2026 Firearm Prices Are Up 10–20% Depending On Manufacture An Explanation from Gregg Kielma-Tactical K Training and Firearms As someone who lives and breathes this industry every single day—both as an FFL and as a firearms instructor—I pay close attention to the trends that affect responsible gun owners. When prices jump 10–20% in a single year, people notice. Students ask me about it on the range, customers ask about it during transfers, and families ask about it when they’re trying to budget for their first defensive firearm. Here’s the straight, practical breakdown of why firearm prices have climbed, and what it means for everyday gun owners. 1. Manufacturing Costs Are Up Across the Board Firearms are machines built to extremely tight tolerances. When the cost of raw materials rises—steel, aluminum, polymers, machining components—manufacturers feel it immediately. Over the last year: • Steel prices increased • Precision machining costs rose • Shipping and freight costs jumped When the cost of building a firearm goes up, the final price inevitably follows. 2. Labor Shortages and Skilled Work Demand Firearms manufacturing isn’t an entry level job. It requires skilled machinists, quality control techs, and experienced assembly workers. Many companies have had to raise wages to attract and retain talent. That cost gets baked into the final product. 3. Increased Demand from New Gun Owners Every year, more Americans decide to take responsibility for their own safety. That’s a good thing. But higher demand—especially for handguns, AR platform rifles, and carry pistols—puts pressure on supply. When demand outpaces production, prices rise. 4. Regulatory Pressure and Compliance Costs Whether people agree with the politics or not, the reality is this: Every new rule, form, compliance requirement, or manufacturing standard costs companies money. From serialization requirements to shipping restrictions to background check system changes, manufacturers and distributors spend more time and money staying compliant. Those costs don’t disappear—they get passed on. 5. Supply Chain Disruptions Haven’t Fully Recovered COVID-era disruptions never fully settled. Some specialty parts—springs, barrels, optics components—still face delays. When a single part is delayed, entire production lines slow down. Slower production means fewer guns on shelves, which means higher prices. 6. Brand Competition Has Shifted Companies like SIG, Smith & Wesson, Glock, and Ruger have invested heavily in R&D. Optics-ready slides, modular frames, improved triggers, and better ergonomics all cost money to develop. The modern pistol is far more advanced than what we saw 10 years ago. Innovation raises quality—but it also raises price. 7. Insurance, Liability, and Operational Costs This is the part most people never see. Manufacturers, distributors, and FFLs all face rising insurance premiums and operational costs. Liability coverage for anything firearm-related has skyrocketed. That cost trickles down through the entire supply chain. What This Means for Responsible Gun Owners Price increases aren’t a sign of the industry collapsing—they’re a sign of an industry adapting to economic pressure, regulatory changes, and increased demand. For the everyday gun owner, it means: • Budgeting a little more for quality • Buying once, crying once • Maintaining what you already own • Training is becoming even more valuable than gear A well-trained shooter with a reliable firearm is always more effective than someone chasing the newest model. Kielma’s Parting Shot: My Advice as an Instructor and FFL If you’re planning to buy: • Buy sooner rather than later—prices rarely go backward • Focus on proven platforms • Invest in training before accessories • Take care of the firearms you already own And as always, stay informed, stay responsible, and stay prepared. That’s what separates a gun owner from a protector. Gregg Kielma

Transporting Firearms: What Are the Rules? By Gregg Kielma, Owner & Lead Instructor, Tactical K Training and Firearms Transporting a firearm—whether it’s across town or across the country, it should never be a guessing game. As responsible gun owners, we owe it to ourselves, our families, and our communities to understand the laws that govern how firearms must be moved from point A to point B. The rules aren’t complicated, but they are specific, and failing to follow them can turn an ordinary trip into a legal headache. This is the guidance I give every student who trains with me. 1. Know the Difference Between Carrying and Transporting Carrying a firearm means it’s on your person or readily accessible. Transporting means it’s stored in a way that is not immediately accessible. Why does this matter? Because the law treats these two situations very differently. Even if you have a valid concealed carry permit, some states do not honor it. When you cross into those states, you are no longer “carrying”—you must be “transporting.” 