagement weight, listed as 2.3lbs and 2.5lbs for the SSA-E and SuperSCAR respectively, where the trigger will travel freely and smoothly reward against the trigger spring.

This 1st stage removes the ‘grit’ of the trigger’s metallic surfaces interacting that is often a complaint of single stage triggers. Additionally this allows the operator to ‘stack’ the trigger. It’s an orange zone if you will, you can prepare for a shot in a safe manner with a distinct stop before the shot breaks by taking up the first stage but still have the ability to safely release the trigger if the shot is no longer a tactical necessity. The operator must still be very aware of how close they are to breaking the shot and ready to judge if they go from orange to red and fire or orange to yellow and the finger comes off the trigger, but the trigger design allows this to be done much more precisely and safely than ‘mil-spec’ designs where the amount of give and movement prior to ignition is always a guessing game.

The 2nd stage is is the ‘wall’ or stop point you hit after smoothly pulling through the first stage. This stop is the final preparatory action before committing to the shot. The machined geometry of the trigger mechanism makes the trigger travel at this point minimal so that reaching the required break weight pressure, 3.5lbs (SSA-E) total and 4.0lbs (SCAR) total, will fire the rifle while minimizing sympathetic motion transfer often imparted through the trigger press.

Minimizing the sympathetic motion transfer, all the extra movements the operator is imparting to the rifle while squeezing the trigger, will increase accuracy. It’s this purposeful design, more even than the lightened pull weights, that unlock more of a rifles inherent mechanical accuracy.

Going from 0lbs pressure through your finger, hand, and arm to 6-9lbs is not an insignificant change. Depending on how the rifle is equipped you’re imparting 50-100% of the force necessary to move the entire rifle just to the trigger and the trigger will have to move a short distance before firing.

The SSA-E and SuperSCAR change that by having most of the triggers required movement take place under only about 20-33% of the rifle’s weight in force and the final breaking force be about 30-50% of the rifle’s weight minimizing imparted movements.

Finally the triggers are designed to reset for firing just forward of the 2nd Stage so that a shortened take up of the first stage puts the operator right at the firing point again while still going through both stages distinctly. This again minimizes required motion to fire the rifle while improving control.

These fine triggers do this while not compromising the reliability. Geissele uses springs and hammer designs that impart the full force of mil-spec hammer impact onto the firing pin.

A common method of lightening trigger press weights is to change the springs to lighter ones which compromise a rifles ability to properly and consistently ignite primers, Geissele would not accept that. I am very happy they wouldn’t.

Will it Make the Rifle More Accurate?

No.

The rifle’s mechanical accuracy is inherent in the quality of the barrel and action.

They can, however, allow you to shoot more accurately and get closer to the rifles mechanical accuracy.

Installing an SSA-E or SuperSCAR trigger will lighten the trigger pull weight as the most noticeable change.

This is an expensive way to possibly improve your current accuracy an unimpressively mediocre amount.

But if the operator (you) are versed in the proper fundamentals of accurate shooting and apply those, you will find significant gains in how easy it is to apply the fundamentals to your shot.

You will become faster, smoother, and more accurate since the mechanism you’re using properly requires less force from the user and less motion from the user to fire. The trigger is minimizing the windows for operator imparted errors during shooting while maintaining safety and reliability.

These 2-Stage combat triggers are designed to work against possible negligent discharges with the ‘feedback through feel’ it imparts through the rifle to the operator, the trigger reset is not right at the firing point, and imparting full ignition force to the primer.

Geissele triggers are the best of all worlds…

If you are doing your part.

Installation

Both the SSA-E and SuperSCAR make the install as painless as possible while dealing with parts under tension.

They helpfully add instructions and ‘cheater’ pins that help hold parts in place while trigger and hammer pins are pushed out and in.

Bill goes into great detail here and the SSA/SSA-E can be installed by hand with very little assistance and a couple tools.

The SCAR install is a different animal just due to different parts but it is not overly difficult in either a 16 or 17 (The 16 has one additional retainer plate)

 

If you’re looking to maximize the performance of your rifle first… square away your fundamentals.

Second, grab a Geissele.

INVITE A NEW SHOOTER TO THE RANGE

By
A Girl and a Gun
-

Any time is a great time to invite a friend to the range. Especially if he or she is a nonshooter or antigunner, introducing your friend to gun safety is always rewarding for everyone.

Before you take a new shooter to the range, plan using this checklist so that you give her the best experience possible. Use our SOS (Share Our Sisterhood) cards to extend your invitation. Write your name and meeting time/location on the card so that she has your information. Give or your time and share our community with her!

  • Arrange for a time to meet.
  • Go to a facility that is clean and friendly.
  • Schedule your meeting during a slow time at the range.
  • Tell her what to expect and basic range etiquette.
  • Allow extra time for check in and safety brief.
  • Bring extra eye and ear protection for her.
  • Start her with a standard 9mm.
  • Make it casual and fun!
  • If you don’t know how to teach, arrange for a firearms instructor to work with your newbie. Don’t let her learn incorrectly.
  • Talk to the instructor to make sure she hits the high points and doesn’t overload your friend.
  • Try to go to eat together afterwards so that you can answer any of her questions about safe storage, talking to her kids about guns, holsters, carry/home defense, competition, etc.
  • Invite her to your next AG & AG Girl’s Night Out!

SOURCE ARTICLE: https://www.agirlandagun.org/invite-a-new-shooter-to-the-range/

Sunday Sermon: Distance is Your Friend

By
Keith Finch
-

The further the target the more difficult the target.

Remember this applies to you. Unless your specific mission is destruction of an enemy or aggressor force your fighting is likely a defensive action.

The goal of your fight is to get to safety, permanent decimation of the aggressor’s ability to fight could be a consequence of your actions in getting to safety but it is not, in itself, an end goal or objective so much as it is a method or contributor to get to the end goal. This is eminently true in civilian defense and law enforcement applications.

As a civilian defender the first opportunity to safely ‘beat feet’ should be taken, even if that is just a small gain in distance and cover. The position of advantage is the most protected and most distant. Once you are out of sight you are likely out of mind as the aggressor seeks targets of greater opportunity or breaks off the brief and sudden attack because the gain or goal is no longer attainable. In the less likely event of pursuit you can take advantage of their advance to engage as they come into your fire (assuming you are armed, if not keep moving).

In law enforcement circles, rapidly moving civilians away from the epicenter of the violent incident keeps them safer and establishing, where possible, safe distances for stand off where marksman can engage but are as protected as possible from the aggressor(s) is par for the course.

 

For your personal tactical priorities this encompasses the first. Run.

In the Run, Hide, Fight list of priority distance is your gain. Moving away, and when possible laterally with cover, gives you time, space, and opportunities to get to further toward safety. When necessary and legally appropriate, fighting to garner an additional opportunity to gain distance may be necessary.

Finally remember that lateral movement (movement perpendicular, left and right from aggressor perspective) to the target makes you much more difficult to hit. Short exposure times and quick movements are best. The longer you are exposed the more time they have to aim at you.

We Like Shooting Double Tap 058 – Aliens are real… ish

By
We Like Shooting
-

Welcome to We Like Shooting’s Double Tap, Episode 58, Where we answer your questions,  talk about new tech in the gun world, and touch base on gun industry news.

WLS Double Tap 058 – Aliens are real… ish

Coolers, Commerce and Calumny

By
Dr LateBloomer
-

In the ongoing battle of political righteousness versus lawful commerce, the virtue-signaling drama award for the week goes to… YETI and the NRA.

