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 NSSF opposed and his nomination was withdrawn.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.
Gregg Kielma USCCA Instructor-FFL-Gunsmith-ERT Captain-First Aid Instructor 🧭 Where Gregg Kielma Stands in the Florida Firearm Training Community Internet Community 4/12/2026 1. A Recognized, Multi Certified Instructor Kielma holds a broad suite of USCCA certifications, including concealed carry, home defense, countering mass shooters, women’s self defense, children’s firearms safety, first aid, and range safety operations. His profile shows a 5.0 instructor rating and active class schedule, indicating strong student satisfaction and steady demand. This positions him as a well-rounded, technically competent instructor rather than a niche specialist. 2. A Credible FFL and Gunsmith His Federal Firearms License (FFL #1 59 081 01 8L 57063) is active through 2028, confirming his legitimacy as a dealer and gunsmith. This adds weight to his standing: many instructors teach, but far fewer combine instruction + gunsmithing + compliance knowledge. 3. A Community Rooted Voice on Safety and Law Kielma frequently publishes guidance on: • situational awareness • lawful use of force • Florida self defense statutes • responsible ownership His posts emphasize avoidance, legality, and decision making, not bravado—an approach that earns respect among responsible gun owners. This positions him as a public educator, not just a range instructor. 4. Builder of a Purpose Driven Outdoor Training Range His private outdoor range in Parrish is designed around calm, controlled, realistic training, reinforcing his philosophy of competence through safety and confidence. Creating a dedicated training environment elevates his status from “instructor” to training provider and community resource. 5. Student Feedback and Reputation Public reviews and descriptions highlight: • patience • clarity • humor balanced with seriousness • ability to simplify complex topics • strong real world experience These traits are consistently associated with top tier civilian instructors. 6. Growing Influence Through Writing and Education Kielma publishes articles on firearms law, safety, and equipment—something relatively few local instructors do. This increases his visibility and positions him as a thought leader, not just a service provider. ⭐ Overall Standing Based on publicly available information, Gregg Kielma stands as: A respected, safety driven, legally knowledgeable firearms instructor with a strong local presence, a professional reputation, and a growing educational footprint. He is not a national celebrity instructor—but within Florida’s training community, especially Manatee County and surrounding areas, he is viewed as a trusted authority and a reliable source of responsible, law aligned firearms, first aid, FFL, range operator education.
Preparing Your Home and Business for Hurricane Season 2026 By Gregory Kielma, Tactical K Training and Firearms 4/11/2026 Hurricane Season 2026 is almost here, and if there’s one thing living in Florida has taught us, it’s this: storms don’t give warnings that fit our schedules. They don’t care if we’re busy, traveling, or hoping this year will be “a quiet one.” Preparedness isn’t panic — it’s responsibility. It’s leadership. And it’s how we protect the people who count on us at home and at work. Kielma advises, "as someone who trains families, businesses, and community members in safety and readiness every day as an ERT Captain for my area, I look at hurricane preparation the same way I look at personal protection: layered, practical, and consistent". 1. Start With Awareness and Planning Storm readiness begins long before the first named system forms. • Review your evacuation zone and routes. Know where you’re going before you need to go. • Make sure every family member or employee understands the plan — communication prevents chaos. • Keep important documents secured, backed up, and accessible. • If you have elderly family members, pets, or employees with mobility challenges, build their needs into the plan now. A plan only works if everyone knows it and can execute it under stress. 2. Strengthen Your Home’s Physical Security Your home is your shelter. Treat it like one. • Inspect windows, doors, and garage doors for weaknesses. Reinforce where needed. • Trim trees and remove loose outdoor items that become airborne hazards. • Clean gutters and drainage areas so water has somewhere to go. • Test generators and fuel supplies — don’t wait until the day before landfall. • Charge power banks, radios, and essential electronics early. If you live in a flood prone area, elevate valuables and electrical components. Water doesn’t need much time to destroy what took years to build. 