Gregory Kielma • October 21, 2023
223 Remington/5.56 x 45mm NATO Cartridge
223 Remington/5.56 x 45mm NATO Cartridge
Hey Gregory,
Today's workbench is written by guest contributor and AGI Certified Gunsmith and GCA Moderator Robert Dunn:
There isn’t a day of my life that goes by that I don’t work with, reload, think or write about the .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO cartridges. Those cartridges are what a couple of my favorite and most used rifles are chambered for.
When I worked in an ammunition factory, I would sometimes get paid in .223 ammunition. When I was growing up in the early 1970s I became familiar with the .223 Remington cartridge, as it was the new round being used by our Armed Forces.
Warfighters throughout the world had realized the advantage of automatic firepower, but finding the perfect firearm and cartridge design is a huge challenge. In the case of the .223 Remington, many sources helped bring this cartridge into use by both civilians and the military.
Eugene Stoner of ArmaLite (then a division of Fairchild Industries) had gained the attention of the Military with his 7.62 x 51mm chambered AR-10 rifle. Like many high powered rifles, the AR-10 was hard to control during automatic fire.
Consequently, Fairchild Industries and Stoner were asked to scale down the AR-10 to fire a smaller caliber cartridge. Stoner came up with a prototype AR-15 and after a demonstration for the army, he was asked to produce more rifles for testing in 1957.
Select engineers and other companies like Remington Arms, Winchester as well as ArmaLite were asked to take part in developing this project. Springfield Armory’s Earle Harvey lengthened the .222 Remington case to the required specifications and it became the .224 Springfield, which was commercially known as the .222 Remington Magnum.
Frank Snow (of Sierra Bullets) and Eugene Stoner calculated the ballistics data for the .222 Remington to find the best bullet for the project, which ended up being a 55 grain bullet. Meanwhile, the Technical Editor for Gun and Ammo magazine, Robert Hutton, worked up a propellant recipe that could attain a velocity of 3,300 fps. Ultimately, Remington came up with the .222 Special cartridge, which was later renamed the .223 Remington because there were so many .222 designations.
Just a few of the military requirements for the firearm and cartridges were that they needed to be able to penetrate one side of a US Steel helmet at 500 yards, had to be able to exceed supersonic speed at 500 yards, had to be .22 caliber and select fire. From years of research and development of the AR-10 and AR-15, ArmaLite was facing financial difficulties and sold the rights for the rifles to Colt in 1959.
The AR-15 and the T44E4 rifle that would later be known as the M14 were being testing at the same time. To make a long story short, it was found that the AR-15 had far less failures per 1,000 rounds fired and that riflemen had a higher hit probability when firing Stoner’s rifle.
After Air Force General Curtis Le May test fired the AR-15, he ordered a batch of AR-15s to replace some of the M2 carbines that the Air Force was using. As the trials and testing continued, it was found that during marksmanship testing that many more men were achieving Expert shooting status with the AR-15 than they were with the M14. With these findings and the failure rate of the AR-15 going down even further, General Le May placed an order for 80,000 rifles in 1961.
In 1962, Remington filed the specs for the .223 Remington cartridge with SAAMI (Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturer’s Institute) and the cartridge was later marketed commercially as a chambering for the Remington 760 rifle in 1963.
At this point in time, the United States was embroiled in the conflicts arising in Southeast Asia. It was politically decided that contracts for rifle manufacturing could be bid on by the private sector and Colt was awarded the contract to provide AR-15 rifles to fill orders for the Vietnam War.
The AR-15 rifle and the .223 Remington cartridge were formally adopted in 1964 and designated the XM16E1 rifle, commonly referred to as the M16, and the 5.56 Ball M193 cartridge. It was decided that the South Vietnamese troops would be supplied with the M16 rifle. Eventually, the Air Force, the US Army, Special Forces, the Coast Guard, the US Navy, the Marines as well as the SEAL teams had orders in for M16 rifles and cartridges. In 1965, Colt received orders for 800,000 M16E1 rifle and over 28,000 M16 rifles.
The M16 and the 5.56 Ball ammo would go through some major growing pains as the rifles and cartridges were issued to troops in Vietnam. Besides not being trained on how to properly clean the gun, the rifle suffered from many types of jams and failures.
Broken extractors and extractor springs accounted for many ejection failures and through more research, it was found that the propellant being used in the cartridges was creating horrific fouling of the gas and bolt system. The ball powder that was being used also created a longer pressure spike, which caused the case to expand in the chamber but it would not contract enough to be extracted.
