FBI Disrupts Alleged New Year’s Eve Attack, Man Charged with Attempting to Provide Material Support to ISIS Friday, January 2, 2026 Office of Public Affairs Today, the Justice Department and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of North Carolina announced that a Mint Hill, North Carolina man that allegedly planned to use knives and hammers to execute a deadly New Year’s Eve attack at a grocery store and a fast food restaurant in support of the Islamic State in Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) has been arrested and charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization. The criminal complaint was filed on Dec. 31, 2025, and was unsealed today after Christian Sturdivant, 18 , appeared in federal court in Charlotte. “This successful collaboration between federal and local law enforcement saved American lives from a horrific terrorist attack on New Year’s Eve,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “The Department of Justice remains vigilant in our pursuit of evil ISIS sympathizers — anyone plotting to commit such depraved attacks will face the full force of the law.” “The accused allegedly wanted to be a soldier for ISIS and made plans to commit a violent attack on New Year’s Eve in support of that terrorist group, but the FBI and our partners put a stop to that,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “It is essential to work closely with our law enforcement partners and to quickly share information about potential threats, as demonstrated in this case. The message from the FBI is clear — anyone who supports ISIS or other terrorist groups cannot hide and will be held accountable in our justice system.” “As alleged, Sturdivant aspired to become a ‘martyr’ for ISIS and was in the final stages of planning a mass-casualty attack on New Year’s Eve. Notes recovered from his home appear to reflect intent to harm as many people as possible and terrorize the Nation,” said Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg of the Justice Department's National Security Division. “We commend the extraordinary work of our partners in neutralizing this threat.” “Americans deserve to celebrate New Year’s Eve without worrying about their personal safety,” said U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson for the Western District of North Carolina. “That is why we worked non-stop to thwart this alleged violent terrorist attack. I am proud of the work done here and thankful for the time spent by law enforcement away from their families during the holidays to ensure public safety.” “The FBI’s mission is to protect the American people, and this case demonstrates our dedication to do everything we can to protect the residents of North Carolina,” said Special Agent in Charge James C. Barnacle Jr. of the FBI Charlotte Field Office. “We worked closely with the Department of Justice, NYPD, Mint Hill Police Department, and our FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force partners to investigate and disrupt this serious threat of a violent attack. We will never stop working to hold people accountable who seek to harm and terrorize our community.” “Christian Sturdivant allegedly swore allegiance to an international terrorist organization and plotted deadly attacks in its name,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch. “But the New York City Police Department has a long reach, and our undercover cybersecurity investigators once again identified threats of extremist behavior and thwarted them before they could be carried out. Public safety knows no borders, and we will continue to work with all our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to pursue and hold accountable anyone who seeks to spread fear and violence.” “Now more than ever, partnerships between law enforcement agencies are paramount,” said Chief Joseph Hatley of the Mint Hill Police Department. “This disruption is a testament to all involved, working as one to thwart an attack and hold accountable anyone planning such a horrific act of violence against our community.” According to allegations in the arrest affidavit, on Dec. 18, 2025, the FBI in Charlotte received information that an individual later identified as Sturdivant was making multiple social media posts in support of ISIS, a designated foreign terrorist organization. In early December 2025, Sturdivant posted an image depicting two miniature figurines of Jesus with the on-screen text that read, “May Allah curse the cross worshipers.” The post is allegedly consistent with ISIS’s rhetoric calling for the extermination of all non-believers, including Christians, Jews, and Muslims who do not agree with ISIS’s extreme ideology. Sturdivant’s social media post in early December 2025 The criminal complaint alleges that on or about Dec. 12, 2025, Sturdivant began communicating with an online covert employee, or “OC,” whom Sturdivant thought was an ISIS member. Sturdivant told the OC, “I will do jihad soon,” and proclaimed he was “a soldier of the state,” meaning ISIS. On Dec. 14, 2025, Sturdivant allegedly sent an online message to the OC with an image of two hammers and a knife. This is significant because an article in the 2016 issue of ISIS’s propaganda magazine promoted the use of knives to conduct terror attacks in western countries. The