3. Protect Your Business Like Your Livelihood Depends on It — Because It Does Businesses face unique risks during hurricanes, and many never reopen after a major storm. Preparation is survival. • Back up all digital files and secure physical records. • Protect inventory and equipment from wind and water. • Establish a communication tree for employees. • Review insurance coverage and document your assets with photos and serial numbers. • Secure signage, outdoor fixtures, and anything that can become a projectile. • If you operate a training facility, range, or classroom environment, ensure all firearms, ammunition, and medical supplies are secured according to best practices and legal requirements. A business that prepares early recovers faster — and serves its community when it’s needed most. 4. Build a Practical, Realistic Supply Kit Whether at home or at work, your kit should support at least 72 hours of independence. • Water and shelf stable food • First aid and trauma supplies • Flashlights, batteries, and backup lighting • Medications and hygiene items • Tools, gloves, and protective gear • NOAA weather radio • Cash — because power outages take down card systems • For responsible firearm owners: secure storage, spare batteries for optics, and a plan for transport if evacuation becomes necessary Preparedness is not about fear. It’s about capability. 5. Strengthen Your Digital and Communication Readiness Storms disrupt communication when you need it most. • Keep phones charged and store key contacts offline. • Use group messaging or apps that work on low bandwidth. • Photograph your home, business, and assets before the season begins — documentation speeds up recovery. • Enable emergency alerts on all devices. Information is a survival tool. Treat it like one. 6. After the Storm: Safety First, Always Once the storm passes, the danger isn’t over. • Avoid downed power lines and flooded areas. • Use generators outdoors only — carbon monoxide kills quietly. • Document damage before moving anything. • Check on neighbors, employees, and vulnerable community members. • Be cautious with tools, ladders, and debris — post storm injuries are common. Recovery is a team effort. Community matters. Kielma’s Parting Shot: Prepare NOW Hurricane Season 2026 doesn’t have to be stressful. With preparation, awareness, and consistent habits, we turn uncertainty into confidence. We protect our families, our businesses, and our communities by taking action early — not when the wind is already picking up. Preparedness is leadership. Preparedness is responsibility. Preparedness is peace of mind. Gregg Kielma
How to Prepare For and Survive a Nuclear Attack By Gregory Kielma, Tactical K Training & Firearms 04/12/2026 Most people don’t want to think about nuclear threats — and that’s exactly why so many families and businesses are unprepared. Preparedness isn’t fear. It’s leadership. It’s responsibility. And it’s the difference between chaos and survivability when the unthinkable happens. A nuclear detonation is one of the most extreme emergencies any community can face, but the truth is simple: your actions in the first minutes and hours matter more than anything else. With the right mindset and a few practical steps, you dramatically increase your chances of protecting yourself and the people who count on you. 1. Understand the Threat Without Panic A nuclear attack doesn’t automatically mean total destruction. The impact depends on: • Distance from the blast • Size of the device • Terrain and building structure • Wind and weather patterns Most people outside the immediate blast zone survive the initial detonation. What matters next is avoiding fallout and reducing radiation exposure. Your goal is simple: get inside, stay inside, and stay informed. 2. Build a Realistic Nuclear Preparedness Plan Preparedness doesn’t require bunkers or doomsday gear. It requires clarity, communication, and consistency. Your plan should include: • A designated shelter location (home, business, or a nearby structure) • A communication plan for family or employees • A “stay kit” with essentials for 24–72 hours • A backup plan if you’re away from home Just like fire drills or active threat training, nuclear preparedness is about removing confusion before it costs lives. 3. Know Where to Shelter Your best protection is distance, density, and shielding. Best shelter options: • Basements • Interior rooms with no windows • Large concrete or brick buildings • Underground parking structures Avoid: • Vehicles • Mobile homes • Rooms with large windows • Being outdoors The goal is to put as much heavy material as possible between you and the radioactive particles settling outside. 4. What To Do the Moment You See a Flash If you see a bright flash — brighter than the sun — you have seconds to act. Immediate steps: • Turn away from the flash • Drop to the ground • Cover your head and exposed skin • After the shockwave passes, get inside the nearest solid structure Do not try to watch the blast. Do not run toward windows. Your priority is survival, not curiosity. 5. Once Inside: Seal, Stay, and Stay Put Fallout begins settling within minutes. Inside your shelter: • Close doors and windows • Turn off HVAC systems that pull outside air • Move to the lowest, most central area • Use available materials (furniture, books, concrete walls) as shielding • Stay put for at least 24 hours unless authorities say otherwise Radiation drops rapidly over time. The first 24 hours are the most dangerous. 