The extractor would simply tear through the case rim, leaving the stuck case in the chamber. By using a different propellant, chrome plating the barrels and replacing the buffer with a new design that slowed down the cyclic rate, along with some other design changes, the problems were gradually sorted out. Unfortunately many American lives were lost because of these errors.
The process of selecting a smaller cartridge for use by NATO forces began in 1960. The cartridge design was based on the .223 Remington cartridge and its development was placed in the hands of FN Herstal. The rimless bottlenecked cartridge was named the 5.56 x 54mm NATO cartridge.
In 1980, the 5.56 NATO cartridge became the standard NATO rifle cartridge (known as the SS109 for NATO and the M855 for the United States). The 5.56mm cartridges allowed the soldier to be able to carry more ammunition, which equated to more firepower and logistically many more rounds could be transported to hot spots around the world by weight than the larger 7.62 NATO cartridges. On a global scale this can equal a savings of millions of dollars.
The number of firearms that are chambered for the 5.56 NATO cartridge is too numerous to list here. Just think about all of the different squad automatic weapons, rifles, carbines and machine guns that each NATO country uses…that is a lot of different weapons!
The Frankford Arsenal, Remington and Winchester produced the first lots of .223 ammunition for the United States Armed Forces. During the trials and testing of the AR-15, 19 Million .223 cartridges were purchased. When a cartridge does well for the military, the Law Enforcement and civilian communities usually follows their lead. If you have ever read the 27 page document for the military specifications for the M855 cartridge (5.56 x 54mm), you can see that heavy scrutiny has already been applied to the 5.56mm round!
The .223 Remington cartridge has become one of the most used cartridges in the United States. It is a great varmint and predator cartridge and could be used for larger game if need be by loading a heavier bullet like a Hornady GMX or Barnes TSX 70-grain projectiles. These slower moving heavier bullets seem to do quite well in windy conditions. The above attributes make the 5.56mm round a flexible survival cartridge too.
You may have noticed or even been annoyed by the interchanging .223/5.56 terminology, here are of the important similarities and difference between the two cartridges. The case dimensions are exactly the same, though case thickness/propellant capacity can vary significantly between manufacturers which will have an effect on the resulting pressures.
The 5.56 x 45mm NATO or other military 5.56 ammo tends to be loaded hotter, so chamber pressures will be greater than the typical .223 Remington load. For this reason, .223 Remington rounds can be safely fired in a 5.56 chambered gun but 5.56mm ammo should not be fired in a .223 Rem chambered gun.
The reason for this really comes down to the differences in the chamber dimensions between .223 and 5.56 barrels. The throat/free bore and leade of a 5.56mm chamber is longer. The throat of the chamber is the unrifled section of the chamber just forward of the neck and gives the bullet a place to sit. Leade or lead is the section of the bore of a rifled barrel located just ahead of the throat of the chamber. It is a conical shaped transition from end of the throat to the fully rifled part of the barrel.
In an effort to gain more accuracy from the 5.56mm NATO cartridge, Bill Wylde created the .223 Wylde, which is a chamber design that utilizes the same external dimensions and lead angle of a 5.56 NATO cartridge and the freebore diameter of the .223 Remington cartridge. Another company that uses a proprietary chamber design to achieve better accuracy from the 5.56mm NATO cartridge is Noveske. A Noveske barrel is not cheap but they are known for their precision and high quality products.
SAAMI specs are followed by manufacturers in the U.S. loading .223 Remington ammo but those same manufacturers who also load 5.56 ammo do not follow SAAMI specs because the 5.56 rounds are loaded to military specifications and thus not held to SAAMI specs. In Europe, the international organization C.I.P. tests and sets the safety standards for firearms and ammunition. In countries that are regulated by the C.I.P., .223 Remington ammunition is proof tested at the same maximum service pressure as the 5.56 x 54mm NATO cartridges.
There have been a lot of challenges that had to be met throughout the history of the AR-15 and the 5.56 x 54mm cartridge. The twist rate of a barrel and the chamber dimensions greatly effect performance and accuracy. The shorter barreled M4 carbines and the requests for even shorter barrel lengths coming from the Special Forces communities have kept firearms and ammunition engineers busy. At this point in time, the AR-15 style rifles and the .223 Rem and 5.56 NATO cartridges offer a very reliable and accurate shooting platform.