same article inspired actual attacks in other countries. Later, Sturdivant told the OC that he planned to attack a specific grocery store in North Carolina. Sturdivant also told the OC about his plans to purchase a firearm to use along with the knives during the attack, according to the arrest affidavit. Dec. 14, 2025, Sturdivant’s online message to undercover law enforcement with image of two hammers and a knife. In addition, on Dec. 19, 2025, Sturdivant allegedly sent the OC a voice recording of Sturdivant pledging “Bayat,” a loyalty oath to ISIS. On Dec. 29, 2025, law enforcement conducted a search warrant at Sturdivant’s residence, where they discovered handwritten documents, one of which was titled “New Years Attack 2026.” The document listed items such as a vest, mask, tactical gloves, and two knives allegedly to be used in the attack. It also described a goal of stabbing as many civilians as possible, with the total number of victims to be as high as 20 to 21. The note also included a section labeled as “martyrdom op,” that described a plan to attack police responding to the site of the attack so Sturdivant would die a martyr. Handwritten document titled “New Years Attack 2026” The complaint alleges that Sturdivant lived with a relative, who secured knives and hammers away so Sturdivant could not use them for harm. Yet, law enforcement seized from Sturdivant’s bedroom a blue hammer, a wooden handled hammer, and two butcher knives which appeared hidden underneath the defendant’s bed. These items appear to be the same as the ones depicted in the online message Sturdivant previously sent to the OC. Items seized from Sturdivant’s bedroom on Dec. 29, 2025, pursuant to a federal search warrant Law enforcement also seized from Sturdivant’s bedroom a list of targets, as well as tactical gloves and a vest, acquired as part of the defendant’s planned attack. Sturdivant remains in federal custody. If convicted, Sturdivant faces a statutory maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine the ultimate sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The investigation was conducted by the FBI Charlotte Joint Terrorism Task Force, which includes the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, the Matthews Police Department, the Monroe Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Federal Air Marshal Service, the Homeland Security Investigations, the Internal Revenue Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, with the assistance of the NYPD, additional FBI Field Offices, and the Mint Hill Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Gleason for the Western District of North Carolina and DOJ Trial Attorney Elisa Poteat with the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. The charges against the defendant are merely allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Updated January 2, 2026

Disney Agrees to $10M Civil Penalty and Injunction for Alleged Violations of Children’s Privacy Laws From The US Department of Justice January 3, 2026 The Justice Department announced today that a federal court has entered a stipulated order resolving a case against Disney Worldwide Services Inc. and Disney Entertainment Operations LLC, (collectively, Disney). The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) investigated this matter, negotiated a resolution with Disney, and referred the case to the Department. Under the order, Disney will pay $10 million in civil penalties as part of a settlement to resolve Federal Trade Commission allegations that Disney violated the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act and its implementing regulations (COPPA) in connection with Disney’s popular YouTube video content. COPPA prohibits website operators from knowingly collecting, using, or disclosing personal information from children under the age of 13 (hereinafter, children), unless they provide notice to and obtain consent from those children’s parents. In a complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, the government alleged that Disney improperly failed to designate YouTube video content as directed toward children. As a result, Disney, and others acting on Disney’s behalf, targeted advertising toward children on YouTube and unlawfully collected children’s information without parental notice and consent, in violation of COPPA. Disney’s YouTube video content is extremely popular, with billions of views in the United States alone. “The Justice Department is firmly devoted to ensuring parents have a say in how their children’s information is collected and used,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department will take swift action to root out any unlawful infringement on parents’ rights to protect their children’s privacy.” In addition to imposing a $10 million civil penalty on Disney, the stipulated order bars Disney from operating on YouTube in a manner that violates COPPA and requires Disney to create a program that will ensure it properly complies with COPPA on YouTube going forward. The United States is represented in this action by Assistant Director Zachary A. Dietert, and Trial Attorneys Zachary L. Cowan and Francisco L. Unger, from the Enforcement Section of the Civil Division’s Enforcement and Affirmative Litigation Branch. Jacqueline Ford represents the FTC.

