Gregory Kielma • August 6, 2024
Billionaires Laura and John Arnold – through Arnold Ventures, a Houston-based for-profit corporation are Anti Gun and funding Flawed Research
Laura and John Arnold
Billionaire Backing Biased Anti-Gun Research
“In this world, you get what you pay for,” said Kurt Vonnegut in Cat’s Cradle, his fourth novel. And when billionaire philanthropists are involved, Mr. Vonnegut is more than right. Nowadays, billionaires get exactly what they pay for.
An investigation by the Second Amendment Foundation’s Investigative Journalism Project reveals how a former Enron trader and his wife are quietly paying millions of dollars every year to colleges, universities, think tanks and other groups for biased anti-gun research, which is then cited as gospel by the corporate media and used as propaganda by anyone who wants to infringe upon law-abiding Americans’ Second Amendment rights.
Billionaires Laura and John Arnold – through Arnold Ventures, a Houston-based for-profit corporation the couple founded to “proactively achieve social change” and their nonprofit, the Laura and John Arnold Foundation – are quietly bankrolling research that promotes and supports their radical anti-gun views. Their Foundation has more than $3.5 billion in assets.
Despite their predilection to work in secret, the couple’s actions have not gone unnoticed.
“Arnold Ventures is the gun control backer most Americans have never heard of. They quietly work behind the scenes, unlike Michael Bloomberg. However, their influence on trying to shape gun control policy rivals that of the biggest backers of antigun efforts. They regularly donate money to think tanks and academia to propel biased research into the policy arena. Arnold Venture’s philanthropic outreach sounds well-intentioned, but they’re serving up snake oil when they peddle firearms as a disease,” Mark Oliva, public affairs director for the National Shooting Sports Foundation, said last week.
The Arnolds’ massive financial clout creates an unholy alliance between grantor and grantee. Their paid researchers publish findings that support the couple’s views, or they risk the cash spigot being turned off and the loss of millions of dollars to their organization.
When it comes to their donations, it is clear who determines where the money goes.
“Laura and John established the Laura and John Arnold Foundation in 2010. They believe philanthropy should be transformational and should seek through innovation to solve persistent problems in society. As co-founders, Laura and John actively engage in the organization’s overall direction and daily execution,” the group’s website states.
John Arnold started as a trader for Enron, according to Influence Watch. He quit before the company imploded and was never accused of wrongdoing. In addition to gun control, the couple supports health care reform, criminal justice reform, prison reform and several nonprofit media groups.
The RAND Corporation is a major recipient of the Arnolds’ funding. RAND now maintains a gun-policy page. Much of their research is sponsored by the Arnolds.
According to the Laura and John Arnold Foundation’s 2022 IRS form 990, the couple paid RAND at total of $2.8 million, of which $1.7 million was for anti-gun research, including:
• $1,261,269 “to conduct research on how to reduce gun violence.”
• $99,000 “to support the first national conference on gun violence prevention research.”
• $89,000 “to support a convening relating to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in the Bruen case.”
• $283,546 “to provide objective information about firearm violence and how state laws reduce or exacerbate this violence.”
That same year, the couple paid more than $1.8 million for anti-gun research from other groups, including:
• $28,040 to the National Opinion Research Center “to support the NORC expert panel on reducing gun violence and improving data infrastructure.”
• $219,122 to the University of California at Berkeley “to evaluate the advance peace gun violence reduction program.”
• $1,065,933 to Princeton University “to develop a research infrastructure that helps cities better understand and respond to waves of gun violence.”
• $475,093 to the University of Maryland “to support the center for study and practice of violence reduction.”
In total, the Foundation donated more than $185 million, according to their 2022 IRS Form 990.
Arnold Ventures public relations director, Angela Landers, declined to be interviewed for this story, arrange an interview with the Arnolds or discuss the gun-control research they funded. Instead, Landers chose to send a written statement, which is unedited and reprinted in its entirety:
“Philanthropy can play a unique role in supporting research regarding the impact of many public policies, including those related to gun violence. In this instance, Arnold Ventures partnered with RAND Corp., a nonpartisan and widely respected research institution, to conduct scientific research that offers the public and policymakers a factual basis for developing fair and effective gun policies in the interest of public safety. Sound research is an important part of building evidence-based solutions,” Landers said in her statement.
RAND’s Response
While there were infrequent gun-related projects over the years, the RAND Corporation as a whole did not research “gun violence” until 2016, when there was a mass-shooting near their California office, according to Andrew R. Morral, PhD, a senior behavioral scientist at RAND and the Greenwald Family Chair in Gun Policy.
“A lot of our staff were rattled by it, as were RAND trustees and friends of RAND,” Morral told the Second Amendment Foundation last week. “They contacted our president and asked what we were going to do about it.”
RAND set aside some internal funds because the work was not yet sponsored and investigated, Morral explained. In 2018, they released their first tranche of research.
“Arnold Ventures picked it up and has funded us since then,” he said.
Today, Arnold Ventures is RAND’s largest sponsor of gun-control research. Together with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the two groups pay RAND more than $1.5 million annually, Morral said. Federal grants from the National Institute of Health and the National Institute of Justice provide additional “gun-violence” research funding.