The NRA claimed that YETI cancelled their relationship and prior orders and called YETI’s behavior “unsportsmanlike”. Then YETI claimed that the NRA report was inaccurate, and they were simply realigning their programs, or somesuch.

One is left to think that though the NRA’s reaction might have been a tad too dramatic, YETI’s response was merely trying to damage-control their way out of a tight spot. NRA has now produced a counter-response, and there has been quite a bit of resultant social media drama. In the end, firearms owners and their wallets will make the final decision.

I personally think YETI will come out the ultimate loser, but I do not have a dog in this fight. I appreciated my freebie YETI cups that I got at SHOT range day the past two years, but the only insulated cup I’ve bought with my own cash was a Walmart knock-off for the happy-face price of ten bucks. Heck, I’m still using a cooler that was in my parent’s basement when my mother moved to a retirement home. I’m that cheap. Some people might be willing to sacrifice a car payment to keep their beer cold for an entire week, but I would not be one of them.

There are those though, who seem to be going overboard about this. NRA supporters have been shooting up their YETI coolers online, and there is video of some being literally BLOWN up. That seems a bit extreme to me. The adage about cutting off one’s nose to spite one’s face comes to mind. I also think that such a petulant display merely gives liberals more fodder for painting gun owners as unhinged nut jobs. 

With that said, given the amount of calumny that gun owners in general and the NRA in particular have been subjected to lately, I really can’t blame them for an over-the-top response to this latest kerfluffle. If they want to shoot up their own personal property which they spent hundreds of dollars on, that is their prerogative. However, I think covering up the YETI logo with an NRA sticker or three would be a wiser move.

Orca and Pelican coolers have both since entered the fray by offering statements of 2A support and even discounts for their products, or NRA donations for a purchase. This seems to me to be a more positive and “yay capitalism” type of response.

Despite the uproar, YETI is only the most recent liberal-leaning company to jump on the Condemnation-By-Commerce bandwagon. Other companies have led the charge – REI comes to mind, as does Delta Airlines and Citibank. There was even a derisive piece in the New Yorker recently, sneering at the appearance of Chick-Fil-A restaurants in liberal elite New York City.

Ain’t freedom grand though? I can spend my money wherever I wish – and so can they. But eventually virtue-boycotts lead to counter-boycotts, and pretty soon I’m going to need a computer algorithm to decide where to shop. I can’t even just punt and buy an Ozark Trail cooler from Walmart, because didn’t Walmart stop selling ARs the other year, and recently restrict ammo sales to those under 21?

There comes a point where it all just seems silly. I can have friends of different religions (and the 2A IS a religion to me), so why can’t I do business with companies that have different views than mine? Does every purchase have to be a political statement? Isn’t there a certain point where it’s JUST a chicken sandwich?

I for one, am putting my foot down. If someone offers me a drink after a long hot day at a match after the guns are put away, I am certainly NOT going to refuse a free beer just because it came out of a YETI cooler. In my mind that would truly be … unsportsmanlike.

States’ Rights vs. Federal Government Will and the Ramifications for Second Amendment Rights

By
MASF
-

The Legislation of Marijuana: States’ Rights vs. Federal Government Will and the Ramifications for Second Amendment Rights

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By: Birdie Andree – MASF Member

There are many cogent arguments both for and against the decriminalization of marijuana; for every positive reason one can find for cannabis legislation, there is a negative rejoinder to be found. Even if we narrow our focus solely to the medical aspect of this issue, we still encounter a vast spectrum of evidence supporting either side of the debate. A few examples of the significant therapeutic benefits of medicinal marijuana and its derivatives can serve to illustrate the validity of legalizing the drug. It is used to control pain, spasms, and sleep disturbances in patients with multiple sclerosis.(1)(2) It also successfully controls pain in patients with cancer,(3) AIDS,(4) and chronic migraine headaches.(5) It is being used to decrease seizure frequency in epileptic patients,(6) to treat wasting disease in HIV(7) and CNS(8) patients, to counteract the side effects of nausea and loss of appetite from chemotherapy.(9) Conversely, studies have also shown that using marijuana, even infrequently, interferes significantly with brain development in younger users(10)(11), and, in the case of long-term users, the loss of IQ points on a level akin to that of brain damage due to lead poisoning.(12) Cannabis use has been demonstrated to be a direct cause of the increased rate of strokes in otherwise healthy people as young as 19 years of age.(13) The drug has even been proven to be the source of outbreaks of salmonella(14) and aspergillus(15) contaminations which can cause lethal infections especially in the immunocompromised. Given the extreme dichotomy between the benign aspects of cannabis use and the potential for its abuse and possibly devastating side effects, states must carefully weigh the decision to legalize marijuana on any level. While some states have mandated that cannabis is safe enough to be sanctioned as a recreational drug, the vast majority of states that permit its use do so solely on a therapeutic level. In Alaska, Colorado, Oregon, Washington, and the District of Columbia where marijuana is deemed lawful as a recreational drug(16) there is little to no legal or social distinctions between the use of pot or alcohol. However, patients who must register for a medical marijuana card in states which only allow for the medicinal use of the plant are being forced to forfeit their Second Amendment rights to have access to doctor-recommended medicine. Unless the Federal government lifts the Schedule I status of marijuana, the legality of its use as a state level legally sanctioned medicine becomes moot. The fight between the States to legislate for their citizens and the Federal government to impose its will has become a battleground upon which citizens are being stripped of their constitutional rights.

Our system of checks and balances has served to protect cannabis-friendly states and their elected officials from federal prosecution by the Department of Justice and, if somewhat more slowly, to protect both the means of production and distribution of cannabis within those states. To insulate these states and put an end to the Justice Department’s overly zealous prosecution of marijuana producers and distributors operating legally within their borders, Representatives Dana Rohrabacher (R- California) and Sam Farr (D-California) sponsored an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2015 Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations bill, to wit: “None of the funds made available in this Act to the Department of Justice may be used… to prevent such States from implementing their own State laws that authorize the use, distribution, possession, or cultivation of medical marijuana.” (17)The House approved the spending bill and the amendment, section 542, along with it by a vote of 219 yays to 189 nays.(18) It did so again the following year with a vote of 242 to 186.(19) While the Rohrabacher-Farr amendment must be renewed each fiscal year, it would seem that the House of Representatives is committed to doing so. Notwithstanding the section 542 rider, the Justice Department continued to prosecute marijuana farmers and dispensaries. However in a consolidated case brought before the 9th Circuit Court in December of 2015, United States v. McIntosh, ten defendants argued that the DOJ had no standing to indict the defendants as they were protected under section 542. The court agreed, and in its ruling, filed on August 16, 2016, found that the accused were entitled to evidentiary hearings that they may be given a chance to prove their compliance with state regulations before the Justice Department could proceed to forfeiture and indictment. (20) Thusly, the states and their agents are protected, both under the law and in the courts, from legal persecution by the Federal government. However, as will be explored, the individual patient is not afforded these same protections and as such is forced to choose between access to their state-sanctioned medicine and their Second Amendment rights.

