Gregory Kielma • June 18, 2023
Armed self-defense Good Read Tale a look
Pro-gun groups on the right have for years promoted the right to armed self-defense and warned of pervasive threats. Experts and critics say the recent shootings of innocent people are the consequence.
Ringing the wrong doorbell, pulling into the wrong driveway, accidentally getting in the wrong car: Mundane, everyday mistakes ended in the shootings of several young people – and the death of one of them – last month when the men on the receiving end of the errors reached for their firearms and decided to shoot.
The shootings captured public attention nationwide, breaking through the unfortunate white noise of pervasive gun violence for their brazenness and similarities. They have reignited the fight over so-called “stand your ground” laws expanding the legal protections around self-defense. And critics, too, have pointed to the incidents as the natural end result of a society flooded with firearms.
But experts and gun control advocates say the shootings are a symptom of a much broader cause: the proliferation of rhetoric on the pro-gun right and among conservatives in general about persistent, pervasive threats, danger and crime, and also of guns as the only means of personal safety against the criminals that lurk around every corner.
“For seven years, all of us here today have been engaged in an epic struggle against the corrupt forces and communist maniacs – and they’re all over the place – that are absolutely trying to destroy our country,” former President Donald Trump said this month in a speech at the National Rifle Association’s annual meeting. “They want to take away your guns while throwing open the jailhouse doors and releasing bloodthirsty criminals into your communities.”
Wayne LaPierre, the embattled chief executive officer of the pro-gun organization, expressed similar sentiments.
“You don’t need the government to tell you the sky is blue, water’s wet or that you have the God-given right to self-defense,” he said.
‘This Could Happen to Anybody’
In Kansas City, Missouri, Ralph Yarl, a Black teenager, rang the wrong doorbell on April 13 while trying to pick up his siblings from a friend’s house. The octogenarian homeowner inside the house shot Yarl in the head in what he said was self-defense, in an action prosecutors say had a “racial component.” Two days later in upstate New York, a car full of young people pulled into the wrong driveway while looking for another friend’s house. The homeowner shot at the car from the porch. Twenty-year-old Kaylin Gillis died. And just days after that, a man shot two teenage cheerleaders in Elgin, Texas, after one of them tried to get into his car by accident, thinking it was her ride. She realized her mistake, exited the car and tried to apologize. But the man opened fire. Yarl’s shooting made headlines in part because it highlighted issues relating to race, and public attention quickly turned to the other shootings in the days after. Though the U.S. experiences gun violence at the highest rate of any developed nation, the shootings broke through the news cycle in part because they easily inspired empathy.
Gun Control and Gun Rights Cartoons
“This could happen to anybody. I mean, there was a racial factor involved in at least one of these. But beyond that, it's just like, this could happen to me or this could happen to my kid,” says Michael Lawlor, an associate professor of criminal justice at the University of New Haven and a former member of the Connecticut House of Representatives. Lawlor, a Democrat, also served as the state’s undersecretary for criminal justice policy.
Focus turned, then, on Missouri’s “stand your ground” law, which is like a law of the same name that is in place in Texas. Gun rights advocates have pushed for years to enact the measures, which expand protections around the use of force when acting in self-defense. Under the law, a person has the right to use deadly force when acting in self-defense anywhere they have a legal right to be, and without first retreating – in other words, using force does not have to be a last resort. The laws burst onto the public debate stage in 2012, when Florida police noted it as the reason they refused to arrest George Zimmerman, who fatally shot Trayvon Martin, a Black unarmed teenager. Zimmerman was later charged and then acquitted.
New York has a similar, albeit more limited, law called the “castle doctrine” that allows for use of force by a person defending their own home – or castle, so to speak. And the passage of “stand your ground” laws has happened in concert with a focused emphasis by the pro-gun right on crime, threats, and self-defense. While promoting firearms as a tool for self-defense is not a new idea, the expansion of laws allowing for use of deadly force may contribute to a climate where gun owners are more ready to do so, says Matthew Lacombe, an associate professor of political science at Case Western University who specializes in gun politics, the NRA and political ideology.
“The NRA narrative that you might use guns for armed self-defense is not new. What is newer is liberalization of particularly state-level laws pertaining to how, when and why you can use lethal force to defend yourself,” Lacombe says.