None of RAND’s estimated 1,900 employees are researching gun-control full time, Morral said. Although he estimated between six to eight staffers are studying gun-control topics “as part of their research portfolios.”
Morral denied that Arnold Ventures or any other donor interfered with their research.
“We are very careful to not allow that to happen,” he said. “We haven’t experienced any pressure and we have not been asked to share our findings with Arnold Ventures or any other sponsor. We aren’t held accountable for producing results in a certain direction. Our donors, generally, are interested in us being neutral and objective, which is part of the reason they came to RAND.”
Still, Morral acknowledged that their sponsors can use their research however they see fit.
“We realize it’s used for advocacy, of course. We’re producing scientific results. We can’t control how they’re used. People will use that in a variety of ways. Our results are used by both advocates for more restrictive gun laws as well as advocates for less restrictive gun laws.”
Morral said RAND takes no position on the right to keep and bear arms. “We don’t have policy positions on that or on gun laws or anything else,” he said. “We don’t advocate. We don’t do any advocacy.”
However, it is RAND’s opinion and Morral’s that “gun-violence” constitutes a public health crisis.
“I certainly think there’s a crisis in terms of the number of people dying and being injured each year,” he said. “The numbers are high enough to call that a crisis.”
RAND, Morral said, stands by the validity of their gun-violence research, “subject to the limitations reported in our reports. All research has limitations, and we try to be upfront about that,” he said.
RAND’s position on two frequent gun-control targets is clear, concise and published on its website.
• Concealed-carry laws increase homicides rates: “Evidence shows that concealed carry laws – when states implement more permissive concealed carry laws, there’s a small increase in homicide rates. Our own research has found evidence of that – some suggestive evidence,” Morral said.
• Stand-your-ground laws increase homicide rates: “The current evidence is that when states implement stand-your-ground laws, firearm homicide rates increase,” he said.
RAND researchers published a report last Wednesday, which was funded by Arnold Ventures and a National Institute of Health grant, titled “State Policies Regulating Firearms and Changes in Firearm Mortality.”
Morral was one of the scientists involved in the project.
The objective was to estimate the effects state firearm policies have on gun-related deaths. The researchers examined six policies: “background checks, minimum age, waiting periods, child access, concealed carry, and stand-your-ground laws.”
The findings were mixed. Child-access prevention laws can reduce gun deaths by 6%, and stand-your-ground laws can increase firearm deaths by 6%, the authors claimed.
“Our finding that most of these individual state-level firearm policies have relatively modest and uncertain effect sizes reflects that each firearm policy is a small component of a complex system shaping firearm violence. However, we found that combinations of the studied policies were reliably associated with substantial shifts in firearm mortality,” the authors noted.
All of the authors – Terry L. Schell, PhD; Rosanna Smart, PhD; Matthew Cefalu, PhD; Beth Ann Griffin, PhD and Morral – work for RAND at either its Santa Monica, California, or Arlington, Virginia, offices.
All of the authors except Morral disclosed conflicts of interest: “Dr Schell reported receiving grants from Arnold Ventures and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism during the conduct of the study. Dr Smart reported receiving grants from Arnold Ventures and the National Institutes of Health during the conduct of the study. Dr Cefalu reported receiving grants from Arnold Ventures during the conduct of the study. Dr Griffin reported receiving grants from Arnold Ventures during the conduct of the study. No other disclosures were reported.”
The authors claimed that neither Arnold Ventures not the NIH exercised any control of their work.
“The funders had no role in the design and conduct of the study; collection, management, analysis, and interpretation of the data; preparation, review, or approval of the manuscript; and decision to submit the manuscript for publication,” the report states.
RAND’s NIH Grant of $790,100 was awarded Sept. 25, 2020, and is ongoing.
“Don’t Get Mad About Guns …”
Three months ago, the Trace – the propaganda arm of former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s anti-gun empire – announced they were creating a Gun Violence Data Hub, which would “help journalists access data on one of America’s most critical – and opaque – public health crises.”
“The Data Hub is a multiyear project to increase the accessibility and use of accurate data on gun violence in journalism. Its team of editors, reporters and researchers will proactively collect and clean datasets for public distribution, write and share tip sheets, and serve as a resource desk to other newsrooms, assisting journalists in their pursuit of data-informed reporting,” the Trace reported.
Arnold Ventures was one of the Data Hub’s top sponsors.
To be clear, Arnold Ventures has radical anti-gun views. The group believes “firearm violence” constitutes a public health crisis. “Gun violence,” it claims, has become the leading cause of death of “young people,” not children, the group states on its website. By referring to young people rather than children, they can include 18- to 20-year-olds in their data set to make the numbers work.
Arnold Ventures wants to bridge the gap in anti-gun research, which they say was created by the 1996 Dickey Amendment, which prohibits the federal government from conducting anti-gun research.
Don’t Get Mad About Guns — Get Funding for Research, the group offers on its website.
“It isn’t enough to get mad about gun violence,” Asheley Van Ness, Arnold Ventures former director of criminal justice, wrote in The Houston Chronicle.“Change starts with adequate funding for research, or else policymakers may end up spending time and money on programs that simply don’t work.”