Kielma Installing and Sighting In A New Optic Why Handgun Sighting In Is Essential for Every Responsible Shooter Gregg Kielma 01/04/2026 Gunsmith Gregg Kielma recommends spending $30–$40 (Handgun) to have a professional sight in your new or current firearm. If your shots are off target, such as low and left, let a gunsmith inspect it, it's an inexpensive way to ensure top performance. Here are my thoughts, Let’s Take a LOOK. Handguns are often marketed as “ready out of the box,” but any experienced shooter knows that true accuracy doesn’t come from assumptions — it comes from verification. Sighting in a handgun is one of the most overlooked steps in responsible firearm ownership, yet it’s one of the most important. Whether you carry daily, shoot recreationally, or train for defensive proficiency, confirming your sights is a foundational part of safety, confidence, and performance. Accuracy Starts With a Known Zero Every handgun, even from the same manufacturer and model line, can shoot slightly differently. Variations in ammunition, barrel harmonics, sight height, and shooter grip all influence point of impact. Sighting in ensures: • Your rounds land exactly where your sights indicate • You understand how your chosen ammunition performs • You eliminate guesswork in a defensive situation Kielma suggests: A verified zero is the difference between “close enough” and true precision. Equipment Changes Require Confirmation Any time you adjust or replace sights — whether installing night sights, fiber optics, red dots, or suppressor height irons — you must confirm alignment on the range. Even factory installed sights can be slightly off due to manufacturing tolerances or shipping impacts. Kielma suggests: A quick sight in session ensures your equipment is working with you, not against you. Sighting In Builds Shooter Confidence Confidence is a critical component of effective shooting. When you know your handgun is properly sighted in, you remove doubt and hesitation. That confidence translates into: • Better shot placement • Faster follow up shots • Improved decision making under stress Kielma suggests: A shooter who trusts their equipment performs at a higher level. A Key Part of Defensive Readiness In a defensive encounter, accuracy matters more than anything. You are responsible for every round fired. A handgun that hasn’t been sighted in introduces unnecessary risk — to you, your loved ones, and bystanders. Kielma suggests: A confirmed zero ensures that if you ever need your firearm to protect life, it will perform exactly as expected. Understanding Your Personal Point of Aim vs. Point of Impact Every shooter has unique biomechanics: grip strength, wrist angle, trigger press, and stance. These factors influence where rounds land. Sighting in helps you understand: • How you shoot your handgun • How your natural point of aim aligns with your sights • Whether adjustments are needed to the firearm or your technique Kielma suggests: This process is invaluable for both new shooters and seasoned professionals. Consistency and Training Go Hand in Hand Sighting in isn’t a one time task. It should be revisited when: • You change ammunition • You modify your firearm • You experience unexplained accuracy shifts • You haven’t shot the firearm in a long time Kielma suggests: Regular confirmation keeps your skills sharp and your equipment reliable. Kielma’s Parting Shot: Sighting in a handgun is more than a technical step — it’s a commitment to responsibility, accuracy, and safety. For everyday carriers, competitive shooters, and new gun owners alike, taking the time to properly sight in ensures your firearm performs exactly as intended. It’s one of the simplest ways to build confidence, improve accuracy, and uphold the standards of responsible gun ownership. Gregg Kielma

Mental Health and Firearms: A Responsible “Owner’s” Guide Gregg Kielma 01/03/2026 At Tactical K Training and Firearms , if I have concerns about a buyer who passes the background check, and something doesn’t feel right, it’s my duty to immediately report it to the ATF. In the past three years, there haven't been any incidents. If the situation is serious, I will not transfer a firearm to anyone I believe is mentally unstable. While I am not judge or jury, this is my policy to keep the public safe. Kielma says, here are my thoughts on this important subject. Agree or disagree, THIS IS MY POLICY. Let’s Take a LOOK Firearm ownership carries tremendous responsibility. Alongside safe handling, secure storage, and ongoing training, mental health is an essential part of responsible gun ownership. Understanding how emotional well-being intersects with firearm access helps protect individuals, families, and communities — and it reinforces the core values of safety and preparedness that every responsible gun owner should uphold. Why Mental Health Matters in Firearm