2. Federal Law: The Safe Passage Provision Under the Firearm Owners Protection Act (FOPA), federal law protects lawful gun owners traveling through states with restrictive laws—as long as you follow the transport rules: • Firearm must be unloaded • Firearm must be in a locked container • Ammunition must be stored separately • Neither firearm nor ammo can be readily accessible (trunk is ideal) This protection applies only when you are traveling from one lawful location to another. It does not protect you if you stop for sightseeing, overnight stays, or unnecessary detours in restrictive states. 3. State Laws Vary—A Lot Every state has its own rules on: • Whether your permit is recognized • How firearms must be stored in a vehicle • Whether long guns and handguns are treated differently • Whether ammo must be separate • Whether a locked case is required • Whether the firearm must be visible or concealed inside the vehicle Some states are extremely permissive. Others are extremely strict. Never assume your home-state rules apply anywhere else. 4. Best Practices for Vehicle Transport Even when the law is flexible, I teach my students to follow the safest, most universally accepted method: • Unload the firearm • Place it in a locked hard case • Store the case in the trunk or rear cargo area • Keep ammunition in a separate container • Keep your carry permit and ID accessible • Avoid unnecessary handling of the firearm during travel These steps keep you compliant in nearly every jurisdiction and demonstrate responsible intent if questioned. 5. Air Travel: TSA Rules If you’re flying, the rules are federal and very clear: • Firearm must be unloaded • Firearm must be in a hard-sided, locked case • Only you retain the key or combination • Declare the firearm at the airline counter • Ammunition must be in factory packaging or a proper ammo box Never attempt to check a firearm in a soft case or carry it through security. TSA does not play around with this. 6. Moving to a New State Transporting firearms during a move is legal, but once you arrive, you must comply with that state’s laws. Some states require: • Registration • Waiting periods • Magazine restrictions • Specific storage requirements If you’re relocating, research the laws before you arrive—not after. 7. Documentation Matters I always recommend keeping: • Your carry permit • A copy of FOPA’s Safe Passage provision • Proof of your destination (hotel reservation, training class, hunting license, etc.) If you’re ever questioned, documentation helps demonstrate lawful purpose. Kielma’s Parting Shot Transporting a firearm responsibly is part of being a responsible gun owner. The rules aren’t meant to intimidate you, they’re meant to keep you safe, compliant, and confident. When in doubt, follow the strictest standard: unloaded, locked, separate, and inaccessible. Gregg Kielma

Red flags in gun shops: Phrases that signal you should walk away Gregg Kielma Walking into a gun shop should feel professional, transparent, and safety focused. Responsible dealers understand that firearms are serious tools that require knowledge, proper handling, and honest communication. Unfortunately, not every shop follows the same standards. Some rely on aggressive sales tactics, vague claims, or misleading advice to push a purchase. In many cases, the warning signs appear in the words a salesperson uses. Certain phrases can reveal poor knowledge, unsafe attitudes, or even questionable business practices. Recognizing these red flags can help you avoid buying unreliable equipment or receiving bad guidance. Paying attention to what staff members say and how they say it can tell you a lot about whether a shop deserves your trust. Everyone Buys This One. You Don’t Need to Research It A trustworthy gun dealer encourages customers to research, compare options, and choose what fits their needs. When a salesperson insists that “everyone buys this one,” it can be a sign they are more focused on making a quick sale than providing useful advice. Firearms vary widely in size, recoil, ergonomics, and purpose. What works well for one person may be uncomfortable or impractical for another. A responsible shop will ask questions about your experience level, intended use, and preferences before recommending a product. When staff dismiss the importance of research or push a single model as the obvious choice, it suggests limited expertise or an attempt to move inventory rather than guide customers toward the best decision. This Gun Never Has Problems No mechanical device is completely free from the possibility of malfunction. Firearms, like any complex equipment, require maintenance and responsible use. When a salesperson claims that a particular gun “never has problems,” it should raise immediate suspicion. Honest dealers usually discuss both the strengths and limitations of a product. They may mention reliability, but they also acknowledge that regular cleaning, proper ammunition, and safe handling are essential. Absolute statements often indicate exaggeration or a lack of technical understanding. A knowledgeable professional will explain realistic expectations and maintenance requirements instead of promising perfection. If someone dismisses all potential issues, it may suggest they are prioritizing sales over providing accurate information. You Don’t Need Training to Use This Any firearm requires a basic level of training and safety awareness. When a shop employee suggests that a