In 2018, to streamline its funding efforts, Arnold Ventures launched the National Collaborative on Gun Violence Research (NCGVR). Its mission is to “fund and disseminate nonpartisan, scientific research that offers the public and policymakers a factual basis for developing fair and effective gun policies.”
“At Arnold Ventures, we use our resources to confront some of the most pressing problems facing our nation,” Arnold Ventures President and CEO Kelli Rhee stated on the group’s website. “Five years ago, we, like many others, recognized that our understanding of gun violence was suffering from a severe lack of investment in research, and we joined together with our partners to try and fill some of the gap. While more investment from both public and private entities is undoubtedly needed, the National Collaborative on Gun Violence Research has made significant progress in building the gun policy evidence base.”
Since 2022, the NCGVR has issued more than 50 grants, including “13 dissertation research projects and seven post-doctoral research fellowships, as well as awards for large new studies on domestic gun violence, officer-involved shootings, harms to firearm owners associated with gun laws, gun suicides, gun policy analysis and urban gun violence.”
Arnold Ventures chose RAND to administer the NCGVR, and RAND put Morral in charge. Today, Morral co-leads the NCGVR, which he says brings RAND “a couple hundred-thousand dollars per year.”
“It was an opportunity to improve research in the field,” Morral told the Second Amendment Foundation. “It was something that seemed like an interesting project to work to elevate. There wasn’t much research going on, and it was an area we were trying to make some headway in with our own funding. We recognized there was a gap in knowledge about gun policy that wasn’t being studied.”
Takeaways
There is certainly nothing unlawful about a well-heeled couple sponsoring gun-control research or research of any kind. The Arnolds are free to spend their millions as they see fit. However, since their largesse can negatively impact the civil rights of millions of law-abiding Americans, the Arnolds should be prepared to answer for their philanthropy.
The couple has created a pipeline of sorts, cash goes in one end and anti-gun propaganda comes out the other.
The risks they’ve created are dire.
“When a cable TV news actor cites some farcical statistic about guns or gun owners, it’s important to understand how that number made it onto the teleprompter,” said Second Amendment Foundation founder and Executive Vice President Alan M. Gottlieb. “It starts with donor dollars sent to researchers at left-leaning colleges, universities or other groups, who publish reports that mirror their donors’ views, which are then regurgitated by the corporate media. It’s a factory-like process. We don’t have anything like that. We don’t need it. We simply rely upon the truth.”
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Gregg Kielma: A Dedicated Leader in Firearms Training and Personal Protection By Steve Smith 12/20/25 Gregg Kielma has built a respected reputation in the world of firearms education, personal protection, and responsible gun ownership. As the owner of Tactical K Training and Firearms, Kielma brings more than three decades of experience in concealed carry, shooting sports, and self-defense instruction to students across the United States. Kielma is a USCCA certified instructor with credentials spanning decades in concealed carry and home defense, countering the mass shooter threat, children’s firearms safety, women’s firearm self-defense, range safety operations, real estate agent safety, first aid fundamentals instructor to include CPR/Defibrillator, range safety officer/trainer, electronic control device instructor, prepping for survival, security consultant home and business, FAA drone pilot and is an outdoor range operator. His broad certification portfolio reflects a commitment to empowering individuals and families with practical, lifesaving skills. Beyond instruction, Kielma is also an FFL dealer, a professional engineer /project manager, and an experienced gunsmith, adding technical depth to his training programs. His background includes expert marksmanship and drone piloting, further demonstrating the diverse skill set he brings to the firearms community. Students and clients consistently note his professionalism, patience, and ability to translate complex safety principles into clear, actionable guidance. Whether working with first time gun owners or seasoned shooters, Gregg Kielma’s mission remains the same: to promote safe, confident, and responsible firearm handling.