To comply with state regulations, a medicinal marijuana user must obtain a medicalmarijuana card. This act alone immediately precludes them from legally exercising their Second Amendment rights. With only “rare exceptions” allowed, every legal purchase of a gun must include a National Instant Criminal Background Check of the purchaser. The buyer must fill out ATF form 4473 which allows for said background check of them to proceed.(21) For this discussion, the most important question on form 4473 is Number 11, e. which asks “Are you an unlawful user of, or addicted to, marijuana or any depressant, stimulant, narcotic drug, or any other controlled substances?” Question 11,e. includes the following boldfaced warning: “The use or possession of marijuana remains unlawful under Federal law regardless of whether it has been legalized or decriminalized for medicinal or recreational purposes in the state where you reside.” (22) On September 21, 2011, the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and Explosives put out an “open letter to all federal firearms licensees.” The author of this letter, Arthur Herbert, Assistant Director of Enforcement Programs and Services for the ATF, categorically states that anyone who possesses a medical marijuana card is considered to be “an unlawful user of a controlled substance.” He further declares that it is illegal to “transfer firearms or ammunition to the person, even if the person answered ‘no’ to question 11.e. on ATF Form 4473.” (23) For a relevant case on point, we can examine Wilson v. Holder. On October 4th of 2011, Wilson attempted to purchase a handgun from a local gun store. The owner of the establishment knew Wilson personally, and as such, knew she was a registered medical marijuana cardholder. He followed the law and rightfully refused to sell her the gun she was attempting to purchase citing the open letter admonition from the ATF as his reason for refusal. As a result, Wilson then filed suit in the Federal District Court of Nevada, Wilson v. Holder, asserting that her Second Amendment Rights had been violated. The court rejected her arguments and dismissed the case with prejudice. (24) Wilson then appealed to thecourt of appeals. As with the case of United States v. McIntosh, the case of Wilson v. Loretta E. Lynch et al, was adjudicated by the 9th Circuit Court. However, in S. Rowan Wilson’s case, the court refused to protect Wilson’s rights and upheld a motion from the federal governmentdefendants to dismiss the case.(25) They based their conclusions on circular logic, faultysyllogism, and bad precedent.

Since the United States District Court for the District of Nevada had no direct precedent,
it cited the irrelevant case of The United States of America v. Kevin V. Dugan. The court stated that Kevin Dugan, a firearms dealer, grew, sold, and was a habitual user of marijuana. “A jury convicted him of, among other things, shipping and receiving firearms through interstate commerce while using a controlled substance, in violation of § 922(g).” In the court’s opinion, based solely on his use and sales of cannabis, Dugan forfeited his Second Amendment rights.(26)Wilson is distinguishable from Dugan in that Wilson did not traffic in firearms and was not proven to be an addict let alone even a one time user of marijuana. Indeed, she had no criminal history whatsoever. However, the lower court held that merely possessing a medical marijuana card was sufficient to place Wilson in the same category as Dugan, namely a habitual drug user who forfeited her Second Amendment rights. (24 p.13) On appeal, the Ninth Circuit Court found that Wilson had no standing to challenge the lower court’s ruling as she was to be believed on her claim that she had never used the drug. (25 p.12) In addition, the circuit court determined that the impact on Wilson’s Second Amendment rights due to the ATF’s open letter was minimal as she was only precluded from purchasing a firearm, not from owning one. (25 p.14) The court further stated that Wilson could regain her rights to purchase a firearm by “surrendering her registry card”. (25 p.15) Finally, both courts found that her fifth amendment rights to due process as concerns purchasing a firearm had not been violated as a result of the ATF’s open letter because Wilson’s possession of the medical marijuana card justified the government’s presumption that she was a habitual drug user and therefore had forfeited her second amendment rights.(24 p.15)(25 p.24) They packaged up Wilson as neatly as Schrödinger had boxed up his cat; clearly, both courts were determined to find that there had been no violations of Wilson’s Second Amendment rights.

Rowan Wilson has the option of returning her registration card to the State of Nevada to re-secure her Second Amendment rights; however, a patient who is dependent upon their medicine does not have the same luxury. While Congress has protected the states’ rights, and the courts have protected the rights of the growers and distributors, both have turned their backs on the most vulnerable, the patients. It becomes readily apparent that the Federal Government, and the courts working as its agents, are using the discrepancy between the Schedule I designation of marijuana and the state-sanctioned medical use of the drug to further a specific political agenda; namely, to curtail the Second Amendment rights of medical marijuana patients. As of March 1, 2016, there are one million two hundred forty-six thousand one hundred seventy registered legal medical marijuana patients in the United States,(27) and every single one of them has had to forfeit their Second Amendment rights. It is unconscionable that so many United States citizens have been forced to choose between their health and their constitutionally protected rights. Half of the states in America have already legalized cannabis use on some level while more are poised to do so; couple this with the knowledge that our courts are already over populated with judges who are willing to twist or ignore existing laws to “make policy” or push a political agenda. The implications for the immediate and long-term ramifications to our right to bear arms are staggering.

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Biography:
Birdie Andree is a mother, grandmother, as well as a full-time student. She started shooting in 2007 and is a very active member in the shooting community. She is also a NRA member in addition to being a contributing member to MASF.

End Notes

1. ”Treating-MS, Complementary-Alternative-Medicines, MARIJUANA (CANNABIS).” MS
National Multiple Sclerosis Scociety. N.p., nd. Web. 2. Zajicek JP, Hobart JC, Slade A, Barnes D, Mattison PG; MUSEC Research Group. Multiple sclerosis and extract of cannabis: results of the MUSEC trial.Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry (2012) 83(11):1125-32. Web.doi: 10.1136/ jnnp-2012-302468.3. Johnson, MB chB, Jeremy R., Mary Burnell-Nugent, Dominique Lossignol, Elena D. Ganae-
Motan, and Marie T. Fallon. “Multicenter, Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group Study of the Efficacy, Safety, and Tolerability of THC:CBD Extract and THC Extract in Patients with Intractable Cancer-Related.” Journal of Pain and Symptom Management 52.3 (2010): 167-79. Web. 14 Oct. 2016. <DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2009.06.008>.4. Abrams, D.I., C.A. Jay, S.B. Shade, H. Vizoso, and H. Reda. “Cannabis in painful HIVassociated sensory neuropathy.” Neurology 68.7 (2007): 515-21. Web. 14 Oct. 2016.
<doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1212/01.wnl.0000253187.66183.9c>.5. Borgelt, Laura M. “Effects of medical marijuana on migraine headache frequency in an adult population.” Pharmacotherapy 36.5 (2016): 505-10. Web. doi: 10.1002/phar.16736. Devinsky, Orrin, Maria R. Cilio, Helen Cross, Javier Fernandez-Ruiz, and Jacqueline French.
“Cannabidiol: Pharmacology and potential therapeutic role in epilepsy and other neuropsychiatric disorders.” Epilepsia 55.6 (2014): 791-802. Web. DOI: 10.1111/epi.126317. Struwe, Melissa, Suzanne H. Kaempfer, Constance J. Geiger, Andrew T. Pavia, and Terry F.
Plasse. “Effect of Dronabinol on Nutritional Status in HIV Infection.” AOP Annals of Pharmacotherapy 27.7 (1993): 827-31. Web. doi: 10.1177/106002809302700701
     