Ownership Mental health affects judgment, awareness, and decision making. Just as physical health can impact a person’s ability to safely operate a firearm, emotional or psychological stress can influence how someone responds to pressure, conflict, or fear. Being mindful of mental health is not about stigma — it’s about preparedness. Responsible owners recognize that safety includes both the physical and emotional environment surrounding a firearm. Secure Storage Protects Everyone Safe storage is one of the most effective ways to prevent unauthorized or unsafe access. This includes: • Locking firearms in a secure safe or lockbox • Using cable or trigger locks when appropriate • Storing ammunition separately • Ensuring only trained, authorized individuals have access These practices protect children, visitors, and anyone who may be experiencing emotional distress. Recognizing When to Pause Access Life brings stress — job pressure, family conflict, grief, financial strain, or health challenges. During difficult periods, even highly trained and responsible gun owners may benefit from temporarily limiting access to their firearms. This can include: • Using additional locks • Storing firearms off site with a trusted, legally permitted individual • Utilizing storage services offered by some ranges or gun shops Taking a temporary pause is not a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of maturity, responsibility, and respect for the power of a firearm. Supporting Loved Ones Firearm owners often serve as leaders in their homes and communities. Being attentive to the mental well-being of loved ones is part of that leadership. You can help by: • Encouraging open, judgment free conversations • Recognizing signs of emotional distress • Ensuring firearms are secured when someone in the home is struggling • Guiding them toward professional support when needed A supportive environment can make a meaningful difference. Training and Education Build Confid ence Ongoing training reinforces safe habits and keeps skills sharp. At Tactical K Training and Firearms, we emphasize: • Situational awareness • De escalation • Avoidance and escape • Responsible decision making under stress These principles help ensure that firearm owners are prepared not just physically, but mentally as well. Kielma's Parting Shot: A Culture of Responsibility Responsible firearm ownership is built on a foundation of safety, education, and self-awareness. By acknowledging the role mental health plays in safe firearm handling, owners strengthen their ability to protect themselves and those around them. Promoting mental well-being is not separate from firearm safety — it is part of it. Gregg Kielma These are my thoughts and my policy.

Gregg Kielma Proud Owner of Tactical K Training and Firearms Why I Teach Avoid, Escape, and Defend — Not Killing By Gregg Kielma 01/03/2026 A Tactical K Training and Firearms and Gregg Kielma Perspective In every class I teach, I make one principle absolutely clear: the goal of self-defense is survival, not taking a life. At Tactical K Training and Firearms , my/our mission is to prepare responsible citizens to protect themselves and their loved ones with skill, confidence, and sound judgment. That mission begins with a mindset rooted in Avoid, Escape, and Defend. This approach isn’t just a teaching method — it’s a philosophy of responsible firearm ownership. Avoid: The First and Best Option The safest fight is the one you never have to be in. Avoidance is not weakness; it’s wisdom. Situational awareness, smart decision making, and recognizing danger early are the most effective tools anyone can carry. Kielma teaches his students to: • Identify potential threats before they escalate • Make choices that reduce risk • Trust their instincts and remove themselves from unsafe environments Kielma Advises: Avoidance keeps you alive, keeps you out of legal trouble, and keeps you from being forced into a situation no responsible person wants to face. Escape: When Avoidance Isn’t Enough Sometimes danger finds you even when you’ve done everything right. When that happens, the next priority is simple: get out. Escape is about: • Creating distance • Finding cover or concealment • Moving to safety as quickly as possible • Protecting others by leading them away from danger Kielma Advises: Leaving the area is not only tactically sound — it’s morally sound. Every step you take away from the threat is a step away from tragedy. Defend: The Last and Only Option Defense is never the first choice. It is the final choice — the one you make when every other option has been stripped away. I do not teach killing. I teach defending your life when you have no other reasonable alternative. If a student ever must use force, the goal is to: • Stop the threat • Survive the encounter • Stay within the law • Preserve life whenever possible