6. Your 24–72 Hour Survival Kit This isn’t a “prepper” kit — it’s a responsible household and business standard. Include: • Water (1 gallon per person per day) • Non perishable food • Flashlights and batteries • First aid kit • N95 masks or cloth coverings • Battery or crank radio • Medications • Plastic sheeting and tape • Power bank • Copies of IDs and emergency contacts If you run a business, keep a kit on site just like you would an AED or trauma kit. 7. Communication and Information Cell networks may be overloaded or damaged. Your best tool is a battery or crank radio tuned to emergency broadcasts. Do not leave shelter until: • Officials announce it is safe • You must evacuate due to structural damage • You are in immediate danger Leadership in these moments means staying calm, staying informed, and keeping others grounded. Kielma’s Parting Shot: Long-Term Mindset - Preparedness Is Protection You don’t prepare because you expect disaster. You prepare because your family, your students, and your community deserve leadership, not luck. A nuclear attack is survivable for most people outside the immediate blast zone — if they act quickly and intelligently. That’s why training matters. That’s why planning matters. And that’s why responsible citizens take preparedness seriously. Preparedness isn’t panic. Preparedness is confidence. Preparedness is responsibility. Preparedness is survival. — Gregory Kielma Tactical K Training & Firearms
Protecting Our Homes, Businesses, and Families in Today’s Global Conditions By Gregory Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms The world feels different today. Global tensions, economic uncertainty, rising crime in some regions, and the constant flow of information—accurate or not—can leave families and business owners feeling exposed. But uncertainty doesn’t mean helplessness. With the right mindset and a layered approach to safety, we can protect what matters most: our homes, our businesses, and the people we love. 1. Start With Awareness, Not Anxiety Awareness is the foundation of all security. It’s not paranoia—it’s paying attention to what’s happening around you, understanding your environment, and recognizing when something feels off. • Know your neighborhood’s patterns. • Stay informed through reliable sources. • Teach your family or staff to trust their instincts and speak up when something doesn’t look right. Awareness costs nothing, but it prevents more problems than any piece of equipment ever will. 2. Strengthen the Physical Security Layer Whether it’s your home or business, criminals look for easy opportunities. Your goal is to remove those opportunities. • Reinforce doors, windows, and entry points. • Install quality lighting—darkness is an ally to the wrong people. • Use cameras and alarms that notify you instantly. • Keep landscaping trimmed to eliminate hiding spots. Physical security is your first line of defense, and it sends a clear message: this is not an easy target. 3. Protect Your Digital Front Door Cyber threats are just as real as physical ones. Families and businesses must treat digital security as seriously as locks and alarms. • Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication. • Keep software and devices updated. • Teach kids and employees how to recognize phishing attempts. • Back up important data regularly. A single click can compromise your entire household or business. Digital discipline is non-negotiable. 4. Build a Culture of Preparedness Preparedness isn’t fear—it’s responsibility. • Have emergency plans for fire, medical issues, severe weather, or intruders. • Make sure everyone knows how to call for help. • Keep first aid supplies, flashlights, and essential tools accessible. • Train your family or staff in basic first aid and situational awareness. Prepared people stay calmer, make better decisions, and recover faster. 5. Responsible Personal Protection In uncertain times, many people turn to personal protection tools. With that comes responsibility. • Seek proper training—not just in how to use equipment, but when and why. • Understand the laws in your area. • Practice safe storage, especially around children. • Maintain your equipment and your skills. Protection is not about fear or intimidation. It’s about ensuring you can defend yourself and your loved ones ethically, legally, and effectively if there is no other option. 6. Strengthen Your Community Connections Safety is a team effort. • Get to know your neighbors. • Support local businesses. • Participate in community safety programs. • Share information when appropriate. A connected community is a safer community. 7. Stay Calm, Stay Consistent The world may feel unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. Consistency is what keeps families safe and businesses resilient. • Review your safety plans regularly. • Update your equipment as needed. • Keep training, keep learning, and keep improving. Preparedness is not a one-time task—it’s a lifestyle. Kielma’s Final Thoughts We can’t control global events, but we can control how we prepare, how we respond, and how we protect the people and places that matter. Safety is not about living in fear—it’s about living with confidence. When we combine awareness, training, and responsible action, we create stability in an unstable world. Gregg Kielma
