Gregory Kielma • October 31, 2023
Biden Administration Opens a New Front in its War on Guns and the Companies That Make Them
By Larry Keane -October 31, 20237
President Joe Biden is stepping up his effort to cripple the firearm industry, the one industry that provides the means for law-abiding citizens to exercise their Second Amendment rights.
President Biden’s Commerce Department issued a new and unprecedented edict that bans the export of firearms, ammunition and certain accessories to most overseas markets. The Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security posted a notice of a 90-day “pause” for the exports on a Friday afternoon – on the Frequently Asked Questions Section that’s listed on the bottom the BIS website.
The “Friday news dump” was apparently an attempt to slip the kneecapping of the industry under the radar. However, this appears to be a coordinated event and more evidence of gun control groups steering domestic and foreign policy for the Biden administration.
Earlier Attacks
President Biden’s revulsion that Americans would actually choose to exercise their Second Amendment rights has long been clear. He labeled firearm manufacturers “the enemy” at the outset of his campaign for The White House. That was a purposeful choice of words. He didn’t say the firearm industry “opposed” his policies, nor did he say it was an “adversary.” He chose to call the firearm industry “the enemy,” labeling it as an existential threat to the America he wanted to fashion during his administration.
Since he was inaugurated, Biden has taken every opportunity to wage a campaign against the firearm industry and gun owners in general. He nominated David Chipman, a gun control lobbyist, to lead the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The ATF, of course, is the federal agency that regulates the firearm industry. His nomination was akin to putting the fox in charge of the hen house. NSSF opposed and his nomination was withdrawn. Director Steve Dettelbach was later nominated and confirmed by the U.S. Senate.
Giffords David Chipman ATF
Giffords Law Center Senior Policy Advisor David Chipman (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)
There’s also the ATF’s “zero-tolerance” policy that has seen federal firearms licenses (FFLs) revoked and businesses closed for minor clerical errors, even in cases that were addressed and closed. Some of those cases were reopened to revoke licenses and shut down businesses and livelihoods. As part of that pressure campaign, there’s been a significant increase in the number of “voluntary” license surrenders by business owners who agreed to give up their licenses instead of fight the weight of the federal government over the onerous policy.
President Biden has used nearly every lever of government he can to erect roadblocks to law-abiding citizens to exercise their Second Amendment rights and hobble the firearm industry’s ability to meet the demands of gun owners. He issued Final Rules through the Department of Justice (DOJ) and ATF to attempt an end-around Congress and redefine “frames or receivers” and ban stabilizing pistol braces.
The frame or receiver rule outlawed the sale of unfinished firearm parts kits and his stabilizing pistol brace rule redefined brace-equipped pistols as short-barreled rifles, requiring that they be registered as controlled items under the National Firearms Act, requiring tax stamps and submission of fingerprints, photos and redundant background checks.
Both Final Rules are being challenged in the courts as unconstitutional. That’s because they are. The Final Rules create criminal law without the consent and will of Congress. It is important to remember that only Congress can write laws – especially those that involve criminal punishments. When an executive authority does that on its own, that’s tantamount to tyranny.
President Biden also took aim at gun owners and hunters by kowtowing to anti-hunting and antigun special interests to ban the use of traditional lead ammunition on National Wildlife Refuges (NWRs). His administration hasn’t done this just once – but twice (and just last week). These rules phase out the use of traditional lead ammunition and require more expensive and less available alternative ammunition. It was announced that it was to protect wildlife populations from the detrimental effects of the use of traditional ammunition.
Shotgun ammunition shells lead
President Biden promised his administration would “follow the science,” except it isn’t. There is no peer-reviewed, site-specific evidence to support the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) claims. They published the rules claiming to protect human health, California condors and American bald eagles. But the sites where they are banning the ammunition don’t hold condor populations.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s own research demonstrates there is no human risk from consuming game harvested using traditional ammunition. American bald eagles are thriving, in large part because of the contributions paid by firearm and ammunition manufacturers through Pittman-Robertson excise taxes. That’s benefited wildlife conservation to the tune of over $25 billion since 1937, when adjusted for inflation.