8. Croxford, J. Ludovic. “Therapeutic Potential of Cannabinoids in CNS Disease.” CNS Drugs
17.3 (2012): 179-202. Web.
doi:10.2165/00023210-200317030-000049. Jatoi, A., Windschitl, H.E., Loprinzi, C.L., Sloan, J.A., Dakhil, S.R., Mailliard, J.A.,
Pundaleeka, S., Kardinal, C.G., Fitch, T.R., Krook, J.E., Novotny, P.J. and Christensen,
B.“Dronabinol versus megestrol acetate versus combination therapy for cancerassociated
anorexia: a North Central Cancer Treatment Group study”. Journal of Clinical
Oncology,(2002):20(2), 567-73. Web.10. Weir, Kirsten. “Marijuana and the developing brain.” American Psychological Association
46.10: (2015) 37 pars. Web.11. Filbey, Francesca M., Tim McQueeny, Samuel J. DeWitt, and Virednra Mishra. “Preliminary findings demonstrating latent effects of early adolescent marijuana use onset on cortical architecture.” Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience 16 (2015): 16-22. Web.
doi:10.1016/j.dcn.2015.10.00112. Meier, Madeline H., Avshalom Caspi, Antony Ambler, HonaLee Harrington, and Renate
Houts. “Persistent cannabis users show neuropsychological decline from childhood to
midlife.” PNAS 109.40 (2012): 30 pars. Web. doi: 10.1073/pnas.120682010913. Wolff, Valerie, Jean-Paul Armspach, Valerie Lauer, Olivier Rouyer, and Marc Bataillard.
“Cannabis-related Stroke: Myth or Reality?” Stoke 44.2 (2013): 558-63. Web.
doi:10.1161/STROKEAHA.112.67134714. Taylor, M.D., David N., Kaye Wachsmuth, Ph. D., Yung-hui Shangkaun, M.S., Emmet V.
Schmidt, M.D., and Timothy J. Barrett, M.S. “Salmonellosis Associated with
Marijuana- A Multistate Outbreak Traced by Plasmid Fingerprinting.” The New England
Journal of Medicine 306.21 (1982): 1249-53. Web. DOI: 10.1056/
NEJM19820527306210115. Gargani, Yousef, Paul Bishop, and David W. Denning. “Too Many Mouldy Joints-Marijuana
and Chronic Pulmonary Asperigillosis.” Mediterranean Journal of Hematology and
Infectious Diseases 3.1 (2011): 16 pars. Web. doi: 10.4084/MJHID.2011.00516. State Marijuana Laws Map. Map. Governing. Ed. Zach Patton, Elizabeth Daigneau, Alan
Ehrenhalt, Paul W. Taylor, and Penelope Lemov. N.p., 26 May 2016. Web.
http://www.governing.com/gov-data/state-marijuana-laws-map-medical-recreational.html17. Sullum, Jacob. “9th Circuit Says Feds May Not Prosecute State-Legal Medical Marijuana
Suppliers: The appeals court rules that Congress has forbidden such interference.”
reason.come 17 Aug. 2016: 9 pars. Web.
<http://reason.com/blog/2016/08/17/9th-circuit-says-feds-may-not-prosecute>.18. Farr, Sam. “Farr Statement on Rohrabacher-Farr Medical Marijuana Amendment.”
Congressman Sam Farr: Representing California’s Central Coast (CA-20). N.p., 2014.
Web.19. ”Rohrabacher Hails Passage of Medical Marijuana Amendment.” Congressman Dana
Rohrabacher: Proudly Serving California’s 48th District. N.p., 4 June 2015. Web.20. ”United States of America, Plaintiff-Appellee, v. Steve McIntosh, et al Defendant-Appellant
Opinion.” United States Courts for the Ninth Circuit. Ed. Diarmuid F. O’Scannlain. N.p.,
16 Aug. 2015. Web.
<https://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2016/08/16/15-10117.pdf>.21. ”Private Sales Restrictions and Gun Registration.” NRA-ILA: Institute for Legislative Action.
N.p., 17 Jan. 2013. Web.
<https://www.nraila.org/articles/20130117/private-sales-restrictions-and-gun-registration>.22 ”Firearms Transaction Record OMB No, 1140-0020.” ATF Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco,
Firearms and Explosives. N.p., n.d. Web. 12
<https://www.atf.gov/resource-center/docs/form-example-firearms-transaction-record/
download>.

23.Herbert, Arthur. “Open Letter to all Federal Firearms Licensees.” ATF Bureau of Alcohol,
Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. N.p., 21 Sept. 2011. Web.
<https://www.atf.gov/file/60211/download>

24.Gloria M “S.Rowan Wilson, an individual, Plaintiff, vs. Eric Holder et al Case No.:
2:11-cv-01679-GMN-PAL.” JUSTIA Dockets & Filings. N.p., 11 Mar. 2014. Web. 9
<https://cases.justia.com/federal/district-courts/nevada/nvdce/
2:2011cv01679/83947/49/0.pdf?ts=1394721175>.

25. Rakoff, Jed S. “S. Rowan Wilson, Plaintiff-Appellant, v. Loretta E. Lynch et al: No 14-15700
D.C.No. 2:11-CV-01679-GMN-Pal Opinion.” United States Courts for the Ninth Circuit.
N.p., 31 Aug. 2016. Web. 11
<http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2016/08/31/14-15700.p

26. Graber, Susan P. “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Plaintiff-Appellee KEVIN V. DUGAN,
Defendant-Appellant. No. 08-10579 D.C. No.5:03-cr-20010-0- RMW-1 OPINION.” United
States Courts for the Ninth Circuit. N.p., 20 Sept. 2011. Web.
<http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2011/09/20/08-10579.pdf>Navarro,

27. “How Many Legal Medical Marijuana Patients Are There in the United States?” Chart.
ProCon.org . Web. 8 Oct. 2016.
<http://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/view.resource.php?resourceID=005889>.
Calvin College openURL resolver

Works Cited

Abrams, D.I., C.A. Jay, S.B. Shade, H. Vizoso, and H. Reda. “Cannabis in painful HIVassociated
sensory neuropathy.” Neurology 68.7 (2007): 515-21. Web. 14 Oct. 2016.
<doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1212/01.wnl.0000253187.66183.9c>.Borgelt, Laura M. “Effects of medical marijuana on migraine headache frequency in an adult
population.” Pharmacotherapy 36.5 (2016): 505-10. Web.
doi: 10.1002/phar.1673Croxford, J. Ludovic. “Therapeutic Potential of Cannabinoids in CNS Disease.” CNS Drugs 17.3
(2012): 179-202. Web.
doi:10.2165/00023210-200317030-00004Devinsky, Orrin, Maria R. Cilio, Helen Cross, Javier Fernandez-Ruiz, and Jacqueline French.
“Cannabidiol: Pharmacology and potential therapeutic role in epilepsy and other
neuropsychiatric disorders.” Epilepsia 55.6 (2014): 791-802. Web.
DOI: 10.1111/epi.12631Farr, Sam. “Farr Statement on Rohrabacher-Farr Medical Marijuana Amendment.”
Congressman Sam Farr: Representing California’s Central Coast (CA-20). N.p., 2014.
Web.Filbey, Francesca M., Tim McQueeny, Samuel J. DeWitt, and Virednra Mishra. “Preliminary
findings demonstrating latent effects of early adolescent marijuana use onset on cortical
architecture.” Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience 16 (2015): 16-22. Web.
doi:10.1016/j.dcn.2015.10.001Gargani, Yousef, Paul Bishop, and David W. Denning. “Too Many Mouldy Joints-Marijuana and
Chronic Pulmonary Asperigillosis.” Mediterranean Journal of Hematology and Infectious
Diseases 3.1 (2011): 16 pars. Web. doi: 10.4084/MJHID.2011.005Graber, Susan P. “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Plaintiff-Appellee KEVIN V. DUGAN,
Defendant-Appellant. No. 08-10579 D.C. No.5:03-cr-20010-0- RMW-1 OPINION.” United
States Courts for the Ninth Circuit. N.p., 20 Sept. 2011. Web.
<http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2011/09/20/08-10579.pdf>.Herbert, Arthur. “Open Letter to all Federal Firearms Licensees.” ATF Bureau of Alcohol,
Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. N.p., 21 Sept. 2011. Web.
<https://www.atf.gov/file/60211/download>

Works Cited

 Abrams, D.I., C.A. Jay, S.B. Shade, H. Vizoso, and H. Reda. “Cannabis in painful HIVassociated sensory neuropathy.” Neurology 68.7 (2007): 515-21. Web. 14 Oct. 2016.<doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1212/01.wnl.0000253187.66183.9c>.