The men who perpetrated the recent shootings will likely not be covered under such laws, Lacombe notes. But in a wider context, “it's probably the case that the general shift legally has encouraged more and more people to think about self-defense in these terms, encouraged more people to buy guns specifically for self-defense purposes, and in some ways emboldened them in terms of what they see as a reasonable use of them,” he says. The NRA Institute for Legislative Action, which has championed the laws, did not respond to a request for comment about the recent shootings and self-defense laws.
Politicians and advocates for more restrictive gun control laws have pointed the finger at “stand your ground” laws for such an embodiment.
“I think we now have a shoot-first, ask-later policy in this state – or at least that is what people have interpreted it to be,” Missouri state Rep. Maggie Nurrenbern, a Democrat, was quoted by The Kansas City Star as saying in the wake of Yarl’s shooting. Nurrenbern introduced a measure in the legislature earlier this year to limit the state’s law, but the bill went nowhere. The context around the laws, including a focus on firearms as a means for self-defense as opposed to other uses, Lacombe says, is critical for understanding what effect they may have on society.
“It's not just the laws, it's also the sort of marketing campaigns and rhetoric surrounding the laws, which I think have increasingly turned the gun-rights space into one focused on armed self-defense specifically, as opposed to other uses of guns,” Lacombe says.
Part of that context also includes a pervasive narrative pushed by pro-gun advocates and the NRA that has intertwined gun rights and core values like freedom, making expansive gun rights a core part of the conservative ideology – even identity. “Owning a gun isn't just having an object that you might use for recreation or self-defense, but it's more of a sort of symbol of who you are and what you stand for. And part of that relates to self-sufficiency,” Lacombe says of the narrative. “We think of self-sufficiency as being politically coded – you know, ‘I don't need handouts’ – but it's also in recent years come to even involve notions of protection.”
Fear and Freedom
Republicans have in recent years emphasized crime and threats in their electoral messaging around – a threat they say is posed by an “invasion” of illegal immigration, the threat posed by criminals emboldened by Democrats’ soft-on-crime policies, the threat of eroding rights and norms.
“The sinister forces trying to kill America have done everything they can to stop me, to silence you, and to turn this nation into a socialist dumping ground for criminals, junkies, Marxists, thugs, radicals and dangerous refugees that no other country wants,” Trump told the crowd at the Conservative Political Action Conference earlier this year. “If those opposing us succeed, our once-beautiful USA will be a failed country that no one will even recognize – a lawless, open-borders, crime-ridden, filthy, communist nightmare.”
Trump is considered the current front-runner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. His comments echo narratives threaded through many right-leaning news and commentary shows and other forms of media, as well as the electoral strategies of other candidates.
Fear is an old and effective political motivator, experts say, and that motivation was also on display at the NRA’s annual meeting earlier this month, with speeches replete with warnings about self-defense, crime and protecting freedoms from those who want to take it away by force.
“Threat is a pretty powerful motivator, so associating support for gun rights with addressing different types of threats is something that historically has worked pretty well for the NRA,” Lacombe says.
Lawlor, the criminal justice professor, and former state legislator, describes fear and threat as a “political business model” that shifts and changes in topic over the years but remains a pervasive strategy.
“In 2004, the presidential election was all about gay marriage. Right now, it’s all about drag queens. A couple of cycles ago, it was all about immigrant caravans. There is always something that can be that thing that everyone should fear,” Lawlor says. “And so, we're back to crime now. That's where we are now – that you should be scared that someone's going to steal your car or break into your house.”
Though crime rates vary by city, the violent crime rate in the U.S. overall has plummeted since the 1990s, when gang violence associated with an epidemic of crack cocaine fueled urban homicide rates. In fact, violent crime rates have been slashed by more than half – though polling shows that Americans believe the number has gone up, despite the data.
The result of threat-based rhetoric, Lawlor argues, can be what happened in Missouri – a senior citizen “who's watching Fox News all day with the volume all the way on max, has a gun, of course, to protect themselves, and he's been told that sooner or later, some Black guy is going to show and try and kill you or break into your house or whatever.”
‘There's a 16-year-old kid knocking on his door by mistake, and – boom, right? So this outcome is predictable,” he says.