Kielma Advises: Lethal force is not about taking a life — it’s about saving your own when you are left with no other option. Kielma Advises: Why This Matters There is a dangerous misconception in the world that firearms training is about aggression or violence. At Tactical K Training and Firearms , we reject that entirely. Kielma’s Students Learn: • De escalation • Judgment • Legal responsibilities • Ethical decision making • Respect for the power they carry Firearms are tools of last resort. Mindset, awareness, and preparation are tools you use every day. Kielma’s Parting Shot: A Commitment to Responsible Citizens Advises Kielma, I teach Avoid, Escape, and Defend because I want my students to go home safe — not to become heroes, vigilantes, or statistics. My goal is to empower people with the knowledge and discipline to make the right decisions under stress. At the end of the day, responsible training isn’t about taking life. It’s about preserving it. Gregg Kielma These Are My Thoughts

Concealed Carry vs. Open Carry: Understanding the Difference Gregg Kielma 1/3/26 When it comes to lawful firearm carry, two primary methods dominate the conversation: concealed carry and open carry. Both are legal in many states, but each comes with its own practical considerations, responsibilities, and advantages. Understanding the difference helps gun owners choose the method that best aligns with their lifestyle, training, and personal safety goals. Say's Gregg Kielma Owner; Tactical K Training and Firearms, Firearms Instructor, FFL, Fire Aid Instructor, and Gun Smith. Let's Take A LOOK Concealed Carry Concealed carry means the firearm is hidden from public view—typically under clothing or in a discreet holster. Benefits include: Discretion: You avoid drawing unnecessary attention or alarming others. Tactical Advantage: In a defensive situation, concealment prevents a potential threat from identifying you as an armed individual. Everyday Practicality: Ideal for those who want to blend in while maintaining personal protection. Concealed carry requires consistent training, proper holster selection, and a strong understanding of state laws. Many responsible gun owners choose this method because it prioritizes safety and minimizes public concern. Open Carry Open carry means the firearm is visible—usually holstered on the hip or chest. Benefits include: Deterrence: The visible presence of a firearm may discourage criminal behavior. Comfort: Larger firearms can be carried more easily without the need to conceal them. Accessibility: The firearm is often quicker to draw in an emergency. However, open carry can also attract attention, provoke unnecessary interactions, or make you a target in certain situations. It requires heightened situational awareness and a calm, professional demeanor. Kielma's Parting Shot: Which Is Right for You? The choice depends on your environment, comfort level, training, and local laws. Many responsible gun owners prefer concealed carry for daily life and reserve open carry for specific settings like private property, training environments, or rural areas. Regardless of the method, safety, training, and respect for the law are the foundation of responsible firearm carry. At Tactical K Training and Firearms , we emphasize informed decision‑making and skill development so every student can carry with confidence and competence. Gregg Kielma

Why People Should Stay Away from Online-Only CCW Training Gregg Kielma 1/2/26 A Tactical K Training and Firearms Perspective I often get calls from people who took CCW classes online and now need me to sign off on their range training. I’m unable to do this. For me to sign your CCW certificate, you must complete my full class , from classroom to range, as required. Here’s why. Let’s Take a LOOK Kielma says, in today’s digital world, it seems like everything can be done online — shopping, banking, even learning new skills. But when it comes to something as serious and responsibility heavy as carrying a concealed firearm, online only CCW training simply doesn’t measure up. The convenience may look appealing, but the risks far outweigh the benefits. Here’s why responsible gun owners should think twice before relying on online CCW courses. 1. No Online Course Can Replace Hands-On Firearms Instruction Firearms are physical tools that require physical skills. Safe handling, proper grip, drawing from concealment, clearing malfunctions, and understanding recoil management cannot be mastered through a screen. Online-only courses skip the most critical part of CCW training: real-world, supervised practice with a qualified instructor. At Tactical K Training and Firearms, we see firsthand how much correction, coaching, and confidence-building happens on the range — none of which can be replicated by clicking through slides. 