Purchasing a Firearm: A Responsible Buyer’s Guide By Gregg Kielma FFL- Firearms Instructor- Gunsmith- First Aid Fundamentals Instructor Buying a firearm is a significant decision—one that carries legal, ethical, and safety responsibilities. Whether someone is purchasing their first firearm or adding to an existing collection, approaching the process with preparation and awareness ensures a safer and more confident experience. Understand Your Purpose Before stepping into a gun shop, it helps to be clear about why you want a firearm. Common reasons include: • Home or personal protection • Hunting or sport shooting • Collecting historical or specialty firearms Your purpose will influence the type, size, caliber, and features that make sense for you. Know the Law Firearm laws vary by state and sometimes even by county or municipality. Buyers should familiarize themselves with: • Eligibility requirements • Background check procedures • Waiting periods (if applicable) • Storage and transportation laws • Any required permits or training Understanding the legal landscape ensures compliance and prevents accidental violations. Choose a Reputable Dealer Purchasing from a licensed firearms dealer provides several advantages: • Assurance that the firearm is legally transferred • Access to knowledgeable staff • Proper documentation and background checks • Opportunities to handle different models before buying A good dealer will answer questions without pressure and help match the buyer with the right firearm. Handle and Evaluate Firearms When examining a firearm in person, pay attention to: • Ergonomics and comfort • Weight and balance • Sight picture • Trigger feel • Overall build quality A firearm should feel natural and controllable. If it doesn’t, it’s not the right fit. Prioritize Training and Safety Owning a firearm is only part of the equation. Responsible ownership includes: • Taking certified safety courses • Practicing regularly at a range • Learning safe storage methods • Understanding how to maintain the firearm Training builds confidence and reduces the risk of accidents. Secure Storage Safe storage protects both the owner and others in the household. Options include: • Lockable gun safes • Quick access lockboxes • Cable or trigger locks The goal is to prevent unauthorized access while still allowing the owner to access the firearm responsibly. Gregg Kielma FFL- Firearms Instructor- Gunsmith- First Aid Fundamentals Instructor
ATF Building Washington DC The ATF: A Quiet Force Protecting Communities, My Thoughts By Gregg Kielma When most people think about public safety, they picture local police departments or federal agencies with high-profile missions. Yet one agency works steadily behind the scenes, tackling some of the most complex threats to American communities: the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Though often operating without fanfare, the ATF plays a vital role in safeguarding the public, supporting law enforcement partners, and ensuring that legal industries operate responsibly. A Mission Rooted in Public Safety The ATF’s core mission is straightforward but essential: protect the public from violent crime. Its responsibilities span several areas that directly impact everyday life: • Combating firearms trafficking and violent crime • Investigating arson and explosives incidents • Regulating the firearms and explosives industries • Ensuring compliance in alcohol and tobacco markets These are not abstract tasks. They’re the kinds of challenges that, if left unchecked, can destabilize communities and endanger lives. The ATF’s work helps prevent that. Expertise That Makes a Difference One of the ATF’s greatest strengths is its deep technical expertise. ATF agents and specialists are among the nation’s foremost experts in: • Firearms tracing and ballistics • Explosives analysis • Fire scene reconstruction • Criminal networks and trafficking patterns Their National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) is a prime example. It allows law enforcement agencies across the country to link shell casings from different crime scenes, helping investigators identify patterns and stop violent offenders more quickly. Partnerships That Strengthen Communities The ATF doesn’t work alone. It collaborates with thousands of local police departments, federal agencies, and international partners. These relationships amplify the impact of every investigation. Whether it’s helping a small-town police department solve an arson case or supporting a major city’s efforts to dismantle a firearms trafficking ring, the ATF brings resources and expertise that many agencies simply don’t have on their own. Supporting Lawful Industry Beyond enforcement, the ATF plays a crucial regulatory role. It works closely with firearms dealers, explosives companies, and alcohol and tobacco businesses to ensure compliance with federal law. Most of these businesses want to operate responsibly, and the ATF provides guidance, inspections, and education to help them do exactly that. This partnership-based approach strengthens legitimate commerce while preventing dangerous materials from falling into the wrong hands. A Commitment to Professionalism ATF personnel—agents, chemists, auditors, investigators, and support staff—are known for their professionalism and dedication. Their work often requires patience, precision, and a willingness to take on difficult, sometimes dangerous assignments. Yet they continue to serve with integrity, motivated by a simple goal: make communities safer. A Vital, Often Unsung Agency The ATF may not always be in the spotlight, but its contributions are felt nationwide. From solving violent crimes to preventing illegal trafficking, from supporting local law enforcement to ensuring responsible industry practices, the ATF is a critical part of America’s public safety infrastructure. In a world where threats evolve quickly, the ATF’s expertise, adaptability, and commitment to service make it an indispensable force for good.
Jefferson Parish Man Sentenced for Machine Gun Possession Friday, December 19, 2025 U.S. Attorney's Office, Eastern District of Louisiana NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that, JAHBRELL PRICE (“PRICE”), age 25, of Marrero, Louisiana was sentenced on December 4, 2025 by U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown, after previously pleading guilty to the two-count indictment pending against him. Count 1 charged PRICE with possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(3). Count 2 charged PRICE with possession of a machine gun, in violation of Title 18 United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2). PRICE was sentenced to a total term of 33 months’ imprisonment, consisting of 12 months as to Count One and 33 months as to Count Two, with the terms to be served concurrently. PRICE was further sentenced to three (3) years of supervised release, consisting of one (1) year as to Count One and three (3) years as to Count Two, to be served concurrently as well as a $125 mandatory special assessment fee. According to documents, on January 7, 2024, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives located PRICE at a motel at 6751 Westbank Expressway, in Marrero, where he was arrested on an outstanding Orleans Parish warrant. Detectives secured a search warrant for PRICE’s hotel room and located twenty (20) bottles of promethazine (9,460 ml), $1,375.00 in United States currency, and a Glock model 45 nine-millimeter handgun with an external and visible machine gun conversion device attached to the rear of the slide. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit. Contact Brittany Maique Executive Assistant U.S. Attorney's Office Eastern District of Louisiana Updated December 19, 2025