Former Parrish Florida Gun Store Employee Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking Firearms and Ammunition to Convicted Felon Tuesday, April 7, 2026 Tampa, Florida – Frank Jude Petrone, Sr. (56, Parrish) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge William F. Jung to three years and one month in federal prison for trafficking in firearms and selling firearms and ammunition to a convicted felon. Petrone pleaded guilty on August 26, 2025. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court documents, on October 2, 2024, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office notified the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives that Petrone was selling firearms to an individual he knew to be a convicted felon. At the time, Petrone was a salesperson for a licensed gun store. On four separate occasions between October 2024 and January 2025, Petrone sold the convicted felon, acting as a confidential source, four firearms and 146 rounds of ammunition. Federal law prohibits selling firearms to a convicted felon, and a convicted felon cannot pass the National Instant Criminal Background Check System. On October 17, 2024, Petrone sold a .357 Taurus International 605 Poly Protector revolver and 10 rounds of .357 ammunition to the confidential source. On November 8, 2024, Petrone sold a 9mm Sig Sauer M18 semi-automatic pistol and 57 rounds of ammunition to the confidential source. On January 2, 2025, Petrone sold a .45 TISAS 1911A1 semi-automatic pistol and 50 rounds of ammunition to the confidential source. During that transaction, Petrone also offered to sell a machinegun with an obliterated serial number. On January 28, 2025, Petrone sold a CZ Scorpion 9-millimeter pistol (not a machinegun), loaded with 29 of a possible 50 rounds of ammunition, to the confidential source. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office . It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam W. McCall. 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. Updated April 7, 2026
Wearing Protective Clothing and Body Armor in Public: A Practical Guide from Tactical K Training and Firearms Gregg Kielma 4/10/2026 In today’s world, personal safety isn’t something you leave to chance. At Tactical K Training and Firearms , we teach students to think ahead, understand their environment, and make decisions that reduce risk long before a threat ever appears. Protective clothing and body armor fit into that mindset — not as a sign of fear, but as a tool for preparedness, just like a seatbelt or a fire extinguisher. Understanding the Purpose of Protective Gear Protective clothing and body armor are designed to give you a margin of safety when the unexpected happens. They don’t make you invincible, and they don’t replace awareness, avoidance, or good judgment. What they do provide is a layer of protection that can buy you time, reduce injury, and increase your chances of surviving a violent encounter. For many responsible citizens, especially those who carry concealed, protective gear is simply another part of their personal safety plan. Types of Protective Clothing and Armor • Soft Armor (Level II, IIIA) — Flexible, lightweight, and suitable for daily wear under normal clothing. Designed to protect against common handgun threats. • Hard Plates (Level III, IV) — Heavier and more rigid, intended for rifle protection. These are typically worn in plate carriers and are more appropriate for specific roles or high risk environments. • Cut Resistant or Slash Resistant Clothing — Useful for individuals working in public facing roles or environments where edged weapons are a concern. • Impact Resistant Gear — Gloves, reinforced jackets, and protective eyewear can reduce injuries during physical confrontations or accidents. Each option has strengths and limitations. The key is matching the gear to your lifestyle, environment, and realistic threat profile. Wearing Armor in Public: What You Need to Know In most states, including Florida, it is legal for law abiding citizens to wear body armor in public. However, legality doesn’t replace responsibility. At Tactical K Training and Firearms , we emphasize three core principles: 1. Blend In, Don’t Stand Out Armor should support your safety, not draw attention. Concealable options allow you to move through public spaces without alarming others or making yourself a target. 2. Know the Law While wearing armor is legal for most people, individuals with certain criminal convictions may be restricted. Always verify your local and state regulations. 