Gregg Kielma: A Dedicated Leader in Firearms Training and Personal Protection By Steve Smith 12/20/25 Gregg Kielma has built a respected reputation in the world of firearms education, personal protection, and responsible gun ownership. As the owner of Tactical K Training and Firearms, Kielma brings more than three decades of experience in concealed carry, shooting sports, and self-defense instruction to students across the United States. Kielma is a USCCA certified instructor with credentials spanning decades in concealed carry and home defense, countering the mass shooter threat, children’s firearms safety, women’s firearm self-defense, range safety operations, real estate agent safety, first aid fundamentals instructor to include CPR/Defibrillator, range safety officer/trainer, electronic control device instructor, prepping for survival, security consultant home and business, FAA drone pilot and is an outdoor range operator. His broad certification portfolio reflects a commitment to empowering individuals and families with practical, lifesaving skills. Beyond instruction, Kielma is also an FFL dealer, a professional engineer /project manager, and an experienced gunsmith, adding technical depth to his training programs. His background includes expert marksmanship and drone piloting, further demonstrating the diverse skill set he brings to the firearms community. Students and clients consistently note his professionalism, patience, and ability to translate complex safety principles into clear, actionable guidance. Whether working with first time gun owners or seasoned shooters, Gregg Kielma’s mission remains the same: to promote safe, confident, and responsible firearm handling.
Purchasing a Firearm: A Responsible Buyer’s Guide By Gregg Kielma FFL- Firearms Instructor- Gunsmith- First Aid Fundamentals Instructor Buying a firearm is a significant decision—one that carries legal, ethical, and safety responsibilities. Whether someone is purchasing their first firearm or adding to an existing collection, approaching the process with preparation and awareness ensures a safer and more confident experience. Understand Your Purpose Before stepping into a gun shop, it helps to be clear about why you want a firearm. Common reasons include: • Home or personal protection • Hunting or sport shooting • Collecting historical or specialty firearms Your purpose will influence the type, size, caliber, and features that make sense for you. Know the Law Firearm laws vary by state and sometimes even by county or municipality. Buyers should familiarize themselves with: • Eligibility requirements • Background check procedures • Waiting periods (if applicable) • Storage and transportation laws • Any required permits or training Understanding the legal landscape ensures compliance and prevents accidental violations. Choose a Reputable Dealer Purchasing from a licensed firearms dealer provides several advantages: • Assurance that the firearm is legally transferred • Access to knowledgeable staff • Proper documentation and background checks • Opportunities to handle different models before buying A good dealer will answer questions without pressure and help match the buyer with the right firearm. Handle and Evaluate Firearms When examining a firearm in person, pay attention to: • Ergonomics and comfort • Weight and balance • Sight picture • Trigger feel • Overall build quality A firearm should feel natural and controllable. If it doesn’t, it’s not the right fit. Prioritize Training and Safety Owning a firearm is only part of the equation. Responsible ownership includes: • Taking certified safety courses • Practicing regularly at a range • Learning safe storage methods • Understanding how to maintain the firearm Training builds confidence and reduces the risk of accidents. Secure Storage Safe storage protects both the owner and others in the household. Options include: • Lockable gun safes • Quick access lockboxes • Cable or trigger locks The goal is to prevent unauthorized access while still allowing the owner to access the firearm responsibly. Gregg Kielma FFL- Firearms Instructor- Gunsmith- First Aid Fundamentals Instructor
ATF Building Washington DC The ATF: A Quiet Force Protecting Communities, My Thoughts By Gregg Kielma When most people think about public safety, they picture local police departments or federal agencies with high-profile missions. Yet one agency works steadily behind the scenes, tackling some of the most complex threats to American communities: the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Though often operating without fanfare, the ATF plays a vital role in safeguarding the public, supporting law enforcement partners, and ensuring that legal industries operate responsibly. A Mission Rooted in Public Safety The ATF’s core mission is straightforward but essential: protect the public from violent crime. Its responsibilities span several areas that directly impact everyday life: • Combating firearms trafficking and violent crime • Investigating arson and explosives incidents • Regulating the firearms and explosives industries • Ensuring compliance in alcohol and tobacco markets These are not abstract tasks. They’re the kinds of challenges that, if left unchecked, can destabilize communities and endanger