PENSACOLA MAN SENTENCED TO FOUR YEARS IN FEDERAL PRISON FOR UNREGISTERED MACHINEGUN CONVERSION DEVICE Wednesday, December 17, 2025 U.S. Attorney's Office, Northern District of Florida PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Prashant M. Jenkins Jr., 24, of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced to four years in federal prison after having previously pled guilty to possession of an unregistered machinegun conversion device. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our outstanding state and federal law enforcement partners are on the front lines keeping our communities safe from violent criminals, like this defendant, and my office stands ready to back up their hard work with successful prosecutions to send those offenders to federal prison.” Court documents reflect that on October 30, 2024, law enforcement officers found and seized from Jenkins’ residence an AR-style machinegun conversion device, a Glock pistol with a loaded magazine, a loaded AR-15 magazine, approximately 500 grams of marijuana, and other suspected drug trafficking paraphernalia. The conversion device, which itself is considered a machinegun under federal law, was not marked with a serial number and was not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record as required. The sentence was the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes. This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html. Contact United States Attorney’s Office Northern District of Florida USAFLN.Press.Office@usdoj.gov X: @USAO_NDFL Updated December 17, 2025
Gregg Kielma What Makes a Good Firearms Instructor: Skill, Safety, and the Art of Teaching By Gregg Kielma USCCA 5 Star Instructor Clients often inquire about my qualifications, experience with firearms, distinguishing factors as an instructor, and the reasons they should place their trust in my instruction. Below, I offer my perspective on these points for your consideration. Continues Kielma, “as a firearm instructor I carry a responsibility that goes far beyond teaching people how to shoot. I shape attitudes, build safe habits, and influence how students think about firearms for the rest of their lives. An instructor isn’t just knowledgeable — they’re a mentor, a communicator, and a guardian of safety”. 1. Safety Is My Unshakable Foundation Every reputable instructor treats safety as the core of their identity. They don’t just recite the rules — they model them in every movement. A good instructor: • Always demonstrates muzzle awareness • Enforces safe handling without compromise • Creates a controlled, calm learning environment • Explains why safety rules matter, not just what they are Students should feel confident, not intimidated, because they know the instructor is in full command of the range and the lesson. 2. Deep, Practical Knowledge — Not Just Book Learning A strong instructor understands firearms from the inside out. They know: • How different platforms operate • The mechanics behind malfunctions • Ammunition basics • Fundamentals of marksmanship • Real world application, not just theory But knowledge alone isn’t enough. The best instructors can translate complex concepts into simple, digestible steps that anyone can follow. 3. Clear, Patient Communication Teaching firearms is as much about people as it is about guns. A good instructor knows how to read a student’s body language, adjust their approach, and explain things in multiple ways. They: • Stay patient, even when a student struggles • Give corrections respectfully, never harshly • Break skills into manageable steps • Encourage questions and curiosity A great instructor makes students feel capable, not judged. 4. Strong Range Awareness On a live range, awareness is everything. A good instructor constantly monitors: • Muzzle direction • Trigger discipline • Student stress levels • Environmental factors • Range conditions They anticipate problems before they happen and intervene early, calmly, and decisively. 5 . Adaptability to Different Students No two shooters are the same. A good instructor adjusts their teaching style for: • New shooters • Experienced shooters with bad habits • Nervous students • Physically limited students • Left handed shooters • Law enforcement or defensive minded students They don’t force a one size fits all method. They tailor the lesson to the person in front of them. 6. Professionalism and Integrity A good instructor: • Shows up prepared • Maintains their equipment • Keeps their certifications current • Respects students’ time and goals • Avoids ego, bravado, or unsafe “showing off” They understand that professionalism builds trust — and trust is essential when firearms are involved. 7. Commitment to Continuous Improvement Firearms training is evolving. Techniques change. Gear changes. Laws change. A good instructor never stops learning. They: • Attend advanced courses • Study new training methods • Seek feedback • Stay humble enough to grow The best instructors are lifelong students themselves. 8. A Focus on Building Confidence, Not Fear A good instructor helps students feel: • Safe • Capable • In control • Empowered They don’t use intimidation or condescension. They build up shooters, one skill at a time. Conclusion A good firearms instructor is far more than a skilled shooter. They are a communicator, a safety expert, a mentor, and a steady presence on the range. My influence shapes not only how students shoot, but how they think about responsibility, discipline, and respect for firearms. Gregg Kielma USCCA 5 Star Instructor
How to Mount a Scope on a Rifle: A Practical Guide for Accuracy and Confidence By Gregg Kielma Says Gregg Kielma, Gunsmith and firearms Instructor, “I get asked this question all the time. Here is the 8-step process I use when mounting a scope on my rifle or a client’s rifle”. Note: The proper tools are needed to successfully mount the scope properly. Let’s Take a LOOK Mounting a scope is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to a rifle. A properly installed optic improves precision, extends effective range, and gives you a clearer sight picture. But a poorly mounted scope can cause frustration, wandering zero, or even damage to the optic. The good news is that with patience and the right approach, anyone can mount a scope correctly. This guide walks you through the process step by step, emphasizing safety, alignment, and long-term reliability. 1. Start With Safety and Preparation Before doing anything, ensure the rifle is unloaded, the chamber is clear, and ammunition is stored away from your workspace. Treat the rifle as if it’s loaded at all times. Set up a clean, well-lit bench with: • Your rifle • Scope rings or a one-piece mount • The scope • A torque wrench (recommended) • A bubble level or leveling tool • A soft cloth to protect surfaces A stable rest or gun vise makes the job easier, but it’s not mandatory. 