3. Train With Your Gear Armor changes your posture, mobility, and heat retention. If you plan to wear it, you need to practice drawing, moving, and problem solving while wearing it. Gear you don’t train with becomes a liability. When Protective Clothing Makes Sense People choose to wear protective gear for many reasons: • Working in public facing roles • Traveling through unfamiliar or high risk areas • Attending large events • Carrying concealed and wanting an added layer of safety • Personal preference based on lifestyle or past experiences There is no single “right” reason — what matters is that the decision is informed, lawful, and part of a broader safety mindset. Kielma’s Parting Shot: It’s a Mindset, Not a Statement Wearing protective clothing or armor isn’t about projecting toughness. It’s about valuing your life and the lives of those you protect. At Tactical K Training and Firearms , we teach that preparedness is quiet, disciplined, and rooted in responsibility. Armor is just one more tool that supports that philosophy. If you choose to incorporate protective gear into your daily routine, do it with intention, knowledge, and respect for the responsibility that comes with it. Gregg Kielma
What To Do If Your Firearm Is Stolen From Your Home or Vehicle By Gregory Kielma, Tactical K Training and Firearms 4/10/2026 As responsible gun owners, we prepare for many scenarios — but few situations feel more violating or stressful than discovering a firearm has been stolen. Whether it’s taken from your home or your vehicle, the way you respond in the next few hours matters. It affects your legal protection, the chances of recovery, and the safety of your community. This guide walks you through the exact steps you should take if you ever find yourself in this situation. 1. Stay Calm and Confirm the Firearm Is Actually Missing Before assuming theft, take a moment to verify: • Did someone else in the household move it? • Was it stored in a secondary safe or case? • Was it recently transported to the range or vehicle? Once you’ve confirmed it’s truly missing, act immediately. Time is your ally. 2. Contact Law Enforcement Right Away A stolen firearm is a serious matter, and reporting it promptly protects you legally and helps prevent that firearm from being used in a crime. When you call law enforcement, be prepared to provide: • Make, model, and caliber • Serial number • Any unique markings or accessories • Where it was stored • When you last saw it • How you believe it was taken If the theft occurred from a vehicle, tell them whether there were signs of forced entry. If it was taken from your home, note any suspicious activity, break ins, or missing property. Request a copy of the police report or case number. You’ll need it for insurance, documentation, and follow up. 3. Notify Your Local Sheriff’s Office or State Agency (If Required) Some states require additional reporting beyond the initial police report. Even if your state doesn’t mandate it, notifying local authorities ensures the firearm is entered into national databases quickly. In Florida, reporting promptly is strongly recommended to protect yourself from liability and to assist in recovery efforts. 4. Inform ATF If the Firearm Was Registered on a Form 1 or Form 4 If the stolen firearm is an NFA item (suppressor, SBR, SBS, etc.), you must notify the ATF using ATF Form 3310.11 – Federal Firearms Licensee Theft/Loss Report. Even as a private owner, you are required to report the loss of an NFA item. 5. Contact Your Insurance Provider If you have: • Homeowners insurance • Renters insurance • A firearms-specific rider • A safe or equipment policy …you may be eligible for reimbursement. Provide them with: • The police report number • Photos of the firearm (if available) • Purchase receipts or documentation Insurance companies often require proof of secure storage, so be prepared to explain how the firearm was stored at the time of the theft. 6. Notify Your Local Gun Shops and Pawn Shops Many stolen firearms eventually show up in: • Pawn shops • Secondhand gun stores • Gun shows Provide them with: • Serial number • Make and model • Your contact information • The police case number They cannot legally return the firearm to you directly, but they can alert law enforcement if it appears. 7. Strengthen Your Security Immediately A theft is a wake up call. After reporting the incident, take steps to prevent it from happening again: • Upgrade your safe or lockbox • Add vehicle lockboxes if you must store a firearm in your car • Install cameras or motion lighting • Reinforce doors, windows, or garage access points • Avoid leaving firearms in vehicles overnight Criminals often return to the same location if they believe more firearms are present. 8. Follow Up Periodically Law enforcement agencies handle thousands of cases. A polite follow up every few weeks keeps your case active and ensures your information stays current. If your firearm is recovered, you’ll be contacted — but staying engaged increases the odds. Kielma’s Parting Shot: A stolen firearm is more than a loss of property — it’s a threat to public safety and a liability for the owner. Acting quickly, documenting everything, and reinforcing your security are the best ways to protect yourself and your community. Responsible ownership doesn’t end when a firearm goes missing. It begins again with how you respond. Gregg Kielma