The AR-15 rifle and .223/5.56 cartridge combination have gone through many changes together. They are still being used by our Military/Law Enforcement and civilian populations to good affect every day. This combo is a must for 3-gun competition. The .223 Remington cartridge is not overly expensive and there is always a wide variety of ammunition to choose from. There is a lot of surplus ammo to select from as well. Many other firearms are chambered in .223 Rem besides the AR-15 type guns.
The 5.56mm round is a good cartridge to reload for, as there is a huge variety of quality components to choose from as well. In 1964, the year I was born, these cartridges were the new warfighting cartridge and the US Armed Forces began using them. It’s easy for me to remember how many years these cartridges have been in use!
Become an American Gunsmith and continue to preserve our Firearm’s Heritage!
Robert Dunn,
Gunsmith & Community Moderator
American Gunsmithing Institute
Gunsmithing Club of America
Keeping Your Home Safe: Practical Steps That Make a Real Difference Gregg Kielma 12/30/2025 Gregg Kielma of Tactical K Training and Firearms advises and teaches during his CCW classes, a safe home doesn’t happen by accident. We need to think about smart habits, layered security, and a little preparation. Whether you live in a quiet neighborhood or a busy community, taking proactive steps can dramatically reduce risks and increase peace of mind. Kielma Suggests: Strengthening Your Entry Points • Doors & Locks: Use quality deadbolts, reinforced strike plates, and solid-core doors. • Windows: Install locks, security film, or sensors, especially on ground-level windows. • Garage & Sliding Doors: These are common weak spots. Reinforce them and keep them locked at all times. Kielma Suggests: Use Lighting to Your Adv antage • Exterior Lighting: Motion-activated lights deter intruders and improve visibility. • Interior Lighting: Timers or smart bulbs make your home look occupied even when you’re away. Kielma Suggests: Add Smart Technology • Cameras: Modern systems offer real-time alerts and cloud storage. • Alarms & Sensors: Door, window, and glass-break sensors add another layer of protection. • Smart Locks: Control access remotely and track who enters your home. Kielma Suggests: Practice Everyday Awareness • Keep doors locked—even when you’re home. • Don’t advertise vacations on social media. • Get to know your neighbors; community awareness is a powerful tool. Kielma’s Parting Shot: Responsible Firearm Ownership For those who choose to keep firearms for home defense, secure storage and proper training are essential. At Tactical K Training and Firearms, we emphasize safety, readiness, and responsible ownership so you can protect your home with confidence.
Gregg Kielma Kielma’s Thoughts on “What Makes a Good Firearm” Gregg Kielma 12/30/2025 A Tactical K Training and Firearms Perspective on Quality, Safety, and Performance Let's Take a LOOK. Your opinion? Am I right? Let's talk! At Tactical K Training and Firearms, I and we, my staff believe responsible firearm ownership begins with knowledge. Whether you’re a new shooter or an experienced enthusiast, understanding what makes a good firearm is essential for safety, confidence, and long-term performance. A quality firearm isn’t defined by brand names or trends—it’s defined by engineering, reliability, and how well it supports the shooter’s purpose. Kielma Suggests: Reliability The Foundation of Every Good Firearm A dependable firearm must function consistently under normal conditions. Reliability means: • Smooth cycling and consistent operation • Minimal malfunctions with quality ammunition • Performance that holds up over time and regular use In training and real-world application, reliability is non-negotiable. Kielma Suggests: Accuracy and Predictability A good firearm delivers repeatable results. Key factors include: • A well fitted, properly machined barrel • Quality sights or optic ready design • A clean, consistent trigger break Accuracy builds confidence—and confidence builds skill. Kielma Suggests: Ergonomics and Shooter Fit Every shooter is different. A firearm should complement the individual, not fight them. Good ergonomics include: • A grip that matches hand size and shooting style • Controls that are intuitive and easy to reach • Balanced weight and manageable recoil When a firearm fits properly, shooters learn faster and perform better. Kielma Suggests: Safety Focused Design At Tactical K Training, safety is always the priority. A quality firearm supports safe handling through: • Intuitive safety mechanisms • Clear visual/tactile indicators • Predictable, user-friendly controls Safety features should reinforce proper training—not replace it. Kielma Suggests: Build Quality and Materials Durability matters, especially for firearms used in training environments. Look for: • Corrosion resistant metals • Reinforced polymers • Precision machining and tight tolerances A well-built firearm withstands the elements, the range, and the test of time. Kielma Really Suggests This: Ease of Maintenance A firearm that’s simple to maintain is a firearm that stays reliable. Good platforms offer: • Straightforward field stripping • Readily available parts • No need for specialized tools for basic