gun can be used safely without proper instruction, it reflects a concerning attitude toward responsibility. Firearms demand careful handling, familiarity with safety rules, and an understanding of local laws. Ethical dealers often encourage first-time buyers to take safety courses or spend time at a shooting range before relying on a firearm. They may even recommend professional instruction. Dismissing the need for training sends the message that the shop values convenience over safety. A reputable store understands that informed owners are safer owners, and it should actively support education rather than minimizing its importance. The Laws Don’t Really Matter Here. Any suggestion that firearm laws are unimportant or easily ignored should be treated as a major warning sign. Responsible gun shops operate with strict attention to regulations, background checks, and documentation requirements. When someone casually dismisses these rules, it may indicate questionable business practices or a lack of respect for legal responsibilities. Firearm laws exist to promote safety and accountability, and legitimate dealers take them seriously. A trustworthy salesperson will clearly explain the legal process involved in purchasing and owning a firearm. If an employee implies that regulations are optional or suggests shortcuts, it is wise to leave immediately. Shops that disregard the law can place customers in serious legal trouble. You Won’t Find a Better Price Anywhere Competitive pricing is common in the firearms market, but absolute claims about unbeatable deals should be approached with caution. When a salesperson insists that you will not find a better price anywhere, it may be an attempt to pressure you into buying quickly without comparing options. Reliable dealers understand that informed customers often check multiple sources before making a purchase. They may explain why their price is competitive, or highlight included services such as warranties or support. However, they rarely discourage customers from doing their own research. High-pressure pricing tactics can indicate insecurity about the product or a desire to close the sale before the buyer has time to think carefully. You Don’t Need to Handle It First Comfort and fit are critical when choosing a firearm. A responsible shop allows customers to safely handle a firearm following proper safety procedures so they can evaluate its grip, weight, and balance. If a salesperson discourages this step or claims it is unnecessary, it suggests a lack of concern for customer experience. Firearms that feel awkward or poorly balanced in the hand may be difficult to control or use confidently. Knowledgeable dealers encourage buyers to handle multiple options to find the best fit. Preventing customers from doing so can signal impatience, poor service, or even an attempt to hide flaws in the product being sold. Maintenance Is Basically Unnecessary Firearms require regular maintenance to remain reliable and safe. Cleaning, proper lubrication, and periodic inspection help prevent malfunctions and extend the life of the equipment. When a salesperson claims that maintenance is unnecessary or minimal, it often reflects misinformation. Experienced gun owners know that even high-quality firearms need care after regular use. Dust, residue from ammunition, and environmental factors can affect performance over time. Responsible dealers usually explain basic maintenance routines and may even recommend cleaning supplies or instructional resources. Downplaying the importance of upkeep suggests either a lack of technical knowledge or an attempt to simplify the purchase conversation at the expense of accuracy. This Is the Only Gun You’ll Ever Need Firearms serve many different purposes, from sport shooting to hunting to personal protection. Because of these varied uses, no single model can truly meet every possible need. When a salesperson insists that one firearm is the only one a person will ever need, it can signal oversimplified sales tactics. A knowledgeable dealer typically discusses how different firearms perform in different situations. They may explain why certain models are better suited for specific tasks or user preferences. Claiming that one option solves every scenario ignores the complexity of firearm design and personal comfort. Such statements often reveal marketing language rather than genuine expertise. Trust Me, You Don’t Need the Details Transparency is a hallmark of a reputable gun shop. Customers should feel comfortable asking questions about specifications, safety features, warranties, and the manufacturer’s reputation. When a salesperson discourages questions or suggests that details are unnecessary, it undermines trust. Firearm purchases involve significant responsibility, and buyers deserve complete information before deciding. Knowledgeable staff members typically enjoy explaining how a firearm works and what makes it suitable for certain uses. Dismissing questions may indicate impatience, limited knowledge, or a desire to avoid discussing weaknesses. If a dealer avoids providing clear information, it is often a sign that you would be better off purchasing from a more transparent retailer.