2. Choose the Right Rings or Mount Your mounting hardware must match: • Tube diameter of the scope (commonly 1 inch or 30mm) • Objective size, which determines ring height • Rifle’s mounting system (Picatinny, Weaver, dovetail, proprietary bases) Quality rings matter. Cheap hardware often leads to slipping, misalignment, or inconsistent zero. 3. Install the Base or Rail If your rifle doesn’t already have a rail: • Clean the mounting surfaces • Apply a small amount of thread locker (non-permanent) to screws • Tighten screws evenly using manufacturer torque specs A secure base is the foundation of a reliable optic setup. 4. Attach the Lower Half of the Rings Place the lower halves of the rings on the rail and lightly tighten them so they can still slide. Position them far enough apart to support the scope tube without interfering with the turrets. 5. Set the Scope and Establish Eye Relief Place the scope gently into the lower rings and shoulder the rifle in your natural shooting position. Move the scope forward or backward until the sight picture is full and clear without any shadowing. Eye relief is critical: • Too close → risk of “scope bite” under recoil • Too far → reduced field of view Once you find the sweet spot, return the rifle to the bench without disturbing the scope. 6. Level the Reticle A canted reticle causes shots to drift left or right at longer distances. To avoid this: • Level the rifle using a bubble level • Level the scope by placing a second level on the turret cap or using a reticle leveling tool • Adjust until the vertical and horizontal lines are perfectly aligned Take your time here — this step affects long range accuracy more than people realize. 7. Install the Upper Ring Halves and Tighten Evenly Place the top halves of the rings over the scope and tighten the screws gradually in an X pattern. This ensures even pressure and prevents the scope from twisting. Use a torque wrench if possible. Over tightening can dent the scope tube; under tightening can cause it to shift under recoil. 8. Final Checks Before calling it done: • Re check eye relief • Confirm the reticle is still level • Ensure the scope doesn’t move when gently pushed • Cycle the bolt to ensure clearance • Verify that the objective bell doesn’t contact the barrel Everything should feel solid and aligned.
The Wilson Combat P320 9mm: A Custom Grade Evolution of SIG’s Modular Workhorse Gregg Kielma Gregg Kielma, FFL, Gunsmith, Firearms Instructor say’s; Blow out deal on one of my favorite firearms, the Wilson Combat P320 9mm We have one let. Custom holster, 4-10 rd magazines…Our price 950.00 A really fine firearm…Call or email me today! L et’s Take a LOOK! The Wilson Combat P320 9mm — often referred to as the WCP320 — represents one of the most refined interpretations of SIG Sauer’s wildly successful P320 platform. By blending SIG’s modular fire control unit with Wilson Combat’s craftsmanship, the WCP320 transforms a duty ready striker fired pistol into a premium, performance tuned sidearm built for shooters who demand more than factory standard capability. A Collaboration Rooted in Performance Wilson Combat and SIG Sauer partnered to create a pistol that elevates the P320’s strengths while addressing the needs of competitive shooters, tactical professionals, and discerning enthusiasts. The result is a firearm that retains the P320’s modularity but incorporates Wilson Combat’s signature enhancements, including: • A Wilson Combat designed grip module with improved ergonomics and traction • A re machined slide featuring X TAC serrations for superior manipulation • A durable black DLC finish for corrosion resistance and longevity • Wilson Combat’s performance battle sights, optimized for fast acquisition These upgrades collectively create a pistol that feels more planted in the hand, tracks flatter under recoil, and offers a more intuitive shooting experience. Engineering the Ideal Striker Fired Pistol Wilson Combat’s gunsmiths take a SIG manufactured P320 chassis and unfinished slide, then rework them into a refined, high performance package tailored for precision shooting. The result is a pistol that maintains the P320’s reliability while offering a noticeably enhanced trigger feel, improved accuracy, and a more aggressive, duty ready aesthetic. Key Specifications (Typical WCP320 9mm Models) • Caliber: 9mm Luger • Capacity: 17+1 rounds (standard) • Barrel Length: 3.9" (Carry) or 4.7" (Full Size) • Weight: Approximately 26.8–29.2 oz depending on configuration • Overall Length: 7.5"–8.25" depending on model These dimensions place the WCP320 squarely in the realm of duty and defensive pistols, with the Carry model offering a more compact footprint for concealed carry. Grip Module: The Heart of the Upgrade One of the most transformative elements of the WCP320 is the proprietary Wilson Combat grip module. Compared to the standard SIG module, Wilson’s design offers: • More aggressive texturing for a secure hold • A reshaped trigger guard for improved control • Enhanced beavertail geometry to mitigate muzzle rise • A slimmer, more ergonomic profile that fits a wider range of hands Shooters often describe the grip as the single biggest improvement over the factory P320, giving the pistol a more custom fit feel. Slide and Sights: Built for Real World Use The WCP320’s slide is re machined with Wilson Combat’s X TAC pattern, providing deep, directional serrations that excel in wet, gloved, or high stress conditions. The slide is then finished in black DLC, a coating known for its hardness and resistance to wear. Wilson Combat’s battle sights — typically a black rear with a high visibility front — are designed for rapid sight alignment and durability under hard use. Trigger and Internal Enhancements While the P320 is already known for its modular fire control unit, Wilson Combat refines the system with: • A smoother, crisper trigger pull (depending on selected trigger type) • Tuned internal components for improved consistency • Optional upgrades such as match grade barrels and action enhancements These refinements give the WCP320 a more predictable break and reset, contributing to faster follow up shots and tighter groups. Who the WCP320 Is For The Wilson Combat P320 9mm is ideal for shooters who want: • A striker fired pistol with custom shop refinement • A duty capable firearm with enhanced ergonomics • A competition ready platform without aftermarket tinkering • A premium version of a proven, modular handgun system Its price point places it firmly in the premium category, but for many shooters, the performance gains justify the investment. A Premium Take on a Proven Platform The Wilson Combat P320 9mm stands as a testament to what happens when a respected custom shop reimagines a modern, modular pistol. It retains the P320’s reliability and adaptability while elevating nearly every aspect of its performance and handling. For shooters who want a striker fired pistol that feels purpose built, meticulously tuned, and ready for anything from duty use to competition, the WCP320 is one of the most compelling options on the market.