cleaning Maintenance is part of responsible ownership, and a good firearm makes that process accessible. Kielma Suggests: Manufacturer Reputation and Support A trustworthy manufacturer stands behind its products. Indicators include: • Consistent quality control • Strong customer service • Clear warranties • A proven track record Support matters—especially for new shooters building their foundation. Kielma’s Parting Shot: Purpose Driven Selection The “best” firearm is the one that fits the shooter’s needs and skill level. At Tactical K Training, we help students choose firearms that align with: • Their intended use (self-defense, sport, training, etc.) • Their experience level • Their physical comfort and confidence Training elevates every firearm’s potential, but the right platform makes the journey smoother. Gregg Kielma
A Look at Donald Trump, Firearm Rights, and the Second Amendment Gregg Kielma 12/30/2025 Millions of Americans believe the Second Amendment protects more than a right — it protects personal freedom. Supporters credit Donald Trump with standing firm for law abiding gun owners and defending responsible firearm ownership. At Tactical K Training and Firearms, we’re proud to promote safety, education, and the values that keep this tradition strong. The Second Amendment has long been a defining part of American identity, representing the principles of personal freedom, self-reliance, and responsible defense. Many supporters of the Second Amendment believe that Donald Trump has been a strong advocate for these values, often highlighting his administration’s stance on protecting the constitutional right to keep and bear arms. Let’s Take a LOOK Championing Constitutional Rights Supporters frequently point to Trump’s public statements and policy positions as evidence of his commitment to preserving the Second Amendment. They argue that his administration emphasized the importance of lawful firearm ownership and resisted efforts that they believed would weaken constitutional protections. A Focus on Law Abiding Citizens Many gun rights advocates appreciated Trump’s repeated distinction between responsible gun owners and those who misuse firearms. Supporters say this approach helped reinforce the idea that millions of Americans safely and responsibly exercise their rights every day — hunters, sports shooters, collectors, and individuals who choose firearms for personal protection. Encouraging a Culture of Responsibility Throughout his presidency, Trump often spoke about the importance of training, safety, and education. Supporters believe this helped promote a culture where firearm ownership is paired with accountability and preparedness — values that align closely with the mission of professional training organizations across the country. Standing Firm on the Second Amendment For many Americans, the Second Amendment is more than a legal right — it’s a symbol of personal liberty. Supporters credit Trump with defending that principle on the national stage, voicing strong opposition to policies they viewed as restrictive or unconstitutional. Kielma’s Parting Shot The debate over firearm rights is ongoing, but one thing remains clear: millions of Americans see the Second Amendment as essential to their safety, independence, and heritage. Supporters of Donald Trump believe he played a significant role in keeping that conversation alive and ensuring that the voices of lawful gun owners were heard. Gregg Kielma
Gregg Kielma A Pro 2A Counter Analysis of the GIFFORDS Gun Law Scorecard Gregg Kielma 12/30/2025 Gabby Gifford’s “gun law score card” a real time look at points and counterpoints that make sense. Have a comment, please let me know. Let’s Take a LOOK The GIFFORDS Gun Law Scorecard is often presented as an authoritative measure of firearm safety. But when you strip away the branding and look at the mechanics, it becomes clear that the scorecard is less a scientific evaluation and more a political grading sheet. From a Second Amendment perspective, the scorecard’s flaws are not subtle — they are foundational. 1. The Scorecard Starts With Its Conclusion and Works Backward The GIFFORDS scorecard doesn’t discover that restrictive states get higher grades — it defines it that way. If a state passes the policies GIFFORDS prefers, it gets an A. If it expands gun rights, it gets an F. The outcome is predetermined. This is not analysis. This is advocacy dressed up as data. A true safety assessment would measure outcomes first and policies second. Kielma Reflects: The scorecard does the opposite. 2. It Treats Correlation Like Proof — and Ignores Everything Else The scorecard leans heavily on the idea that “stronger gun laws equal lower gun death rates.” But this ignores the obvious: States differ dramatically in demographics, crime patterns, policing, economics, and culture. Violence is a complex social issue. The scorecard reduces it to a single variable: Did you pass the laws we like? Kielma Reflects: That’s not science. That’s confirmation bias. 3. It Completely Erases Defensive Gun Use One of the most glaring omissions is the total absence of lawful defensive gun use — a major component of the national firearms landscape. Millions of Americans use firearms each year to stop assaults, home invasions, robberies, and violent crimes. These incidents save lives. They prevent tragedies. They matter. The scorecard pretends they don’t exist. Kielma Reflects: A tool that claims to measure “gun safety” but ignores the safety benefits of lawful ownership is not a neutral tool. 4. It Punishes States for Expanding Constitutional Rights Under the GIFFORDS system, a state can reduce crime, improve training access, and strengthen enforcement — and still get downgraded simply for recognizing constitutional carry or streamlining permitting. In other words: If you respect the Second Amendment, you lose points. Kielma Reflects: That alone tells you what the scorecard is really measuring. 