Backstop 75' Across Will Accommodate 8 Shooters 150 Yard Outdoor Range Built for Real Training Gregg Kielma Opening my new 150 yard outdoor range marks an important step forward for Tactical K Training and Firearms and for every student who trains with me. This private range was built with a single purpose in mind: to give shooters a safe, private, and realistic environment where they can grow their skills with confidence. Set on quiet farm pasture in Parrish Florida, the range offers the kind of space and calm you simply can’t get at crowded public facilities. The open terrain, natural backstops, and controlled layout allow for true practical instruction—from foundational marksmanship to more advanced drills that require distance, movement, and real-world context. At 150 yards, the range supports everything from handgun fundamentals to rifle zeroing, precision work, and defensive carbine training. Students can finally experience what proper distance feels like, how their equipment performs, and how to apply solid technique under guidance rather than guesswork. Safety remains the backbone of everything we do. Every session is structured, supervised, and tailored to the individual. Whether someone is brand new or sharpening advanced skills, they get focused instruction without distractions, noise, or pressure from other shooters. It’s a place where learning is personal, calm, and effective. This new range isn’t just more space—it’s a better training experience. It reflects the values Tactical K Training and Firearms was built on: responsible ownership, practical skill development, and a commitment to helping people feel capable and prepared. Gregg Kielma

Gun Store Owner Indicted for Conspiracy and Attempting to Provide Material Support to Designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations Wednesday, March 25, 2026 U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Arizona PHOENIX, Ariz. – The owner of Grips By Larry, a former federal firearms licensee (FFL) was indicted last week on charges related to providing material support to Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion (“CJNG”) and Cartel de Sinaloa (“CDS”), Mexican cartels that were designated as foreign terrorist organizations in 2025. On March 17, 2026, a federal grand jury in Phoenix returned a superseding indictment against Laurence Gray, 65, of Hereford, Arizona, for Attempting to Provide Material Support to a Foreign Terrorist Organization and Conspiracy to Provide Support to a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization. Gray was arraigned on the indictment in federal court today. Gray, the owner of Grips by Larry, a federally licensed firearms dealer in Arizona, was previously indicted for firearms trafficking offenses in 2025, alongside a second individual, Barrett Weinberger, 73, of Tucson, Arizona. The original charges against both men included trafficking in firearms, aiding and abetting the straw purchasing of firearms, and aiding and abetting material false statements during the purchase of a firearm. In addition to more firearms charges, last week’s superseding indictment added material support to terrorism charges against Gray. The indictment alleges that Gray knowingly attempted to provide firearms to CJNG in May of 2025, and knowingly conspired to provide firearms to both CJNG and CDS that same year. Both cartels were designated by the U.S. Secretary of State as foreign terrorist organizations pursuant to Section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act on Feb. 20, 2025. Convictions for Conspiracy to and Attempting to Provide Material Support to a Designated Terrorist Organization each carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. A conviction for Trafficking in Firearms carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. A conviction for Aiding and Abetting the Straw Purchase of Firearms carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. A conviction for Aiding and Abetting a Material False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. 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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marcus Shand, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution. An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. CASE NUMBER: CR-25-00835-PHX-DJH RELEASE NUMBER: 2026-049_Weinberger, et al. # # # Contact Public Affairs Lennea Montandon Telephone: (602) 514-7542 Lennea.Montandon@usdoj.gov Updated March 25, 2026

2025: Best of CGIC Award Recipients ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence Center (CGIC) of Chicago hosted its 2025 Year in Review meeting with partner agency executives. At the conclusion of the meeting, ATF Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon, joined by each awardee’s agency head, presented this year’s 2025: Best of CGIC awards to individuals who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the pursuit of justice and the mission of the Crime Gun Intelligence Center of Chicago. Below are this year’s award recipients: From Tactical K Training and Firearms, well done, congratulations to all. Officer Patrick Fahey Jr. CGIC of Chicago Investigator of the Year Intelligence Research Specialist Daniel P. Golden CGIC of Chicago Intelligence Research Specialist of the Year Legal Assistant Denise Descamp Exceptional Organizational Leadership and Commitment to the Mission of the CGIC of Chicago Supervisory Legal Assistant Kristin Golfis Exceptional Organizational Leadership and Commitment to the Mission of the CGIC of Chicago Assistant U.S. Attorney William Dunne CGIC of Chicago Prosecutor of the Year Assistant State's Attorney Anne Kelly CGIC of Chicago Prosecutor of the Year Deputy Chief Andrew Whitfield CGIC of Chicago Prosecutor of the Year ATF is the lead federal law enforcement agency with jurisdiction involving firearms and violent crimes. More information about ATF and its programs is available at www.atf.gov. Headquarters