The Latest Salvo
Now, the Biden administration has slipped in this “pause” on firearm exports. That’s significant for several reasons.
First, President Biden campaigned on reversing the U.S. Munitions List to Commerce Control List (USML-CCL) export reforms that were begun under the Obama-Biden administration and completed by the Trump administration. Those reforms reduced regulatory costs and streamlined exports while strengthening end-to-end user checks to ensure firearm exports weren’t being sent overseas to bad actors.
Opponents of these reforms include disgraced U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), who coveted his Senate oversight role to bless or block any firearm exports under the old rules.
Senator Robert Menendez New Jersey
It’s now apparent why he so zealously wanted that oversight back. The longtime ally of President Biden was recently indicted on federal corruption and bribery charges that stem from him greasing the skids for small-arms shipments to companies in Egypt. FBI officials raided his home and found hundreds of thousands of dollars wadded up and stuffed in his jacket pockets, along with stacks of gold bars. The twice-indicted senator has also been charged with illegally acting as an agent for the Egyptian government.
The export “pause” is unprecedented and the timing is suspect. The Biden administration’s new Office of Gun Violence Prevention, which is staffed by gun control lobbyists and activists, just concluded a roundtable meeting with Democratic lieutenant governors to explore new ways they could collaborate on more gun control.
It also took place in the wake of successive Bloomberg News features that called into question exports to foreign countries, falsely alleging that U.S. manufacturers are somehow complicit in stoking crime.
One was an attack on SIG SAUER over crime in Thailand and a later article focused on Central and South America. Another attacked the Commerce Department’s role in assisting U.S. manufacturers at NSSF’s annual SHOT Show. That’s something the Commerce Department does for all industries.
Bloomberg News is owned, of course, by Michael Bloomberg. He’s the billionaire former New York City mayor who flamed out on his own attempt to occupy the Oval Office. He also ran an undercover sting to uncover illegal gun trafficking in other states…without notifying the ATF or FBI. That put the lives of federal agents in jeopardy and was subsequently chastised by his own police chief and the U.S. Department of Justice.
Michael Bloomberg
Bloomberg is also the financier of Everytown for Gun Safety and their mouthpiece The Trace, the gun control group that now has office space in The White House, along with other gun control projects he’s funding, such as Moms Demand Action, Students Demand Action and the Center for Gun Violence Solutions at Johns Hopkins University’s Bloomberg School of Public Health. When you pay that much money to fund gun control, universities name an entire school after you.
During this so-called “pause” in exports, the Commerce Department will conduct a “policy review to determine if changes are warranted to advance U.S. national security and policy interests.” Of course, this raises concerns that under the guise of human rights, the Biden administration will actually attempt to undo the USML-CCL reforms, extend the “pause” indefinitely, impose unwarranted regulatory burdens to increase costs to exporters and close off overseas markets to American firearm manufacturers.
Purely Political
All firearm and ammunition exports, of course, are subject to Defense and State Department review, which can halt exports if there are concerns. Firearm and ammunition license applications undergo a 100 percent end-user check by the BIS Office of Export Enforcement. They do this regardless of how long a company has been doing business with a particular customer, regardless of how many times the buyer was subjected to an end-user check and regardless of whether BIS has no derogatory information on that customer, even if the end-user was recently approved.
At present, no other commodity is subject to this same 100 percent check requirement. The kicker is that The White House has complete authority to regulate the export of firearms. That’s what exposes this “pause” as being purely politically motivated.
In July, the Biden administration sought to create a new division within BIS called “Embargoes and Human Rights.” With the assistance of the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Commerce, Justice and Science, this creation of the division was blocked. It could be that the export “pause” is political payback.
There’s no right to export and the decision to grant or deny a license is purely a function of the national security and foreign policy assessment of those in charge. The USML-CCL reforms give the administration complete and essential unfettered discretion. BIS invoked national security and foreign affairs as the reason for the pause.