Borgelt, Laura M. “Effects of medical marijuana on migraine headache frequency in an adult population.” Pharmacotherapy 36.5 (2016): 505-10. Web. doi: 10.1002/phar.1673

Croxford, J. Ludovic. “Therapeutic Potential of Cannabinoids in CNS Disease.” CNS Drugs 17.3 (2012): 179-202. Web. doi:10.2165/00023210-200317030-00004

Devinsky, Orrin, Maria R. Cilio, Helen Cross, Javier Fernandez-Ruiz, and Jacqueline French. “Cannabidiol: Pharmacology and potential therapeutic role in epilepsy and other neuropsychiatric disorders.” Epilepsia 55.6 (2014): 791-802. Web. DOI: 10.1111/epi.12631

Farr, Sam. “Farr Statement on Rohrabacher-Farr Medical Marijuana Amendment.” Congressman Sam Farr: Representing California’s Central Coast (CA-20). N.p., 2014. Web.

Filbey, Francesca M., Tim McQueeny, Samuel J. DeWitt, and Virednra Mishra. “Preliminary findings demonstrating latent effects of early adolescent marijuana use onset on cortical architecture.” Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience 16 (2015): 16-22. Web. doi:10.1016/j.dcn.2015.10.001

Gargani, Yousef, Paul Bishop, and David W. Denning. “Too Many Mouldy Joints-Marijuana and Chronic Pulmonary Asperigillosis.” Mediterranean Journal of Hematology and Infectious Diseases 3.1 (2011): 16 pars. Web. doi: 10.4084/MJHID.2011.005

Graber, Susan P. “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Plaintiff-Appellee KEVIN V. DUGAN, Defendant-Appellant. No. 08-10579 D.C. No.5:03-cr-20010-0- RMW-1 OPINION.” United States Courts for the Ninth Circuit. N.p., 20 Sept. 2011. Web. <http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2011/09/20/08-10579.pdf>.

Herbert, Arthur. “Open Letter to all Federal Firearms Licensees.” ATF Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. N.p., 21 Sept. 2011. Web. <https://www.atf.gov/file/60211/download>

Jatoi, A., Windschitl, H.E., Loprinzi, C.L., Sloan, J.A., Dakhil, S.R., Mailliard, J.A., Pundaleeka, S., Kardinal, C.G., Fitch, T.R., Krook, J.E., Novotny, P.J. and Christensen, B.“Dronabinol versus megestrol acetate versus combination therapy for cancerassociated anorexia: a North Central Cancer Treatment Group study”. Journal of Clinical Oncology,(2002):20(2), 567-73. Web.

Johnson, MB chB, Jeremy R., Mary Burnell-Nugent, Dominique Lossignol, Elena D. Ganae-

Motan, and Marie T. Fallon. “Multicenter, Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group Study of the Efficacy, Safety, and Tolerability of THC:CBD Extract and THC Extract in Patients with Intractable Cancer-Related.” Journal of Pain and Symptom Management 52.3 (2010): 167-79. Web. 14 Oct. 2016. <DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2009.06.008>.

Meier, Madeline H., Avshalom Caspi, Antony Ambler, HonaLee Harrington, and Renate Houts. “Persistent cannabis users show neuropsychological decline from childhood to midlife.” PNAS 109.40 (2012): 30 pars. Web. doi: 10.1073/pnas.1206820109

Navarro, Gloria M.”S.Rowan Wilson, an individual, Plaintiff, vs. Eric Holder et al Case No.:2:11-cv-01679-GMN-PAL.” JUSTIA Dockets & Filings. N.p., 11 Mar. 2014. Web. 9 <https://cases.justia.com/federal/district-courts/nevada/nvdce/2:2011cv01679/83947/49/0.pdf?ts=1394721175>.

O’Scannlain, Diarmuid F.”United States of America, Plaintiff-Appellee, v. Steve McIntosh, et al Defendant-Appellant Opinion.” United States Courts for the Ninth Circuit. N.p.,16 Aug. Web. <https://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2016/08/16/15-10117.pdf>.

Rakoff, Jed S. “S. Rowan Wilson, Plaintiff-Appellant, v. Loretta E. Lynch et al: No 14-15700 D.C.No. 2:11-CV-01679-GMN-Pal Opinion.” United States Courts for the Ninth Circuit. N.p., 31 Aug. 2016. Web. 11 <http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2016/08/31/14-15700.pdf>.

Struwe, Melissa, Suzanne H. Kaempfer, Constance J. Geiger, Andrew T. Pavia, and Terry F. Plasse. “Effect of Dronabinol on Nutritional Status in HIV Infection.” AOP Annals of Pharmacotherapy 27.7 (1993): 827-31. Web. doi: 10.1177/106002809302700701

Sullum, Jacob. “9th Circuit Says Feds May Not Prosecute State-Legal Medical Marijuana Suppliers: The appeals court rules that Congress has forbidden such interference.”reason.come 17 Aug. 2016: 9 pars. Web. <http://reason.com/blog/2016/08/17/9th-circuit-says-feds-may-not-prosecute>.

Taylor, M.D., David N., Kaye Wachsmuth, Ph. D., Yung-hui Shangkaun, M.S., Emmet V. Schmidt, M.D., and Timothy J. Barrett, M.S. “Salmonellosis Associated with Marijuana- A Multistate Outbreak Traced by Plasmid Fingerprinting.” The New England Journal of Medicine 306.21 (1982): 1249-53. Web. DOI: 10.1056/NEJM198205273062101

Works Cited

Weir, Kirsten. “Marijuana and the developing brain.” American Psychological Association 46.10: (2015) 37 pars. Web.

Wolff, Valerie, Jean-Paul Armspach, Valerie Lauer, Olivier Rouyer, and Marc Bataillard. “Cannabis-related Stroke: Myth or Reality?” Stoke 44.2 (2013): 558-63. Web. doi:10.1161/STROKEAHA.112.671347

Zajicek JP, Hobart JC, Slade A, Barnes D, Mattison PG; MUSEC Research Group. Multiple sclerosis and extract of cannabis: results of the MUSEC trial.Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry (2012) 83(11):1125-32. Web. doi: 10.1136/jnnp-2012-302468.

“Firearms Transaction Record OMB No, 1140-0020.” ATF Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. N.p., n.d. Web. 12 <https://www.atf.gov/resource-center/docs/form-example-firearms-transaction-record/download>.

“How Many Legal Medical Marijuana Patients Are There in the United States?” Chart. ProCon.org . Web. 8 Oct. 2016. <http://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/view.resource.php?resourceID=005889>. Calvin College openURL resolver

“Private Sales Restrictions and Gun Registration.” NRA-ILA: Institute for Legislative Action. N.p., 17 Jan. 2013. Web. <https://www.nraila.org/articles/20130117/private-sales-restrictions-and-gun-registration>.

“Rohrabacher Hails Passage of Medical Marijuana Amendment.” Congressman Dana Rohrabacher: Proudly Serving California’s 48th District. N.p., 4 June 2015. Web. 

State Marijuana Laws Map. Map. Governing. Ed. Zach Patton, Elizabeth Daigneau, Alan Ehrenhalt, Paul W. Taylor, and Penelope Lemov. N.p., 26 May 2016. Web. http://www.governing.com/gov-data/state-marijuana-laws-map-medical-recreational.html

“Treating-MS, Complementary-Alternative-Medicines, MARIJUANA (CANNABIS).” MS National Multiple Sclerosis Scociety. N.p., nd. Web.