5. It Measures Laws on Paper, Not Safety in Practice A state can have dozens of restrictive laws but weak enforcement. Another state can have fewer laws but aggressively prosecute violent offenders. The scorecard doesn’t care. It rewards the existence of laws, not their effectiveness. Kielma Reflects: This is like grading a fire department based on how many hoses they own, not how well they put out fires. 6. High Grades Don’t Guarantee Low Crime — and Low Grades Don’t Guarantee High Crime If the scorecard’s theory were airtight, the map would be simple: A grade states would be the safest, and F grade states would be the most dangerous. Reality doesn’t follow that pattern. Kielma Reflects: Crime is driven by criminals, not by the legal status of a tool. The scorecard’s simplistic model cannot account for that. 7. It Ignores the Most Important Factor: Training and Culture Firearms instructors, safety professionals, and responsible gun owners know that safety is built through: • Education • Training • Community culture • Responsible handling • Enforcement of existing laws Kielma Reflects: The scorecard measures none of this. It treats legislation as the only variable that matters — a view that anyone with real world firearms experience knows is incomplete at best. Kielma’s Parting Shot: The GIFFORDS Gun Law Scorecard is not a neutral assessment of public safety. It is a political tool that: • Rewards states for aligning with a specific policy agenda • Ignores defensive gun use • Penalizes constitutional rights • Overlooks enforcement and real world behavior • Relies on correlation instead of causation • Excludes training, education, and culture A pro 2A perspective doesn’t reject safety — it demands real safety, grounded in evidence, experience, and respect for constitutional freedoms. Gregg Kielma
S enator Cory Booker A Critical Look at Senator Booker’s Federal Firearm Licensing Proposal Gregg Kielma 12/30/3035 Kielma says these are my thoughts: The federal government's proposed law for firearm licensing should be opposed. My thought process and why I think this way. Have a comment? Please let me know. LET’S TAKE A LOOK Senator Cory Booker’s push for a federal firearm licensing system has drawn intense criticism from gun rights advocates, constitutional scholars, and everyday Americans who view the proposal as an unnecessary and intrusive expansion of federal power. While the plan is framed as a public safety measure, many argue that it represents a sweeping federal overreach that would burden law abiding citizens while doing little to deter criminal activity. A Federal License: A Solution in Search of a Problem Critics argue that Senator Booker’s proposal treats responsible gun owners as if they are the source of America’s crime problem. The plan would require every firearm owner in the country to obtain a federal license — a process involving fingerprinting, mandatory interviews, background checks, and recurring renewals. Opponents contend that this approach flips the presumption of innocence on its head. Instead of targeting criminals, it places the heaviest burden on citizens who already follow the law, train regularly, and store their firearms responsibly. A Bureaucratic System That Punishes the Law Abiding One of the strongest criticisms is the sheer scale of bureaucracy the proposal would create. A federal licensing system would require a massive new administrative structure, likely resulting in delays, inconsistent enforcement, and significant taxpayer expense. Gun rights advocates warn that such a system could become a de facto barrier to exercising a constitutional right. If the government can delay, deny, or revoke a license based on subjective criteria, critics argue that the right to keep and bear arms becomes a privilege granted by the state — not a right protected from it. Criminals Don’t Apply for Licenses Opponents also point out a fundamental flaw: criminals, by definition, do not follow licensing laws. They do not submit fingerprints, sit for interviews, or register their firearms. Critics argue that the proposal focuses on the wrong population. Instead of addressing the root causes of violence — such as gang activity, illegal trafficking, and repeat offenders — the plan targets the people least likely to commit crimes: responsible gun owners who already comply with existing regulations. A Threat to Privacy and Personal Freedom Another major concern is the creation of a centralized federal database of gun owners. Critics warn that such a system could expose citizens to privacy risks, data breaches, or political misuse. Many Americans are uncomfortable