lives. The ATF’s work helps prevent that. Expertise That Makes a Difference One of the ATF’s greatest strengths is its deep technical expertise. ATF agents and specialists are among the nation’s foremost experts in: • Firearms tracing and ballistics • Explosives analysis • Fire scene reconstruction • Criminal networks and trafficking patterns Their National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) is a prime example. It allows law enforcement agencies across the country to link shell casings from different crime scenes, helping investigators identify patterns and stop violent offenders more quickly. Partnerships That Strengthen Communities The ATF doesn’t work alone. It collaborates with thousands of local police departments, federal agencies, and international partners. These relationships amplify the impact of every investigation. Whether it’s helping a small-town police department solve an arson case or supporting a major city’s efforts to dismantle a firearms trafficking ring, the ATF brings resources and expertise that many agencies simply don’t have on their own. Supporting Lawful Industry Beyond enforcement, the ATF plays a crucial regulatory role. It works closely with firearms dealers, explosives companies, and alcohol and tobacco businesses to ensure compliance with federal law. Most of these businesses want to operate responsibly, and the ATF provides guidance, inspections, and education to help them do exactly that. This partnership-based approach strengthens legitimate commerce while preventing dangerous materials from falling into the wrong hands. A Commitment to Professionalism ATF personnel—agents, chemists, auditors, investigators, and support staff—are known for their professionalism and dedication. Their work often requires patience, precision, and a willingness to take on difficult, sometimes dangerous assignments. Yet they continue to serve with integrity, motivated by a simple goal: make communities safer. A Vital, Often Unsung Agency The ATF may not always be in the spotlight, but its contributions are felt nationwide. From solving violent crimes to preventing illegal trafficking, from supporting local law enforcement to ensuring responsible industry practices, the ATF is a critical part of America’s public safety infrastructure. In a world where threats evolve quickly, the ATF’s expertise, adaptability, and commitment to service make it an indispensable force for good.
Jefferson Parish Man Sentenced for Machine Gun Possession Friday, December 19, 2025 U.S. Attorney's Office, Eastern District of Louisiana NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that, JAHBRELL PRICE (“PRICE”), age 25, of Marrero, Louisiana was sentenced on December 4, 2025 by U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown, after previously pleading guilty to the two-count indictment pending against him. Count 1 charged PRICE with possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(3). Count 2 charged PRICE with possession of a machine gun, in violation of Title 18 United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2). PRICE was sentenced to a total term of 33 months’ imprisonment, consisting of 12 months as to Count One and 33 months as to Count Two, with the terms to be served concurrently. PRICE was further sentenced to three (3) years of supervised release, consisting of one (1) year as to Count One and three (3) years as to Count Two, to be served concurrently as well as a $125 mandatory special assessment fee. According to documents, on January 7, 2024, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives located PRICE at a motel at 6751 Westbank Expressway, in Marrero, where he was arrested on an outstanding Orleans Parish warrant. Detectives secured a search warrant for PRICE’s hotel room and located twenty (20) bottles of promethazine (9,460 ml), $1,375.00 in United States currency, and a Glock model 45 nine-millimeter handgun with an external and visible machine gun conversion device attached to the rear of the slide. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit. Contact Brittany Maique Executive Assistant U.S. Attorney's Office Eastern District of Louisiana Updated December 19, 2025
PENSACOLA MAN SENTENCED TO FOUR YEARS IN FEDERAL PRISON FOR UNREGISTERED MACHINEGUN CONVERSION DEVICE Wednesday, December 17, 2025 U.S. Attorney's Office, Northern District of Florida PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Prashant M. Jenkins Jr., 24, of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced to four years in federal prison after having previously pled guilty to possession of an unregistered machinegun conversion device. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our outstanding state and federal law enforcement partners are on the front lines keeping our communities safe from violent criminals, like this defendant, and my office stands ready to back up their hard work with successful prosecutions to send those offenders to federal prison.” Court documents reflect that on October 30, 2024, law enforcement officers found and seized from Jenkins’ residence an AR-style machinegun conversion device, a Glock pistol with a loaded magazine, a loaded AR-15 magazine, approximately 500 grams of marijuana, and other suspected drug trafficking paraphernalia. The conversion device, which itself is considered a machinegun under federal law, was not marked with a serial number and was not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record as required. The sentence was the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes. This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html. Contact United States Attorney’s Office Northern District of Florida USAFLN.Press.Office@usdoj.gov X: @USAO_NDFL Updated December 17, 2025