Can Someone Accuse You of Pointing a Finger and Claim It Was a Firearm? By Gregory Kielma As a firearms instructor, I get asked all kinds of questions about what people can accuse you of, especially in tense situations. One that comes up more often than you’d think is this: “If I point my finger, a phone, or some other object at someone, can they claim I pointed a gun at them?” The short answer is yes — a person can claim almost anything. The real issue is whether that claim holds up under investigation, evidence, and the law. 1. Anyone Can Make an Accusation — That Doesn’t Make It True People report things based on: • Fear • Misinterpretation • Anger • Poor visibility • Emotional reactions Law enforcement has to respond to the report, but that doesn’t mean the accusation is automatically valid. 2. What Matters Is Evidence When police investigate a “pointing a firearm” allegation, they look for: • A firearm present on scene • Witness statements • Surveillance video • Body worn camera footage • Physical evidence • Consistency in the reporting person’s story If all you did was point a finger, a pen, a phone, or gesture with your hand, and there’s no firearm, the evidence will reflect that. 3. Intent Matters Too Most states require some level of intent to threaten or cause fear for a charge like “aggravated assault with a firearm.” Pointing a finger in a casual or non threatening way is not the same as brandishing a weapon. But if someone felt threatened, they may still call the police — and that’s why your behavior, tone, and body language matter. 4. Why These Situations Get Messy In my experience teaching firearms safety and conflict avoidance, misunderstandings happen when: • Tempers are high • People are already nervous • Someone assumes the worst • Someone wants to “win” an argument • Someone is unfamiliar with firearms and panics This is why I always teach students: your best weapon is your judgment. 5. Protect Yourself With Good Habits You can’t control what someone accuses you of, but you can control your conduct: • Avoid escalating arguments • Keep your hands visible and non threatening • Walk away when possible • Use calm, clear communication • Never mimic a firearm with your hands in a heated situation These habits reduce misunderstandings and protect you legally and personally. Kielma’s Parting Shot: Accusations are easy to make. Evidence is what matters. And your behavior — especially as a responsible gun owner — is what keeps you out of unnecessary trouble. Gregg Kielma
The Face of a Tyrant Coward: Chicago Mayor Brad Johnson **Report by Gregory Kielma**: Anti‑Gun Chicago Mayor Spends $30 Million a Year on His Armed Security Detail** Recent reporting out of Chicago has revealed a striking contradiction between the city’s political messaging on firearms and the personal security practices of its leadership. According to multiple sources, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson — a vocal supporter of some of the most restrictive gun-control measures in Illinois — is protected by an armed security detail that rivals or exceeds that of any major U.S. mayor. Estimates place the cost of this protection at approximately $30 million per year, funded entirely by taxpayers. A Security Force Larger Than Many City Units Reports indicate that Mayor Johnson’s protective detail includes up to 150 Chicago Police Department officers, a dramatic expansion compared to previous administrations. For context, former Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s detail reportedly used around 90 officers — a number that was already controversial. Johnson’s detail now surpasses that, making it one of the largest mayoral protection units in the country. To put this in perspective, only 130 full‑time officers are assigned to patrol the entire Chicago Transit Authority system — 79 stations, 146 platforms, and 335 trains. That means the mayor has more officers guarding him personally than the number assigned to protect millions of daily commuters. Taxpayer Burden and Expanding Costs While salary costs alone are estimated at $22.5 million annually, the total cost — including overtime, vehicles, logistics, and specialized equipment — pushes the figure beyond $30 million per year. This level of expenditure has drawn scrutiny, especially as the city faces ongoing challenges with violent crime, youth victimization, and strained police resources. Policy Contradictions and Public Perception The controversy is not simply about whether a mayor should have security. Public officials often require protection. The issue, as highlighted by the National Shooting Sports Foundation and other commentators, is the double standard: strict gun-control policies