with the idea of the federal government maintaining detailed records of who owns firearms, what they own, and where they live. Opponents argue that this level of surveillance is incompatible with a free society. A Step Toward National Registration and Beyond For many, the licensing proposal is seen as a gateway to more restrictive federal measures. Critics fear that once a national licensing system is established, future lawmakers could expand it into mandatory registration, limits on ownership, or even confiscation. While supporters of the proposal dismiss these concerns as exaggerated, opponents argue that history — both in the U.S. and abroad — shows that licensing often precedes more aggressive restrictions. Kielma’s Parting Shot: A Policy That Misses the Mark Senator Booker’s federal licensing proposal is presented as a bold step toward reducing gun violence. But critics argue that it misses the mark entirely. Instead of focusing on criminals and illegal activity, it places new burdens on responsible citizens, expands federal bureaucracy, and risks eroding constitutional protections. For those who believe in responsible firearm ownership, training, and education — values at the core of Tactical K Training — the proposal represents a misguided approach that punishes the wrong people while failing to address the real drivers of violence. Gregg Kielma
Ric Selitto : A Craftsman, Range Instructor, and Leader in Safety and Skill Gregg Kielma Owner: Tactical K Training and Firearms Contributing: Mark Jones Ric Selitto stands out as a rare blend of master builder, seasoned firearms RSO, and dedicated safety professional. With a career defined by precision, discipline, and a commitment to excellence, Ric has earned respect across two demanding fields: custom home construction and firearms range education. A Licensed Home Building Contractor with a Designer’s Eye As an active, state licensed Florida home building contractor, Ric brings craftsmanship and vision to every project he touches. He is an accomplished custom home builder and designer, known for blending structural integrity with aesthetic detail. His work reflects a deep understanding of materials, layout, and long-term durability — the kind of expertise that only comes from years of hands-on experience and a passion for doing things right the first time. Clients value Ric not only for his technical skill, but for his professionalism, communication, and ability to turn ideas into beautifully executed homes. A Dedicated Shooting Enthusiast and Firearms Expert Beyond the world of construction, Ric is equally accomplished in the firearms community. His knowledge spans a wide range of platforms and disciplines, making him a trusted resource for shooters of all experience levels. Ric’s Expertise Includes: • Expert AR 15 Instructor with advanced technical and practical knowledge. • USCCA Certified Range Safety Officer with more than 1,000 hours of RSO experience. • Expert in black powder pistols, understanding both historical and technical aspects. • Highly knowledgeable in semi-automatic pistols and wheel guns, offering instruction rooted in safety, mechanics, and real-world application. Ric’s depth of knowledge allows him to teach with clarity, confidence, and a strong emphasis on responsible firearm handling. A Commitment to Safety and Professional Standards Safety is at the core of Ric’s approach. His extensive RSO experience — over a thousand hours on the range — demonstrates his dedication to maintaining a secure, structured, and educational environment for every shooter. Ric’s Professional Affiliations: A Reinforcement of His Commitment To Firearms Safety: • NRA Member – 5 Years • USCCA Member – 3 Years • Real Estate Agent • Tactical K Training and Firearms RSO These memberships reflect his ongoing pursuit of training, education, and community involvement. K ielma’s Parting Shot: Ric Selitto, My friend is a Professional Who Leads by Example, Safety and Doing Things Right The First Time. Proud To Call Ric My Friend. Kielma continues, whether he’s designing a custom home or guiding a student through the fundamentals of firearm safety, Ric Selitto brings the same qualities to the table: integrity, precision, and a genuine desire to help others succeed everything Tactical K Training and Firearms stives for. His dual expertise makes him a standout professional — someone who builds both strong structures and strong shooters. Gregg Kielma/Mark Jones
The Positive Side of Shooting Sports Gregg Kielma Building Skill, Confidence, and Community — Never Harm At Tactical K Training and Firearms, we believe shooting sports represent one of the most disciplined, rewarding, and safety driven activities a person can pursue. While some misunderstand the purpose of the sport, those who participate know the truth: shooting sports are about precision, responsibility, and personal growth — not hurting people. A Discipline Focused Sport Shooting sports demand mental clarity, patience, and consistency. Every shot requires: • Controlled breathing • Steady movement • Focus under pressure • A commitment to continuous improvement These skills translate into everyday life, helping shooters become calmer, more confident, and more capable individuals. Safety Is the Core of Everything We Do