Congressional reaction to this move comes through the power of the purse. Congress can – and must – act through appropriations to ensure that the Biden administration is held accountable for its attempt to kneecap the industry through this unprecedented halt in exports
This is a naked attempt by the Biden administration to hobble the firearm industry, which President Biden made more than clear he despises. It’s also a shameless favor to the gun control industry that have bought their way into The White House and are now using foreign policy to exert their influence over domestic policy.
The American firearm industry has been called the “arsenal of democracy” because a strong and robust small arms manufacturing base has armed and equipped our law enforcement at home and our military and allies abroad. President Biden’s export “pause” is an attempt to weaken that capability and diminish the industry that provides the means for Americans to exercise their Second Amendment rights.
Larry Keane is SVP for Government and Public Affairs, Assistant Secretary and General Counsel of the National Shooting Sports Foundation.
Illegal Glock Switch China and More Illegal Glock Switch's: Pensacola Florida Man Going to Jail Sam Rogers 12/31/25 19-year-old Pensacola resident, Tre’Veonce Ezekiel Sanders, pleaded guilty in federal court to possessing a machine gun, an unregistered firearm, and intent to distribute marijuana after a parcel from China led to his arrest. Federal agencies HSI and ATF investigated the case, which is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica S. Etherton. Sanders faces up to ten years in prison for each firearm charge and five years for the drug offense, with sentencing scheduled for March 10, 2026.
Gregg Kielma Florida Gun Law Changes to Watch in 2026 Gregg Kielma 12/31/25 Happy New Year Florida Firearm Owners and Firearm Owners Around the Country. Today we look at firearm ownership in Florida. Don’t dismay, I promise to look at all the firearm 2026, laws monthly in each state across the United States starting with Alabama in a few days. Please be patient and check back as I receive the best and most updated information in real time as I receive it. Disclaimer: I’m not an attorney, however, as I scour the internet and make calls to state capitols to verify, I’ll give you the best information I receive in r eal time. My Home State, Florida: Let’s Take a LOOK A Tactical K Training & Firearms Educational Brief As we move into 2026, Florida gun owners are facing a year of significant legal movement. While no single sweeping law automatically takes effect on January 1, several major legislative and court driven changes are in motion that could reshape how Floridians purchase, carry, and train with firearms. At Tactical K Training & Firearms , our mission is to keep our community informed, prepared, and confident in their responsibilities as lawful gun owners. Florida: Below is a clear, no-nonsense breakdown of the most important developments to watch in 2026. 1. Possible Change: Long Gun Purchase Age Lowered to 18 Florida lawmakers are again considering lowering the minimum age to purchase rifles and other long guns from 21 back to 18. A bill advancing through the Legislature would reverse the 2018 post Parkland age increase. If passed, this would: • Restore 18–20 year old adults’ ability to purchase long guns • Align Florida with federal standards • Expand access for younger hunters, sports shooters, and new firearm owners This is one of the most closely watched proposals of the 2026 session. 2. Open Carry May Become Legal A recent appeals court ruling found Florida’s open carry ban unconstitutional, setting the stage for a major shift in how Floridians may legally carry firearms. What this could mean: • Florida could move from permitless concealed carry to full permitless carry • Open carry could become lawful statewide • Final outcome depends on whether the Florida Supreme Court upholds or overturns the ruling f or gun owners, this is a potential game changer. 3. Thirteen Gun Related Bills Filed for the 2026 Session Lawmakers have filed a wide range of firearm related bills for consideration in 2026. These include proposals to: • Repeal the under 21 purchase restriction • Expand or clarify permitless carry • Introducing new background check requirements • Adjust existing statutes based on recent court decisions Not all of these bills will advance, but the volume alone signals a year of active debate. 4. U.S. Supreme Court May Review Florida’s Under 21 Rifle Ban Florida’s 2018 law restricting long gun purchases to those 21 and older is now positioned for potential review by the U.S. Supreme Court. If the Court takes the case: • A ruling could override Florida law • The Legislature may adjust state statutes in response • National precedent could be set This is a major federal level factor influencing Florida’s 2026 landscape. 