for the public, paired with expansive armed protection for political leadership. Mayor Johnson has supported Illinois’ bans on certain semiautomatic rifles and magazine capacities, praising court decisions that upheld these restrictions as “important steps” for public safety. Yet his own security relies on the very tools and personnel that ordinary residents are increasingly restricted from accessing. Two Sets of Rules Commentary from constitutional analysts frames this as a “two‑tier theory of safety”: Protected class: public officials with taxpayer‑funded armed security Restricted class: ordinary residents facing tighter limits on lawful self‑defense tools This tension fuels public cynicism, especially in a city where violent crime remains a persistent concern. Kielma's Parting Shot The debate surrounding Mayor Johnson’s security detail is not merely about budget numbers — it’s about trust, consistency, and the message sent to the public. When leadership relies on extensive armed protection while advocating policies that limit the defensive options of law‑abiding citizens, the disconnect becomes impossible to ignore. As someone who trains responsible gun owners and emphasizes personal preparedness, I believe transparency and consistency are essential. Chicago residents deserve a clear explanation for why their mayor requires one of the largest armed security details in the nation while they are asked to accept increasingly restrictive limits on their own ability to stay safe.
Firearms in National and State Parks: What Responsible Gun Owners Need to Know By Gregory Kielma, Tactical K Training and Firearms Firearms and America’s public lands have a long, intertwined history. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or traveling through one of our national or state parks, understanding the laws that govern firearm possession is essential. As responsible gun owners, we don’t just carry for protection — we carry with knowledge, intention, and respect for the places we visit. Federal Law: National Parks and National Wildlife Refuges Since 2010, federal law has allowed individuals to possess firearms in national parks and national wildlife refuges as long as they comply with the firearm laws of the state in which the park is located. In other words, state law controls. If you can legally carry in that state — whether concealed or open — you can generally carry in the national park within that state. However, there are important exceptions: Federal facilities remain gun‑free zones. This includes visitor centers, ranger stations, administrative buildings, and maintenance facilities. These locations are required to post signage at entrances. Firearm discharge is prohibited except in lawful self‑defense. Recreational shooting is not allowed in national parks unless specifically designated. State Parks: A Patchwork of Rules State parks operate under state law, and the rules vary widely. Some states mirror their general carry laws, while others impose additional restrictions. In Florida where I reside, for example, lawful concealed carry is permitted in state parks, and this aligns with the state’s broader recognition of the right to self‑defense. Other states may restrict carry, limit open carry, or prohibit firearms in certain facilities. Before traveling, always verify: Whether the state recognizes your permit (if applicable) Whether open or concealed carry is allowed Whether firearms are prohibited in campgrounds, buildings, or recreational areas Whether magazine or ammunition restrictions apply Transporting Firearms Through Parks Even when carry is allowed, responsible transport matters: Keep firearms secured and under your control Follow all state vehicle transport laws Store firearms safely when not carried on your person Be mindful of crossing state lines — reciprocity changes instantly For those traveling long distances, especially across multiple states, planning ahead prevents legal surprises. Why This Matters for Responsible Owners Carrying in parks isn’t about “bringing guns into nature.” It’s about acknowledging reality: wildlife encounters, remote locations, and delayed emergency response times can create situations where self‑defense becomes necessary. But with that right comes responsibility: Know the law Respect posted restrictions Maintain muzzle discipline and safe handling at all times Understand that negligent discharge in a park environment can have serious consequences for people, wildlife, and the land itself Kielma's Final Thoughts Our national and state parks belong to all of us. As responsible firearm owners, we set the example for how to carry safely, legally, and respectfully in these shared spaces. Education is the foundation of responsible ownership, and understanding the laws surrounding firearms in parks is part of that commitment. If you have questions about lawful carry, safe transport, or training for outdoor environments, Tactical K Training and Firearms is here to help. Knowledge builds confidence — and confidence builds safety. Gregg Kielma