Firearm safety isn’t just a rule — it’s a cul ture. Shooting sports have some of the strictest safety standards of any recreational activity. At Tactical K Training, we reinforce: • Muzzle awareness • Trigger discipline • Proper handling and storage • Respect for every firearm Because of this emphasis, shooting sports consistently rank among the safest organized sports in the country. A Community That Welcomes Everyone From youth competitors to seasoned adults, shooting sports bring people together. The environment is supportive, respectful, and built on mentorship. New shooters quickly discover a community that celebrates progress and encourages responsible participation. Precision, Not Violence The targets in shooting sports are paper, steel, or clay — never people. The goal is accuracy, consistency, and personal achievement. Shooting sports teach respect for firearms and reinforce the importance of using them responsibly. Skills That Last a Lifetime Participants develop: • Confidence • Hand eye coordination • Emotional control • Technical understanding • A deep respect for safety These skills benefit recreational shooters, competitors, and responsible firearm owners alike. Kielma finishes his Thoughts…My Sport, a Sport Worth Supporting Shooting sports deserve recognition for what they truly represent: discipline, responsibility, and community. At Tactical K Training, we’re proud to help people learn safely, grow confidently, and enjoy a sport built on respect — not harm. Gregg Kielma
USCCA Range Safety Officer Ric S. and Student Why You Should Consider Owning a Firearm Gregg Kielma Kielma writes, Let's take a LOOK at responsible firearm ownership and why owning a firearm make sense. My thoughts. As a Responsible, Empowering Choice for Personal Safety and Skill Development , firearm ownership is a personal decision — one that carries both responsibility and tremendous potential benefits. When approached with proper training and a commitment to safety, owning a firearm can strengthen your confidence, enhance your preparedness, and connect you with a community of responsible, like-minded individuals. Personal Protection and Peace of Mind, a firearm can serve as an effective tool for personal and home defense. While no one wants to face a dangerous situation, being prepared provides reassurance. Responsible firearm ownership gives many people the confidence that they can protect themselves and their families if the need ever arises. Training Builds Confidence, owning a firearm encourages discipline, education, and skill development. With professional instruction — the kind we provide at Tactical K Training — new and experienced shooters alike learn safe handling, situational awareness, and sound decision making. These skills build confidence that extends far beyond the range. A Skill Driven Rewarding Hobby, shooting sports are one of the fastest growing recreational activities in the country. Whether you enjoy target shooting, competition, or simply improving your accuracy, firearms offer a hobby that is both challenging and deeply satisfying. Many shooters find the focus and discipline of training to be relaxing and rewarding. Promoting Responsibility and Preparedness, firearm ownership reinforces the importance of responsibility. Safe storage, regular maintenance, and ongoing training cultivate habits that benefit every aspect of life. Preparedness isn’t about fear — it’s about being capable, informed, and ready for the unexpected. E xercising a Constitutional Right, for many Americans, firearm ownership is also about embracing a fundamental liberty. Exercising this right responsibly helps preserve it for future generations and supports the values of independence and self-reliance. Strengthening Community Through Education, responsible firearm owners often become advocates for safety and education. By promoting secure storage, encouraging proper training, and sharing knowledge, they help create safer communities and reduce preventable accidents. Education is the foundation of responsible ownership. Gregg Kielma’s Final Thoughts Owning a firearm is a meaningful choice one that can enhance your safety, build your confidence, and connect you with a community committed to responsibility and skill. With the right training and mindset, firearm ownership becomes not just a tool, but a path to empowerment Gregg Kielma
A Look at My Private Outdoor Range at Nuwer Ranch Gregg Kielma At Tactical K Training and Firearms, our outdoor private shooting range at Nuwer Ranch is built around one core principle: providing a safe, focused, and comfortable environment where every student can grow their skills with confidence. Nestled quietly in the Florida landscape, the range offers a private, controlled setting that supports everything from first time shooters to seasoned firearm owners looking to refine their technique. Currently a handgun range, some rifles are welcome with Gregg Kielma’s approval. Our new 200-yard and 50-yard pistol ranges, at the same current location, are set to open in early 2026, with sporting clays added later this year. To shoot at our range, you must complete either the CCW or safety class—no exceptions. Costs are relatively inexpensive, 15.00 per day and you must sign up on the website. Please do not just show