Gregg Kielma What Makes a Good Firearms Instructor: Skill, Safety, and the Art of Teaching By Gregg Kielma USCCA 5 Star Instructor Clients often inquire about my qualifications, experience with firearms, distinguishing factors as an instructor, and the reasons they should place their trust in my instruction. Below, I offer my perspective on these points for your consideration. Continues Kielma, “as a firearm instructor I carry a responsibility that goes far beyond teaching people how to shoot. I shape attitudes, build safe habits, and influence how students think about firearms for the rest of their lives. An instructor isn’t just knowledgeable — they’re a mentor, a communicator, and a guardian of safety”. 1. Safety Is My Unshakable Foundation Every reputable instructor treats safety as the core of their identity. They don’t just recite the rules — they model them in every movement. A good instructor: • Always demonstrates muzzle awareness • Enforces safe handling without compromise • Creates a controlled, calm learning environment • Explains why safety rules matter, not just what they are Students should feel confident, not intimidated, because they know the instructor is in full command of the range and the lesson. 2. Deep, Practical Knowledge — Not Just Book Learning A strong instructor understands firearms from the inside out. They know: • How different platforms operate • The mechanics behind malfunctions • Ammunition basics • Fundamentals of marksmanship • Real world application, not just theory But knowledge alone isn’t enough. The best instructors can translate complex concepts into simple, digestible steps that anyone can follow. 3. Clear, Patient Communication Teaching firearms is as much about people as it is about guns. A good instructor knows how to read a student’s body language, adjust their approach, and explain things in multiple ways. They: • Stay patient, even when a student struggles • Give corrections respectfully, never harshly • Break skills into manageable steps • Encourage questions and curiosity A great instructor makes students feel capable, not judged. 4. Strong Range Awareness On a live range, awareness is everything. A good instructor constantly monitors: • Muzzle direction • Trigger discipline • Student stress levels • Environmental factors • Range conditions They anticipate problems before they happen and intervene early, calmly, and decisively. 5 . Adaptability to Different Students No two shooters are the same. A good instructor adjusts their teaching style for: • New shooters • Experienced shooters with bad habits • Nervous students • Physically limited students • Left handed shooters • Law enforcement or defensive minded students They don’t force a one size fits all method. They tailor the lesson to the person in front of them. 6. Professionalism and Integrity A good instructor: • Shows up prepared • Maintains their equipment • Keeps their certifications current • Respects students’ time and goals • Avoids ego, bravado, or unsafe “showing off” They understand that professionalism builds trust — and trust is essential when firearms are involved. 7. Commitment to Continuous Improvement Firearms training is evolving. Techniques change. Gear changes. Laws change. A good instructor never stops learning. They: • Attend advanced courses • Study new training methods • Seek feedback • Stay humble enough to grow The best instructors are lifelong students themselves. 8. A Focus on Building Confidence, Not Fear A good instructor helps students feel: • Safe • Capable • In control • Empowered They don’t use intimidation or condescension. They build up shooters, one skill at a time. Conclusion A good firearms instructor is far more than a skilled shooter. They are a communicator, a safety expert, a mentor, and a steady presence on the range. My influence shapes not only how students shoot, but how they think about responsibility, discipline, and respect for firearms. Gregg Kielma USCCA 5 Star Instructor
How to Mount a Scope on a Rifle: A Practical Guide for Accuracy and Confidence By Gregg Kielma Says Gregg Kielma, Gunsmith and firearms Instructor, “I get asked this question all the time. Here is the 8-step process I use when mounting a scope on my rifle or a client’s rifle”. Note: The proper tools are needed to successfully mount the scope properly. Let’s Take a LOOK Mounting a scope is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to a rifle. A properly installed optic improves precision, extends effective range, and gives you a clearer sight picture. But a poorly mounted scope can cause frustration, wandering zero, or even damage to the optic. The good news is that with patience and the right approach, anyone can mount a scope correctly. This guide walks you through the process step by step, emphasizing safety, alignment, and long-term reliability. 