2. Online Courses Often Provide Minimal or Outdated Information Firearm laws change. Use-of-force statutes evolve. State requirements shift. Many online CCW programs recycle the same generic content year after year, leaving students with incomplete or inaccurate legal knowledge. That’s a dangerous place to be when your freedom and future could depend on understanding the law. A legitimate CCW class should include up-to-date legal instruction, scenario discussions, and the opportunity to ask questions — not prerecorded videos with no accountability. 3. No Assessment of Your Skills or Readiness A CCW permit is not a certificate of ownership — it’s a certification of responsibility. Online-only courses cannot evaluate: • Your ability to safely handle a firearm • Your accuracy • Your judgment under stress • Your understanding of situational awareness Responsible instructors will not pass a student who demonstrates unsafe behavior. A website will. 4. Lack of Real Interaction With a Qualified Instructor One of the most valuable parts of in-person CCW training is the ability to ask questions, get clarification, and learn from real-world examples. Online courses remove that human element entirely. A good instructor doesn’t just teach — they mentor, correct, and guide. They help students understand not just how to carry, but why certain decisions matter. That level of engagement simply doesn’t exist in online-only programs. 5. Many Online CCW Courses Are Designed for Profit, Not Safety A large portion of online CCW programs are built to make money, not to build responsible gun owners. They promise fast, cheap, and easy certification — the exact opposite of what concealed carry training should be. Carrying a firearm in public is a life-altering responsibility. It deserves more than a 30-minute online quiz6. Some Online CCW Certificates Are Not Even Valid. Many states do not accept online-only training for CCW permits. Students often discover this only after paying for the course, printing their certificate, and heading to the sheriff’s office — only to be turned away. In-person training eliminates that risk entirely. Kielma’s Parting Shot: Your Safety Deserves Better Online CCW training may seem convenient, but it cannot deliver the depth, accountability, or hands-on experience required to carry a firearm responsibly. A CCW permit isn’t just a piece of paper — it’s a commitment to safety, skill, and sound judgment. At Tactical K Training and Firearms, we believe every student deserves real instruction, real coaching, and real confidence. That only happens face-to-face, on the range, with a qualified professional who puts safety above convenience. If you want to carry, train the right way — the responsible way Train with Tactical K Training and Firearms today. Gregg Kielma

Understanding Mass Shootings: A Safety Focused Perspective Gregg Kielma 1/1/26 This is a very difficult subject for me to write or comment about. Due to the sensitive nature of this article, please be advised that mass shooting incidents do occur. We need to understand why and work together to stop senseless killings. I’ll have more thoughts on this in future articles. If you own a business, please give me a call and we can set up our training for your company and staff. Kielma says, Let’s Take a LOOK Mass shootings are tragic events that raise difficult questions, and many people look for simple explanations. The reality is more complex. These incidents rarely stem from a single cause; instead, they emerge when several risk factors overlap. By understanding these patterns, we can focus on awareness, prevention, and responsible safety practices. Most research points to a combination of personal crisis, unresolved grievances, and a desire for recognition as common drivers behind these attacks. Many perpetrators experience a period of emotional instability or hopelessness leading to the event. While mental health struggles alone do not predict violence, untreated distress combined with social isolation can increase risk. Access to firearms during a moment of crisis is another factor that can turn harmful intent into harmful action. It’s also important to recognize the role of cultural and social dynamics. Polarization, alienation, and the breakdown of support systems can contribute to the environment in which these events occur. Media attention can unintentionally create a copycat effect, where individuals identify with previous attackers and seek similar notoriety. At Tactical K Training and Firearms, our focus is not on fear — it’s on preparedness, responsibility, and education. Understanding the factors behind mass shootings helps individuals and communities recognize warning signs, promote responsible firearm storage, support those in crisis, and build safer environments. Knowledge empowers us to take meaningful steps toward prevention while reinforcing the values of responsible firearm ownership.