up. Currently we can accommodate 15 shooters per secession and hours are 10 AM-4PM the third Saturday of the month. The schedule is on this the website. As we open the new range days and time will change with more availability. The current layout is intentionally simple and practical, it’s in a cow field, so if cows or manure offends you this isn’t the place currently for you. Our comfortable shooting tables, solid backstops, and a natural outdoor setting create a space where students can concentrate on fundamentals without distractions. Whether we’re working on basic marksmanship, firearm handling, or more advanced drills, the range is designed to support real world, applicable training. Safety is always at the center of operations with all instruction at Tactical K Training and Firearms, safety is the foundation of every session. The open-air environment allows for excellent visibility, natural space, and a calm atmosphere where students can learn at a comfortable pace. Every drill, every demonstration, and every round fired is guided by instructor's and team members with years of structured, disciplined, and responsible firearm practices. We offer a comfortable, personal experience unlike large public ranges, our outdoor space offers a relaxed, welcoming environment where students feel at ease asking questions and taking their time. The smaller setting allows for personalized instruction and a more meaningful learning experience — something many shooters appreciate, especially those new to firearms. Tactical K Training and Firearms core mission is building confidence, one skill at a time as my team's goal is simple: help every student leave with stronger skills, greater confidence, and a deeper understanding of safe firearm handling. The range is more than a place to shoot — it’s a place to learn, grow, and build the kind of competence that lasts. Gregg Kielma
Tactical K Training and Firearms A GunSkins Dealer and Professional Installer The Benefits of Gun Skins: Protection, Personalization, and Practicality Gregg Kielma In recent years, gun skins—vinyl wraps were designed to cover and protect a firearm’s exterior—have become increasingly popular among shooters of all backgrounds. While some view them as purely cosmetic, gun skins offer a range of practical benefits that go far beyond appearance. For many responsible gun owners, they’ve become a smart investment in both function and longevity. Tactical K Training and Firearms is a GunSkins Dealer and professional installer. Call me if you're interested in giving your firearm a new look! Below are my thoughts on GunSkins and the benefit of protecting your firearm and the versatility of changing the look when you desire. Kielma says, Let's Take a LOOK 1. Enhanced Protection for Your Firearm Firearms are tools, and tools see wear. Whether you’re training regularly, carrying daily, or storing a firearm in challenging environments, the finish can take a beating. Gun skins help by: • Shielding the firearm’s exterior from scratches, scuffs, and minor abrasions • Adding a layer of protection against moisture and corrosion • Preserving the original finish, which helps maintain long-term value For shooters who train hard or carry often, this protective layer can make a noticeable difference over time. 2. Customization Without Permanent Modification One of the biggest advantages of gun skins is the ability to personalize a firearm without committing to a permanent change. Unlike Cerakote or engraving, skins can be: • Applied quickly • Removed cleanly • Swapped out for new designs as preferences change This makes them ideal for shooters who want a unique look without altering the firearm’s factory finish. 3. Improved Grip and Handling Many gun skins add a subtle texture that enhances grip without being overly aggressive. This can be especially helpful in: • Wet or humid environments • High-stress training scenarios • Situations where gloves are worn Better grip means better control, and better control means safer, more consistent shooting. 4. Camouflage and Field Utility For hunters and outdoorsmen, gun skins offer practical concealment benefits. A well-chosen pattern can: • Break up the outline of the firearm • Reduce glare • Blend the firearm into specific environments (woodland, desert, marsh, etc.) This is particularly valuable for hunters who want every advantage in the field. 5. Cost-Effective Aesthetic Upgrades Compared to refinishing or custom coatings, gun skins are an affordable way to refresh the look of a firearm. They allow owners to: • Modernize older firearms • Match gear or loadouts • Create themed builds without high costs It’s a simple upgrade that delivers a big visual impact. 6. Easy Maintenance and Reversibility Gun skins are designed to be durable but removable. If a skin becomes worn or damaged, it can be replaced without affecting the firearm underneath. This makes maintenance straightforward and stress-free. Is GunSkins Right for YOU? Kielma's Final Thoughts Gun skins offer a blend of protection, personalization, and practicality that appeals to both new shooters and seasoned professionals. Whether you’re looking to preserve your firearm, enhance its performance, or simply give it a fresh look, gun skins provide a flexible and cost-effective solution.