Parrish Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Setting Rental Van on Fire at Bradenton Motel Wednesday, March 25, 2026 U.S. Attorney's Office, Middle District of Florida Tampa, Florida – Kendarius Devonta Stitten (26, Parrish Florida) pleaded guilty today to a violation of the federal Anti-Arson Act. Stitten faces a minimum penalty of 5 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court records, on March 20, 2025, Stitten used a lighter and a t-shirt to set a van on fire in a motel parking lot in Bradenton. A couple from Oregon had rented the van from Tampa International Airport. The fire damaged the van, as shown in the picture below: Stitten admitted to federal and state investigators that he had set the van on fire because he thought it belonged to a female acquaintance who failed to show up to a planned meeting at a room at the motel. 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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Bureau of Fire, Arson, and Explosives Investigations, and Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam W. McCall. Updated March 25, 2026

Gainesville Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Possession of a Homemade Silencer Friday, March 27, 2026 U.S. Attorney's Office, Northern District of Florida Gainesville, Florida – Dean Allen Harper, 55, of Gainesville, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of an unmarked and unregistered silencer, which qualifies as a firearm under federal law. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I deeply appreciate the excellent investigative work of our state and federal law enforcement partners to remove dangerous, armed criminals from our streets. My office will continue to back up their hard work on the front lines with aggressive prosecutions under the Department of Justice’s Operation Take Back America initiative to keep our communities safe from violent criminals.” Court documents reflect that on November 21, 2025, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle Harper was driving. The vehicle that contained numerous firearms, ammunition, methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia. In total, Harper was in possession of two rifles, two pistols, multiple magazines, and numerous rounds of ammunition, including armor-piercing ammunition. One of the pistols also had an automotive oil filter converted into a homemade suppressor/silencer attached to its barrel: The threaded barrel had an aftermarket attachment which allowed the oil filter to be attached. The homemade silencer did not have a serial number and was not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. At sentencing, the defendant faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a $10,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for June 16, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor. The case involved an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit Contact United States Attorney’s Office Northern District of Florida USAFLN.Press.Office@usdoj.gov X: @USAO_NDFL Updated March 27, 2026

Federal Judge Rejects Trump DOJ Motion To Gut Ruling Striking Down Post Office Carry Ban We reported back in November that, after a federal court ruled the ban on carrying firearms in post offices unconstitutional, the Department of Justice (DOJ) filed a motion to significantly limit the scope of the injunction. In the case Firearms Policy Coalition Inc. v. Bondi, the court ruled on September 30: “The Court determines that both 18 U.S.C. § 930(a) and 39 C.F.R. § 232.1(1) are inconsistent with the principles that underpin this Nation’s regulatory tradition. Thus, they are unconstitutional as applied to carrying firearms inside an ordinary post office or on post office property.” Unsatisfied with the ruling, the DOJ immediately filed a motion to limit the scope of the injunction to only the named individual plaintiffs and to members of SAF and its partner organizations who were members when the complaint was originally filed and who have been identified and verified. That, of course, prompted both the Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) and Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) to fight back, filing a brief countering the federal government’s request. On March 17, a District Court judge in Texas ruled in favor of the two organizations and their partners, confirming that all current and future members are covered by the injunction in the case, which bars enforcement of the post office carry ban at most ordinary locations.