Gun Show: Voyage to the Bottom of The TOILET…Beware…….. The modern gun show is a sensory overload of beef jerky, political bumper stickers, and rows of black rifles, but hidden among the legitimate dealers are traps designed to separate the uninformed from their cash. While many tables offer honest surplus and fair deals, a specific subset of vendors relies on myths, modifications, and flat-out forgeries to inflate prices on otherwise common firearms. Understanding the difference between a rare historical artifact and a garage-cobbled fabrication requires a skeptical eye and a knowledge of specific manufacturing tells. The following list highlights the most pervasive “scams” currently circulating the show circuit, offering the necessary details to spot them before the wallet comes out. 1. The “Mitchell’s Mausers” Trap For years, ads promised pristine German K98ks stored in salt mines, but these are aggressively refurbished Russian captures. The main giveaway is the bolt; original German bolts were blued, while these are polished bright “in the white” to look new. With sanded, bleached stocks and scrubbed markings, they are overpriced mix-masters sold as collector-grade artifacts rather than shooters. 2. The Mythical “Tanker” Garand The “Tanker” Garand is a persistent myth; this short-barreled configuration was never standard issue. The U.S. military tested a prototype but rejected it for excessive muzzle blast. The versions found at shows are commercial creations made by welding cut operating rods. These modifications often cause serious timing issues, making them unreliable novelties rather than historical rarities. 3. Fake Nazi-Marked “Capture” Pistols High prices for Nazi-marked weapons encourage forgers to apply fake eagle stamps to standard commercial pistols. A key tell is the “cold stamp” technique; if the metal inside the stamp looks bright or raw compared to the surrounding bluing, it was applied recently. Forgers also frequently use the wrong inspection codes for the specific make and model; a detail easily checked with a reference guide. 4. The Deadly Khyber Pass Copy Originating from Pakistan’s Darra Adam Khel region, these handmade copies of British military rifles are often unsafe to fire. Built from soft, unhardened steel, they cannot withstand modern ammunition pressures. Visual giveaways include reversed letters in the stampings or a “V.R.” royal cypher dated after 1901. Selling these ethnographic curiosities as functional surplus is a dangerous scam. 5. “Re-Welded” M1 Garand Receivers Between the 1960s and 1980s, cut-up receiver scrap was welded back together to build functional rifles. These “rewelds” are structurally suspect and hold a fraction of the value of an uncut receiver. To spot one, examine the receiver legs for discoloration in the (parkerization) or grinding marks. If the drawing number’s heat lot code does not match the serial number date, it is a welded marriage. 6. The “All-Matching” Mosin Nagant With Soviet surplus, there is a massive difference between factory original and “force-matched” refurbs. During post-war rebuilding, arsenals swapped parts and restamped them to match the barrel. A seller claiming an “all-matching” Mosin is rare; if the font on the bolt differs from the barrel, or the floorplate has a struck-through number, it is a refurbished shooter, not a collector piece. 7. The Counterfeit PU Sniper Genuine Soviet PU snipers are rare, leading to a flood of fakes created by drilling standard infantry rifles. A real sniper will have the scope’s serial number stamped on the barrel shank. Fakes often feature pristine wood cuts for the mount, whereas authentic stocks show patina or shellac inside the cut. If the mounting screws look like modern hardware store replacements, the rifle is a fabrication. 8. Re-Blued Colt Pythons Coati077, CC BY-SA 4.0 / Wikimedia Commons with Colt Python prices soaring, dishonest sellers often re-blue worn examples to pass them off as mint originals. A factory finish is legendary for its mirror-like depth, while a re-blue often blurs the stamped lettering. The “rampant colt” logo may look shallow or washed out from buffing. Additionally, the side plate should fit perfectly; a visible gap or rounded edges indicate an aftermarket finish. 9. The “Vietnam Bring-Back” Story Sellers often price standard SKS or Tokarev pistols at triple value based on unverifiable stories of them being “taken off an officer.” Without the official DD Form 603 capture papers, the firearm is legally just a standard import. Dealers rely on emotional storytelling to close the sale, but the golden rule of collecting applies buy the gun, not the story. Without documentation, the history is worthless. 10. The “Unfired” Commemorative Winchester In the 1970s, Winchester produced endless “Commemorative Edition” rifles featuring gold plating and medallions. Sold as instant investments, they were made in such high numbers that they possess little collector scarcity today. Sellers often price them high, hoping a buyer mistakes “shiny” for valuable. The gaudy plating makes them poor shooters, and they often sell for less than standard models. 11. No-Name “Custom” AR-15 Builds Tables covered in “custom” AR-15s with bright anodized parts often hide cheap components behind flashy aesthetics. These builds are frequently assembled from bottom-tier parts and out-of-spec receivers yet carry price tags over $1,200. Unless the seller provides a build sheet listing reputable manufacturers for the barrel and bolt, these are often overpriced “Franken-guns” worth less than an entry-level rifle.