5. Permitless Concealed Carry Remains in Effect Florida’s 2023 permitless concealed carry law remains unchanged. Optional concealed weapon licenses (CWLs) continue to be available, and the state has streamlined the application process with faster approvals and reduced administrative delays. At Tactical K Training and Firearms, we continue to recommend training and education for all firearm owners — with or without a permit. What This Means for Florida Gun Owners 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year. The most likely areas of change include: • Age requirements for long gun purchases • Open carry legality • Court driven adjustments to existing statutes • Legislative updates affecting training, purchasing, and carrying As always, Tactical K Training & Firearms will continue to monitor developments and provide clear, responsible updates to our students and community. Kielma’s Parting Shot: Stay Informed Stay Responsible. Whether you’re a new gun owner or a seasoned shooter, understanding Florida’s evolving legal landscape is essential. Tactical K Training and Firearms is committed to delivering accurate information and high-quality training that empowers you to carry confidently and responsibly. Gregg Kielma
Marijuana & Firearm Ownership in Florida: What Tactical K Training and Firearms Students and Firearm Transfers Need to Know Gregg Kielma 12/31/25 Kielma says "Let's Take a Look" At Tactical K Training and Firearms, we believe responsible firearm ownership starts with understanding the law. One topic that continues to create confusion for Florida gun owners and Gun owner around the United States, is the relationship between medical marijuana use and firearm possession. Because state and federal laws don’t currently align , it’s essential for every gun owner — especially medical marijuana patients — to understand the risks and responsibilities involved. Florida Law: Medical Marijuana Is Legal Florida’s medical marijuana program allows qualified patients to legally obtain and use cannabis for approved medical conditions. Under state law, holding a medical marijuana card does not prevent someone from owning or possessing a firearm. Florida does not have a statute that restricts gun ownership based solely on medical marijuana use. Federal Law: Marijuana Is Still a Controlled Substance Even though Florida permits medical marijuana, federal law still classifies marijuana as a Schedule I controlled substance. Under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3), anyone considered an “unlawful user of a controlled substance” is prohibited from possessing or purchasing firearms. This creates the conflict: • State law allows medical marijuana and firearm ownership. • Federal law prohibits firearm possession by anyone using marijuana, even medically. When purchasing a firearm from a licensed dealer, buyers must complete ATF Form 4473, which asks whether they use marijuana. Answering “yes” results in a denied purchase. Answering “no” while using marijuana is a federal felony. Recent Court Activity Federal courts have recently questioned whether the marijuana and firearm prohibition is constitutional. Some rulings have favored medical marijuana patients, but these decisions are not final nationwide and may continue to evolve. For now, the federal prohibition technically remains in place. What This Means for Tactical K Training and Firearms Students and Firearm Transfers At Tactical K Training and Firearms, our mission is to help every student stay safe, informed, and compliant with the law. Here’s what Florida gun owners should keep in mind: 1. State and federal laws conflict You may be legal under Florida law but still restricted under federal law. 2. Form 4473 must be answered truthfully Lying on the form is a serious federal offense. 3. Enforcement varies Most §922(g)(3) cases arise during other criminal investigations, but the risk still exists. 4. Stay informed Legal challenges are ongoing, and the landscape may change in the coming years. Tactical K Training and Firearms Position Tactical K Training and Firearms does not provide legal advice, but we do emphasize: • Safe handling • Responsible ownership • Understanding the laws that apply to you If you are a medical marijuana patient or considering becoming one, it’s important to stay aware of how your choices may affect your firearm rights under federal law. Kielma’s Parting Shot: The intersection of marijuana and firearm ownership in Florida is complex, and the laws continue to evolve. Tactical K Training is committed to helping our students navigate these issues with clarity and confidence. As always, responsible ownership begins with education — and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Gregg Kielma
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