The Why You Should Take Care of and Clean Your Firearm Gregg Kielma 01/01/2026 Note: Gregg Kielma owner of Tactical K Training and Firearms; I'm working on writing clearer, more concise articles for my family, clients, and friends who visit this blog. My goal is to present polished heart felt, professional content. This year, I'll be inviting guest authors from the firearms industry to share insights and perspectives on topics that matter most to my readers. If your gun has be neglected, please give us a call. Whether it's a minor tune up or deep clean in our ultrasonic cleaner we can get you firearm back to functioning properly. Take care of your firearm and it will take care of you. Let’s Take a LOOK at Firearm care, my thoughts and Reasons for WHY! Kielma advises, owning a firearm is more than a right, it’s a responsibility. Whether you carry daily, train regularly, or keep a firearm for home defense, proper care and maintenance are essential. A well maintained firearm isn’t just cleaner or nicer to look at; it’s safer, more reliable, and far more capable of performing when you need it most. Responsible ownership begins with understanding why firearm care matters. 1. Reliability When It Counts: A firearm is a mechanical tool, and like any tool, it must be kept in proper working order. Carbon buildup, fouling, and debris can cause malfunctions that range from inconvenient to dangerous. Regular cleaning and inspection ensure your firearm cycles smoothly, chambers properly, and fires consistently — exactly what you expect from a life saving tool. Sources show that residue from ammunition can affect accuracy and reliability if not cleaned regularly and built-up debris can impede operation and reduce performancekwickstrike.com. 2. Safety for You and Those Around You: A neglected firearm is a safety hazard. Malfunctions such as misfires, failures to eject, or out of battery conditions can create dangerous situations for the shooter and anyone nearby. Routine maintenance helps prevent these issues and reinforces safe handling habits. Experts emphasize that proper maintenance reduces the risk of jams, misfires, and unintended consequences. 3. Protecting Your Investment Firearms are long term investments: Moisture, dirt, and corrosion can damage internal components and shorten the lifespan of your firearm. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and proper storage protect your equipment and preserve its value. Firearms that sit unused still accumulate moisture and residue that can lead to permanent damage if ignored. 4. Better Accuracy and Performance: A clean barrel and well-maintained action directly impact accuracy. Fouling can alter bullet trajectory, affect grouping, and reduce consistency. When your firearm is properly maintained, you get the performance you paid for — and the precision you train for. 5. Reinforcing Responsible Ownership: Taking care of your firearm is part of being a responsible gun owner. It demonstrates respect for the tool, commitment to safety, and dedication to skill development. Maintenance isn’t just a chore; it’s part of the discipline that separates casual owners from true professionals. Organizations emphasize that clean, well-maintained firearms are safer and more reliable, and that proper maintenance is a core part of responsible gun ownership. 6. Building Familiarity and Confidence: Regular cleaning and inspection help you understand your firearm inside and out. You learn how it functions, how parts wear, and how to identify issues before they become problems. This familiarity builds confidence — something every shooter benefits from, whether on the range or in a defensive situation. Kielma’s Parting Shot Caring for your firearm isn’t optional — it’s essential. Reliability, safety, longevity, and performance all depend on consistent maintenance. At Tactical K Training and Firearms, we emphasize that responsible ownership begins long before you step onto the range. When you take care of your firearm, it will take care of you.