Crossing State Lines With a Firearm: What to Know. Please Check The Locations You Are Traveling To. Ignorance is NOT An EXCUSE!!!!! Let's Take a LOOK Gregg Kielma Legal Gun Owners: Things You Must Never Do While Traveling Across State Lines Traveling with firearms across state lines requires close attention to federal and state laws on possession, storage, and carry. Mistakes can lead to loss of protection, criminal charges, or confiscation. Knowing local requirements and permit reciprocity helps gun owners avoid violations while driving or flying. Traveling with a loaded firearm in the vehicle Carrying a loaded firearm in a passenger area violates federal travel rules, which require guns to be unloaded, locked, and out of reach. Many states consider loaded guns in glove boxes or consoles illegal, even for permit holders. Unsecured firearms increase risks and legal penalties; storing them in a locked case away from occupants meets federal and local requirements for interstate travel. Assuming your gun is legal in every state you enter A firearm permitted at home may be restricted in other states due to differing laws on calibers, magazines, or features. Some states prohibit certain guns regardless of permits. Legal experts caution that entering a stricter state can make possession illegal. Always verify legality in both origin and destination, as safe passage rules require the gun to be lawful in both. Believing your concealed carry permit is valid everywhere Permit reciprocity is not universal; several states do not acknowledge out-of-state permits. Law enforcement officials emphasize that presuming recognition may inadvertently result in unlawful carry charges. Each state establishes unique qualification standards, training protocols, and lists of approved permits. Prior to travel, responsible firearm owners consult each state's reciprocity lists and familiarize themselves with restrictions related to carrying loaded or concealed firearms. Neglecting this due diligence can lead to immediate legal consequences, even if the firearm is otherwise legally owned and transported. Keeping ammunition in the same accessible space as the firearm Federal guidelines require storing firearms and ammunition separately when traveling across state lines. Keeping them together within reach can violate legal protections and appear unlawful. Use locked cases outside passenger access for compliance and safety. Proper storage shows responsibility and helps ensure smooth interactions with law enforcement. Storing ammunition correctly is as vital as storing firearms. Making unnecessary detours or extended stops in restrictive states Safe travel laws only protect direct transit; stopping in states with strict firearm rules makes travelers subject to local possession laws, risking immediate legal issues. Continuous travel preserves federal protection, so planning routes avoids jurisdictions with tighter regulations. Using cases that are not securely locked or durable Transporting firearms in unlocked or flimsy cases does not meet federal standards. Experts advise using hard-sided, locked cases to prevent unauthorized access and ensure safety. Soft bags can be seen as unsafe and may cause legal or safety issues during inspections. Traveling with firearms that have altered or missing serial numbers It is illegal to possess or transport firearms with defaced or unreadable serial numbers, regardless of ownership. Even accidental possession can lead to serious charges, and many states impose extra penalties for transporting such weapons. Always check that firearm serial numbers are intact and visible before travel to avoid violating regulations. Ignoring magazine or feature restrictions in certain states Some states limit magazine size or feature like folding stocks and threaded barrels. Transporting restricted components can lead to violations, even with proper storage. Review state restrictions before traveling, as prohibited magazines or accessories may result in confiscation or legal action. Understanding these rules helps ensure compliance with varying firearm equipment regulations. Relying on federal law without checking local ordinances Federal regulations set basic standards for firearm transport, but many states and cities have stricter rules for storage, possession, and transit. Legal experts note that local laws may differ from state laws, creating risks of unintentional violations. It is important to research all applicable regulations before traveling to avoid penalties and ensure smooth travel. Shipping firearms improperly across state lines Federal law states that most firearms sent across state borders must go through licensed dealers. Sending a handgun directly to someone else is against these laws and can lead to serious penalties. Experts suggest double-checking how to package, what carriers allow, and the rules at the destination before mailing any gun. By following these proper steps, you help ensure safe handling and stay within the regulations designed to protect interstate commerce. Responsible gun owners always use approved methods (FFL’s) to avoid accidentally breaking federal shipping and transfer laws.