We Like Shooting 240 – Totally normal mic

By
We Like Shooting
-

Welcome to the We Like Shooting show, Episode 240 – tonight we’ll talk about 9mm build update, Gunnit rust build, black rhino concealment, ATI grips, and more!

WLS 240 – Totally normal mic

Haley Strategic Partners Micro Chest Rig: First Impressions

By
Keith Finch
-

Haley Strategic Partners just released the D3CRM Micro Chest Rig.

This trimmer offering of their chest rig line offers users a smaller, lighter, and more compact profiled option for torso riding magazines and equipment.

In addition the rig is truly modular in a way the previous rigs were not with removable and replaceable inserts that cover 3 AR sized magazines, 2 .308/7.62×51 magazines, or 4 pistol caliber carbine/submachinegun magazines. Two pockets with retention bungee for pistol magazines, one on each end, increase on deck ammunition and increase the total capacity to 6 potential PCC magazines if you forego running any ammunition for a sidearm from the Micro. A small administrative pouch sits on the front with a Velcro strip on the outside and a full Velcro panel on the interior along with some elastic bands that can wrap around to hold equipment. Lights, note pad, GPS unit, or a small aid kit could easily ride in the space.

Configured for AR mags the 4 position insert under the MP5 magazines converts the micro in a couple minutes to the pistol caliber configuration. The 7.62/.308 marksman configuration rig is just as easily added with one or two mag inserts.

As a standalone item or able to be attached or worn over armor the Micro offers the wearer an organized low bulk option to quickly access and carry additional ammunition and mission essential equipment.

Clear design elements focus on quick reactive emergency response instead of a sustained mission load, the Mirco compliments a first-responder’s staged equipment by being placeable in a small out of the way space. 11.5″x7″x3.5″ roughly for a space to stow the AR configured rig loaded. Combined with belt mounted magazine pouches it is not hard to carry 6+ magazines. Double or triple magazine pouches on the front of hard armor get thick quick, I prefer a single row close to the chest if feasible and the Micro runs admirably in that regard.

I ordered the Micro with all 3 configuration inserts as I have weapon systems in all 3 styles. It is currently the only piece of equipment I have that can easily make the transition between a pistol caliber carbine load out and a rifle. Even excellent pouches like the G-Code Scorpions, which do work, are not specifically configurable to run pistol caliber carbine magazines and 5.56/7.62 rifle magazines.

PCC and .308/7.62 inserts next to some P-Mags

The 5.56 and 7.62 inserts come with the MP2 polymer retention devices and are designed to run them while running magazines, they are removable to substitute other equipment. The MP2’s allow the mags to ‘click’ in and out, being held place while moving but removing the need for a bungee over top that would slow an emergency reload.

So far, in the time I’ve spent running the new rig dry, I like it. It dawns quickly using the X-Harness system, tightening down like most harness buckle set ups (though I wish their were an on board way to control the slack and excess strap, it would be difficult as the design lends itself to be put on and tightened as opposed to sized). It reconfigured easily using the Velcro surround structure, from one set up you can change to another in a couple minutes from start to setting the new magazines in place and putting the rig back on.

The Haley Strategic Micro offers the best execution of a multi-platform configurable rig I have seen to date. For an individual or unit with a variable mission capability requirement that wants to run a quick consistent system it will be hard to beat.

I will run it through some courses and my own drills over the summer and we will see if I can find the weak spots. I’ve got an AR500 Chest Rig Adapter coming for the plate carrier and we’ll see if this runs smoother than the X-Harness over armor.

MAKING SENSE OF PISTOL SIGHTS

By
A Girl and a Gun
-

by Jim Majoros, President
Viktor’s Legacy Custom Gunsmithing LLC

Having the right sights on your handgun is important, and there are many different options from which to choose: combat sights, fiber-optic, tritium and white dot. Let’s explore the available options and what they can help you achieve.

Combat type sights are basic and straight forward. They are all black, have a wide front blade, wide rear notch, and are non-adjustable, providing quick acquisition of your front blade. They are not designed to help you shoot in small tight groupings. Rather, they allow you to get on your target quickly, bury the front sight in the rear notch and press the trigger- making them the right type of sight for the job.

White dot sights are similar to combat sights, with a white dot on the front sight and two dots on the rear sight. They come standard on most factory guns. White dot sights promote good visibility at the range. They can be fixed or adjustable. Bury the front blade in the rear notch on your target, line up the dots horizontally and press the trigger.

Fiber optic sights provide a popular upgrade. Both front and rear sights have fiber optic tubes that gather ambient light and enhance the visibility of the sights. They work well in lower light and are phenomenal in brightly lit conditions. The sights glow like little light bulbs, so they are hard to miss! Standard fiber optic sights come with a red front and two green rear dots. Don’t let anyone tell you that is the only way you can get them- and don’t be concerned with the position of the colors, because they can easily be changed! All green, green front and red rear, all red…it can be done. Depending on the manufacturer, you can get them with fixed or adjustable rear. The front blades and rear notch come in differing widths (front sights from .090 to .150 wide, and rear sights from .125 to .160 wide) but the standard width rear notch is usually .150 with the front blade at .125. This results in a narrow lateral displacement, forcing you to be more precise with sight alignment/sight picture- think smaller groupings! You can tailor your front sight width and rear sight notch to achieve the perfect setup for you.

Tritium sights are like fiber optic sights, except they have tritium vials installed. Tritium is the same material that is in the dial of a watch to make the numbers glow in the dark. These sights work best in no-light conditions, and they work like white dot sights in daylight conditions. The vials last for about 10 years. A good number of manufacturers offer tritium sights- however, there are just a few companies that are licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to handle and install the vials for those manufacturers. For that reason you may notice a name other than the manufacturer’s on the sights.

There are also different styles of sights:
“Carry” style sights are slanted so that they won’t get hooked on clothing or holsters.
“Charger” style sights are square and blocky. They enable you to “charge” your weapon against your shoe, pants, table top or any other surface- useful if you have to shoot to slide lock, reload, and continue defending yourself if you are fallen or injured.

Adjustable rear sights allow you to tailor your point of impact to your style of shooting. It’s likely that once they are adjusted, you’re going to leave them that way.
Fixed rear sights will shoot where you look, if installed correctly. Why not consider using ones that are properly installed by a competent gunsmith? They One Texas company has a “Perfect Impact Guarantee.” If you buy their sight set for your gun, the sights will be at the correct elevation for the distance you are shooting. Lateral sight adjustment is up to your installer.

Your sights need to be changed if you can’t see them properly. Some sights are very difficult to remove and install, and require special tooling for this. If you insist on changing your own sights PLEASE go to the manufacturer’s website for instruction. I’ve seen videos on YouTube of guys using air chisels to drift sights out of their guns, all the while swearing that is the only correct way to do it. I can assure you, the results of their techniques may not be satisfactory. There is a very good reason why I have an expensive collection of sight removal and installation tools at my shop! When in doubt, consult a good gunsmith.

Good Luck, good shooting, and be safe!!

SOURCE ARTICLE: https://www.agirlandagun.org/making-sense-pistol-sights/

Things You Hear in a Gun Store: The Reliability of ‘Experts’

By
Keith Finch
-

Readers,

I’m certain nearly all of you have heard at least one truly absurd item emerge from the mouth of somebody at a gun counter.

It is honestly expected. Everyone has heard or picked up something as gospel that is entirely fictitious and being the helpful folks we are we enjoy sharing. This is usually as harmless as it is ridiculous.

But not always.

Friends of mine run a gun store. They operate within a state that requires pistol registration.

Anything that is federally defined as a pistol legally must have the serial number and physical description on record with the state. Additionally any firearm that meets the state’s separate legal definition must be recorded.