1. Start With Safety and Preparation Before doing anything, ensure the rifle is unloaded, the chamber is clear, and ammunition is stored away from your workspace. Treat the rifle as if it’s loaded at all times. Set up a clean, well-lit bench with: • Your rifle • Scope rings or a one-piece mount • The scope • A torque wrench (recommended) • A bubble level or leveling tool • A soft cloth to protect surfaces A stable rest or gun vise makes the job easier, but it’s not mandatory. 2. Choose the Right Rings or Mount Your mounting hardware must match: • Tube diameter of the scope (commonly 1 inch or 30mm) • Objective size, which determines ring height • Rifle’s mounting system (Picatinny, Weaver, dovetail, proprietary bases) Quality rings matter. Cheap hardware often leads to slipping, misalignment, or inconsistent zero. 3. Install the Base or Rail If your rifle doesn’t already have a rail: • Clean the mounting surfaces • Apply a small amount of thread locker (non-permanent) to screws • Tighten screws evenly using manufacturer torque specs A secure base is the foundation of a reliable optic setup. 4. Attach the Lower Half of the Rings Place the lower halves of the rings on the rail and lightly tighten them so they can still slide. Position them far enough apart to support the scope tube without interfering with the turrets. 5. Set the Scope and Establish Eye Relief Place the scope gently into the lower rings and shoulder the rifle in your natural shooting position. Move the scope forward or backward until the sight picture is full and clear without any shadowing. Eye relief is critical: • Too close → risk of “scope bite” under recoil • Too far → reduced field of view Once you find the sweet spot, return the rifle to the bench without disturbing the scope. 6. Level the Reticle A canted reticle causes shots to drift left or right at longer distances. To avoid this: • Level the rifle using a bubble level • Level the scope by placing a second level on the turret cap or using a reticle leveling tool • Adjust until the vertical and horizontal lines are perfectly aligned Take your time here — this step affects long range accuracy more than people realize. 7. Install the Upper Ring Halves and Tighten Evenly Place the top halves of the rings over the scope and tighten the screws gradually in an X pattern. This ensures even pressure and prevents the scope from twisting. Use a torque wrench if possible. Over tightening can dent the scope tube; under tightening can cause it to shift under recoil. 8. Final Checks Before calling it done: • Re check eye relief • Confirm the reticle is still level • Ensure the scope doesn’t move when gently pushed • Cycle the bolt to ensure clearance • Verify that the objective bell doesn’t contact the barrel Everything should feel solid and aligned.
The Wilson Combat P320 9mm: A Custom Grade Evolution of SIG’s Modular Workhorse Gregg Kielma Gregg Kielma, FFL, Gunsmith, Firearms Instructor say’s; Blow out deal on one of my favorite firearms, the Wilson Combat P320 9mm We have one let. Custom holster, 4-10 rd magazines…Our price 950.00 A really fine firearm…Call or email me today! L et’s Take a LOOK! The Wilson Combat P320 9mm — often referred to as the WCP320 — represents one of the most refined interpretations of SIG Sauer’s wildly successful P320 platform. By blending SIG’s modular fire control unit with Wilson Combat’s craftsmanship, the WCP320 transforms a duty ready striker fired pistol into a premium, performance tuned sidearm built for shooters who demand more than factory standard capability. A Collaboration Rooted in Performance Wilson Combat and SIG Sauer partnered to create a pistol that elevates the P320’s strengths while addressing the needs of competitive shooters, tactical professionals, and discerning enthusiasts. The result is a firearm that retains the P320’s modularity but incorporates Wilson Combat’s signature enhancements, including: • A Wilson Combat designed grip module with improved ergonomics and traction • A re machined slide featuring X TAC serrations for superior manipulation • A durable black DLC finish for corrosion resistance and longevity • Wilson Combat’s performance battle sights, optimized for fast acquisition These upgrades collectively create a pistol that feels more planted in the hand, tracks flatter under recoil, and offers a more intuitive shooting experience. Engineering the Ideal Striker Fired Pistol Wilson Combat’s gunsmiths take a SIG manufactured P320 chassis and unfinished slide, then rework them into a refined, high performance package tailored for precision shooting. The result is a pistol that maintains the P320’s reliability while offering a noticeably enhanced trigger feel, improved accuracy, and a more aggressive, duty ready aesthetic. Key Specifications (Typical WCP320 9mm Models) • Caliber: 9mm Luger • Capacity: 17+1 rounds (standard) • Barrel Length: 3.9" (Carry) or 4.7" (Full Size) • Weight: Approximately 26.8–29.2 oz depending on configuration • Overall Length: 7.5"–8.25" depending on model These dimensions place the WCP320 squarely in the realm of duty and defensive pistols, with the Carry model offering a more compact footprint for concealed carry. Grip Module: The Heart of the Upgrade One of the most transformative elements of the WCP320 is the proprietary Wilson Combat grip module. Compared to the standard SIG module, Wilson’s design offers: • More aggressive texturing for a secure hold • A reshaped trigger guard for improved control • Enhanced beavertail geometry to mitigate muzzle rise • A slimmer, more ergonomic profile that fits a wider range of hands Shooters often describe the grip as the single biggest improvement over the factory P320, giving the pistol a more custom fit feel. Slide and Sights: Built for Real World Use The WCP320’s slide is re machined with Wilson Combat’s X TAC pattern, providing deep, directional serrations that excel in wet, gloved, or high stress conditions. The slide is then finished in black DLC, a coating known for its hardness and resistance to wear. Wilson Combat’s battle sights — typically a black rear with a high visibility front — are designed for rapid sight alignment and durability under hard use. Trigger and Internal Enhancements While the P320 is already known for its modular fire control unit, Wilson Combat refines the system with: • A smoother, crisper trigger pull (depending on selected trigger type) • Tuned internal components for improved consistency • Optional upgrades such as match grade barrels and action enhancements These refinements give the WCP320 a more predictable break and reset, contributing to faster follow up shots and tighter groups. Who the WCP320 Is For The Wilson Combat P320 9mm is ideal for shooters who want: • A striker fired pistol with custom shop refinement • A duty capable firearm with enhanced ergonomics • A competition ready platform without aftermarket tinkering • A premium version of a proven, modular handgun system Its price point places it firmly in the premium category, but for many shooters, the performance gains justify the investment. A Premium Take on a Proven Platform The Wilson Combat P320 9mm stands as a testament to what happens when a respected custom shop reimagines a modern, modular pistol. It retains the P320’s reliability and adaptability while elevating nearly every aspect of its performance and handling. For shooters who want a striker fired pistol that feels purpose built, meticulously tuned, and ready for anything from duty use to competition, the WCP320 is one of the most compelling options on the market.
Gun Show: Voyage to the Bottom of The TOILET…Beware…….. The modern gun show is a sensory overload of beef jerky, political bumper stickers, and rows of black rifles, but hidden among the legitimate dealers are traps designed to separate the uninformed from their cash. While many tables offer honest surplus and fair deals, a specific subset of vendors relies on myths, modifications, and flat-out forgeries to inflate prices on otherwise common firearms. Understanding the difference between a rare historical artifact and a garage-cobbled fabrication requires a skeptical eye and a knowledge of specific manufacturing tells. The following list highlights the most pervasive “scams” currently circulating the show circuit, offering the necessary details to spot them before the wallet comes out. 1. The “Mitchell’s Mausers” Trap For years, ads promised pristine German K98ks stored in salt mines, but these are aggressively refurbished Russian captures. The main giveaway is the bolt; original German bolts were blued, while these are polished bright “in the white” to look new. With sanded, bleached stocks and scrubbed markings, they are overpriced mix-masters sold as collector-grade artifacts rather than shooters. 2. The Mythical “Tanker” Garand The “Tanker” Garand is a persistent myth; this short-barreled configuration was never standard issue. The U.S. military tested a prototype but rejected it for excessive muzzle blast. The versions found at shows are commercial creations made by welding cut operating rods. These modifications often cause serious timing issues, making them unreliable novelties rather than historical rarities. 3. Fake Nazi-Marked “Capture” Pistols High prices for Nazi-marked weapons encourage forgers to apply fake eagle stamps to standard commercial pistols. A key tell is the “cold stamp” technique; if the metal inside the stamp looks bright or raw compared to the surrounding bluing, it was applied recently. Forgers also frequently use the wrong inspection codes for the specific make and model; a detail easily checked with a reference guide. 4. The Deadly Khyber Pass Copy Originating from Pakistan’s Darra Adam Khel region, these handmade copies of British military rifles are often unsafe to fire. Built from soft, unhardened steel, they cannot withstand modern ammunition pressures. Visual giveaways include reversed letters in the stampings or a “V.R.” royal cypher dated after 1901. Selling these ethnographic curiosities as functional surplus is a dangerous scam. 5. “Re-Welded” M1 Garand Receivers Between the 1960s and 1980s, cut-up receiver scrap was welded back together to build functional rifles. These “rewelds” are structurally suspect and hold a fraction of the value of an uncut receiver. To spot one, examine the receiver legs for discoloration in the (parkerization) or grinding marks. If the drawing number’s heat lot code does not match the serial number date, it is a welded marriage. 