With that in mind a stripped receiver is its own entity. While legally a serialized firearm it is not complete and cannot meet a rifle or pistol definition. This does not stop the local authorities from trying to improperly classify it.

 

They received a call from their local LEO’s firearms records department informing them they were in noncompliance for selling stripped receivers without registering them as pistols. They politely informed the department that they were incorrect and the registry is required if and when the receiver is assembled into a pistol by federal or state definiton.

 

Just to be certain they called the state firearm authority.

To which they received the answer ‘no, receivers do not need to be registered’.

Correct.

‘Receivers are not firearms’

Incorrect. Receivers are absolutely firearms in the eyes of the federal firearms authorities, thus they are serialized. But they are not rifles or pistols. They are an ‘Other Firearm’, which covers serialized frames and receivers.

So after this second piece of incorrect information from an authority within the departments who are supposed to know they talked to a state supervisor.

‘You have to be 21 to buy firearms in the state so it does not matter if it is registered or not’.

Nothing in that conveyance by the state supervisory authority on firearms is correct, spoken to a Federal Firearms Licensee whose very businesses’ existence depends on proper compliance with the law. Nothing.

In the state in question the legal age for ownership is 18. Both pistol and rifle can be purchased at 18 unless federal law states otherwise, like in the cases of NFA items or purchasing a pistol from a FFL.

Receivers, since they can become pistols or NFA items upon completion, fall into the law federally as necessitating 21 years of age.

And registration matters.

Having a firearm that the state requires to be registered that is not can be legally quite expensive and result in the firearm’s confiscation and possible forfeiture. The state’s definition of a pistol must be adhered too in addition to the firearm’s federal definition and those definitions are drastically different. If the firearm meets the state’s definition it must be registered regardless of the federal definition. This additionally confers the legal benefits of the firearm being a pistol within the state.

Registration absolutely matters.

 

We don’t need to trust in the random firearms knowledge of the random strangers at the firearm store. Or the range. We can trust but verify with very little risk, unless it gets legal. In that case always verify.

But when that verification is so blatantly wrong? What do you do then? Who watches the watchers, especially when their business is on the line? Do you take the false and at times illegal advice from the legal ‘authority’?

No.

You comply with the law. Not the random book keeper(s) who should not be on the FAQ line with bad info. Verify, verify, verify.

Credibly.

Lawyer.

REDEFINING PLINKING

By
A Girl and a Gun
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According to Wikipedia, “The term plinking is an onomatopoeia of the sharp, metallic sound (or “plink”) that a projectile makes when hitting a metal target such as a tin can. The most common caliber used for plinking is the .22 Long Rifle rimfire cartridge, since these rounds are relatively inexpensive and have a low recoil.” Well, that sounds… boring!

Plinking is actually so much fun, and it can be an asset to firearms training.

Because the name plinking is derived from the sound a .22 bullet makes on a target, it suggests that time at the range doing this activity is not serious practice time. You may even hear, “I’m just gonna go plink some rounds.” Any time you can get to a range and do live-fire shooting with any gun of any caliber should have some purpose behind it. Without focus you are just wasting ammo and potentially picking up bad habits.

Redefining Plinking

Using a .22 caliber pistol or rifle is commonly used to introduce the basics of marksmanship to new shooters and youth. It has low recoil and is economically priced. The down side is they tend to have a smaller grip, which has very different ergonomics in the load-and-make-ready process and trigger press. The smaller gun can require a completely different set-up and muscle memory. A great way to integrate a .22 into your training is to have the same or similar style model of your carry or competition gun in the smaller caliber. Using a conversion kit you can modify your primary gun so that it fires 22lr ammo so that you can enjoy the benefits of a .22. You get the fun and low-cost of plinking, but still have the opportunity to practice your marksmanship and build muscle memory on your primary gun.

Choosing the right ammo for your .22 caliber pistol or rifle is very important. Purchasing .22 ammo can be confusing so reference your owner’s manual and read online reviews about your gun and which ammo performs the best. Keep in mind .22 ammo is known for being “cheaper” in cost, but don’t just buy what is cheap; it might not run in your gun and it is wasted money.

SOURCE ARTICLE: https://www.agirlandagun.org/redefining-plinking/

We Like Shooting Double Tap 057 – Vanil-lame

By
We Like Shooting
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Welcome to We Like Shooting’s Double Tap, Episode 57, Where we answer your questions,  talk about new tech in the gun world, and touch base on gun industry news.

We Like Shooting Double Tap 057 – Vanil-lame

After Action Review (AAR) of Green Ops – Defensive Carbine for AR Platforms

By
MASF
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By: Mark Farage – MASF Member

AAR: Green Ops – Defensive Carbine for AR Platforms I (09/20/15 – NRA Headquarters Range)

I don’t like reading long dissertation style after-action reports on classes so, I’ll try and keep this short, informative, and to the point.

Any time that I go check-out a new instructor / teacher, I always make it a point to take one of their basic courses. It’s a great way to be introduced to an instructor / teacher and it’s a great way for you to be introduced to them. Trust me, as an instructor / teacher myself, getting to know your students (their capabilities – strengths and weaknesses) is uber important. Also, if an instructor can’t teach the fundamentals well… well, that’s a bad sign. As such, I took the Defensive Carbine for AR Platforms I course from Green Ops last night at the NRA Range.

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Overall, I was impressed by the course and will definitely take additional classes from Mike Green. The course opened up with some basic classroom information on defensive firearm use and safety information. I won’t bore you with the details…but the details are important…particularly in light of today’s litigious culture. Just know that the hour spent in the classroom goes quickly and you will be on the range soon.

Range time started with a 5-round zero course of fire and ended with a barricade shoot / no-shoot decision course of fire. In between those two courses of fire the group of ten students was broken down into two groups and the groups alternated between courses of fire and rest periods. The courses of fire included, but were not limited to: 1-shot ready drills, 2-shot ready drills, 1-shot / reload / 1-shot ready drills, 1-shot / reload / 2-shot ready drills, multiple-target transition drills, etc. All-in-all what you would expect from a basic carbine course.

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I really appreciated the fact that we covered malfunctions but, we didn’t spend any actual range time on clearing malfunctions. In a 4-hour course format there just isn’t enough time to train on malfunctions. I know there are a gazillion different opinions out there on malfunction training but, in this area I completely agree with Mike Green, save the majority of your malfunction training for off-range time. In today’s busy world a lot of us have limited time to hit the range and that time is better spent shooting. I fully support malfunction training in more advanced classes, but a basic class shouldn’t get bogged down in malfunction training. As an aside, I’ve run a combined 50,000 rounds through my two primary guns (a Noveske MK18 and a SCAR CQC – yes, I’ve changed barrels, bolts, firing pins, springs, etc.) and I’ve only had a handful of malfunctions outside of those purposely induced by instructors / teachers. What’s the lesson; invest in good equipment if you’re going to trust your life or the lives of your loved ones to that equipment.

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Mike is a really good teacher, he takes time to work with each student, his demonstrations were spot on and he does a great job of teaching “methods” and reiterating that “methods” are just that…”methods” on how to do something not “the only way” to do something. I was really impressed with the fact that he spent time with each student on each drill, giving pointers here or there depending upon the need (skill based). I was also impressed with Mike’s demeanor, he’s a good instructor / teacher and as a good instructor / teacher he didn’t feel the need to stroke his ego… I always like that in instructors / teachers. Being humble is a rare commodity these days… and Mike has that mastered. Mike also did a great job of fielding questions and answering them but, also keeping on point.

At the end of the day we all (well most of us) have limited resources, limited time, and limited ammo… so, would I recommend you investing in a training class with Mike; absolutely. There aren’t that many short-format courses out there and I think Mike has really filled a niche and the location for the DMV can’t be beat. A special thanks also goes to the NRA range staff for keeping everyone safe.

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If you have any questions, let me know and I will answer them as best as I can based upon my experience.

-Mark William Farage

Bio Picture - Mark Farage

Biography:

Mark Farage is the founder of Farage Precision, LLC and a minority owner of Ronin Combat Strategies.  Mark is a “teacher” with a highly diverse skill set honed from a wide range of experiences, travels, and training.  His background includes, but is not limited to: competitive shooting, professional firearm instruction, extensive off-road experience, advanced first aid training, global travel, and, combative tactics.  As a shooter he is an avid USPSA, IDPA, 3-Gun, 2-Gun, Precision Rifle Series, and Steel Challenge competitor and he gained practical firearms experience as a private military contractor working in the Middle East.  In the area of vehicle dependent travel he has participated in off-road adventures from Columbia to Vietnam, he’s been getting off of the beaten path for over 20 years, and he has a reputation for building some of the most capable overland vehicles ranging from Land Rovers to Toyotas.  He has attended numerous driving and recovery schools and is well versed in a full-spectrum of vehicle operations.  Mark has also traveled the globe and visited every continent with the exception of Antarctica.

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Mark has extensive experience working for international corporations in the area of global risk management, fraud mitigation and resolution, and corporate criminal investigations throughout North and South America, Asia, and Europe.  His investigations have led to the prosecution and imprisonment of individuals on the local, state, and federal level.  Mark currently works for a publicly traded company in the Washington, D.C. Metro area and continues to maintain industry contacts in the off-road, firearms, military, and medical community.  Mark has an undergraduate degree and Masters of Business Administration from Christian Brothers University; he is a Certified Internal Auditor, Certified Fraud Examiner, Certified Information Systems Auditor, and a NRA certified firearms instructor.

Mark is an adventurer at heart and does not let his Osteogenesis Imperfecta prevent him from enjoying and thriving in life.  Mark enjoys CrossFit, climbing, hiking, fishing, camping, wrenching on his off-road vehicle, and reading when he is not knee-deep in an adventure.

SOURCE ARTICLE: http://masf.co/2016/08/17/after-action-review-aar-of-green-ops-defensive-carbine-for-ar-platforms/

AR500 Armor Wants You in PE!

By
Keith Finch
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Polyethylene

The fine folks of AR500 dropped me a line that their latest addition to their rifle armor offerings is on sale. 

Seriously on sale.

Like an exceptional Testudo carrier and UHMWPE plates for less than a pair of plates normally on sale.

Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene offers a lighter weight, greater mobility, increased comfort load out of rifle rated hard armor and AR500 has them ready to go.

These continue to ride as my standard plates. In case you missed the review it’s here.

And below.

 

 

 

 

There is a universal truth to armor.

It sucks to wear.

The materials capable of stopping a bullet or shrapnel impact and imposing it between you and that potentially lethal puncture/energy transfer usually carry the characteristic: HEAVY.

The affordable steel plates that AR500 Armor is known for weigh 8lbs each. Combine that with necessary trauma padding or soft armor and a carrier you quickly push 25lbs in a hurry. The level IV selection of composite ceramics provide better protection but no savings in weight.

The stereotypical response to a complaint about armor is “It’s supposed to be comforting, not comfortable.” In short, the burden of armor is a necessary discomfort for the protection. A balancing act of mobility against the ability to stop an impacting gunshot. It ironically makes you a little slower and easier to hit, especially on an unconditioned body. Physical education and conditioning make armor bare-able.

However, thanks to science, we continue to develop and apply materials that do things better.

Armor types: Steel level III, Ceramic level IV, and UHMWPE level III
From back to front. Steel level III. Ceramic level IV, UHMWPE level III

Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) offers us several material advantages.

Polyethylene? Yes.

Plastic? Yes.

Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE, UHMW) is a subset of the thermoplastic polyethylene. Also known as high-modulus polyethylene, (HMPE), it has extremely long chains, with a molecular mass usually between 3.5 and 7.5 million amu.[1]

The longer chain serves to transfer load more effectively to the polymer backbone by strengthening intermolecular interactions. This results in a very tough material, with the highest impact strength of any thermoplastic presently made. –Wikipedia

UHMWPE is odorless, tasteless, and nontoxic.[3] It embodies all the characteristics of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) with the added traits of being resistant to concentrated acids and alkalies, as well as numerous organic solvents.[4] It is highly resistant to corrosive chemicals except oxidising acids; has extremely low moisture absorption and a very low coefficient of friction; is self-lubricating (see boundary lubrication); and is highly resistant to abrasion, in some forms being 15 times more resistant to abrasion than carbon steel. Its coefficient of friction is significantly lower than that of nylon and acetal and is comparable to that of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, Teflon), but UHMWPE has better abrasion resistance than PTFE.

UHMWPE is 8-15 times stronger than steel in strength to weight. It also has a very high chemical neutrality resisting water, oils, and solvents. It’s molecular strength is extremely high but actual density low, making it buoyant.

The polyethylene is made into long molecular aligned fibers and woven into a sheet. When layered with other sheets it allows for exceptional energy transfer reduction between the molecules and layers. The sheets are oriented in varying directions further increasing the overall property strengths of the UHMWPE as the aligned fibers crisscross.

The layers and dissonant orientation of the specialized polyethylene form an energy absorbing ‘catcher’s mitt’ plate that successfully stops rifle rounds. NIJ Level III rated stopping 7.62x51mm (.308), 7.62x39mm, and 5.56x45mm (.223 Rem) multiple hits stand alone (does not need to have a soft armor or carrier component to function). UHMWPE would be a worthy armor candidate on fewer property merits but when the material is formed into 10×12 armor plates they weigh less than half their conventional level III and level IV counterparts.

3.3lbs each and buoyant (won’t sink in water) cuts the overall weight of a kitted carrier down by around 50% while still maintaining level III protection.

armor weight and size comparison
3.3lbs vs. 8lbs

Physically the plates are higher volume but most carriers like my Valkyrie have enough room to accommodate them without issue.

armor thickness comparison

The thick light weight plates are also significantly less fragile than level IV ceramic.

Ceramic body armor plates are fragile, to a degree, being designed to catch a high velocity projectile from the front (or back) strike face. The layered ceramic is designed to crush and break, catching impacting rounds. Once it is broken the plate needs replacement. Ceramic is still a glass product and if dropped, sat on, or torqued in a way that cracks the layers they are now compromised.

The polyethylene (plastic) plates aren’t as vulnerable to unintentional damage from rough handling.

If considering any maritime application the buoyant water proof plates will not sink a water bound wearer or be compromised by immersion. The coast guard, any harbor or coastal deputies, and in any other emergency or duty armored application near water UHMWPE benefits the wearer if they end up in the water.

Putting UHMWPE Polyethylene plates into your armor set up increases comfort, durability, mobility,  and water safety (where relevant), while significantly decreasing physical duress and kit weight. Unless you’re requiring a level IV threat protection the PE plates have substantial advantages in a carrier.

It’s an armor material selection or upgrade worth serious consideration, currently my standard plates. They suck much less to wear, almost comfortable.

 

“No one sweats into their armor or has to go into the rain or water while wearing it and no one uses oils and solvents around firearms while wearing armor. It certainly isn’t heavy and doesn’t cause discomfort so I’m not sure why any of this is advantageous.” – Marine Veteran, after going for a swim with a rifle while in body armor now cleaning said rifle as the heavy SAPI’s and carrier chafe

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