6. The “All-Matching” Mosin Nagant With Soviet surplus, there is a massive difference between factory original and “force-matched” refurbs. During post-war rebuilding, arsenals swapped parts and restamped them to match the barrel. A seller claiming an “all-matching” Mosin is rare; if the font on the bolt differs from the barrel, or the floorplate has a struck-through number, it is a refurbished shooter, not a collector piece. 7. The Counterfeit PU Sniper Genuine Soviet PU snipers are rare, leading to a flood of fakes created by drilling standard infantry rifles. A real sniper will have the scope’s serial number stamped on the barrel shank. Fakes often feature pristine wood cuts for the mount, whereas authentic stocks show patina or shellac inside the cut. If the mounting screws look like modern hardware store replacements, the rifle is a fabrication. 8. Re-Blued Colt Pythons Coati077, CC BY-SA 4.0 / Wikimedia Commons with Colt Python prices soaring, dishonest sellers often re-blue worn examples to pass them off as mint originals. A factory finish is legendary for its mirror-like depth, while a re-blue often blurs the stamped lettering. The “rampant colt” logo may look shallow or washed out from buffing. Additionally, the side plate should fit perfectly; a visible gap or rounded edges indicate an aftermarket finish. 9. The “Vietnam Bring-Back” Story Sellers often price standard SKS or Tokarev pistols at triple value based on unverifiable stories of them being “taken off an officer.” Without the official DD Form 603 capture papers, the firearm is legally just a standard import. Dealers rely on emotional storytelling to close the sale, but the golden rule of collecting applies buy the gun, not the story. Without documentation, the history is worthless. 10. The “Unfired” Commemorative Winchester In the 1970s, Winchester produced endless “Commemorative Edition” rifles featuring gold plating and medallions. Sold as instant investments, they were made in such high numbers that they possess little collector scarcity today. Sellers often price them high, hoping a buyer mistakes “shiny” for valuable. The gaudy plating makes them poor shooters, and they often sell for less than standard models. 11. No-Name “Custom” AR-15 Builds Tables covered in “custom” AR-15s with bright anodized parts often hide cheap components behind flashy aesthetics. These builds are frequently assembled from bottom-tier parts and out-of-spec receivers yet carry price tags over $1,200. Unless the seller provides a build sheet listing reputable manufacturers for the barrel and bolt, these are often overpriced “Franken-guns” worth less than an entry-level rifle.
Crossing State Lines With a Firearm: What to Know. Please Check The Locations You Are Traveling To. Ignorance is NOT An EXCUSE!!!!! Let's Take a LOOK Gregg Kielma Legal Gun Owners: Things You Must Never Do While Traveling Across State Lines Traveling with firearms across state lines requires close attention to federal and state laws on possession, storage, and carry. Mistakes can lead to loss of protection, criminal charges, or confiscation. Knowing local requirements and permit reciprocity helps gun owners avoid violations while driving or flying. Traveling with a loaded firearm in the vehicle Carrying a loaded firearm in a passenger area violates federal travel rules, which require guns to be unloaded, locked, and out of reach. Many states consider loaded guns in glove boxes or consoles illegal, even for permit holders. Unsecured firearms increase risks and legal penalties; storing them in a locked case away from occupants meets federal and local requirements for interstate travel. Assuming your gun is legal in every state you enter A firearm permitted at home may be restricted in other states due to differing laws on calibers, magazines, or features. Some states prohibit certain guns regardless of permits. Legal experts caution that entering a stricter state can make possession illegal. Always verify legality in both origin and destination, as safe passage rules require the gun to be lawful in both. Believing your concealed carry permit is valid everywhere Permit reciprocity is not universal; several states do not acknowledge out-of-state permits. Law enforcement officials emphasize that presuming recognition may inadvertently result in unlawful carry charges. Each state establishes unique qualification standards, training protocols, and lists of approved permits. Prior to travel, responsible firearm owners consult each state's reciprocity lists and familiarize themselves with restrictions related to carrying loaded or concealed firearms. Neglecting this due diligence can lead to immediate legal consequences, even if the firearm is otherwise legally owned and transported. Keeping ammunition in the same accessible space as the firearm Federal guidelines require storing firearms and ammunition separately when traveling across state lines. Keeping them together within reach can violate legal protections and appear unlawful. Use locked cases outside passenger access for compliance and safety. Proper storage shows responsibility and helps ensure smooth interactions with law enforcement. Storing ammunition correctly is as vital as storing firearms. Making unnecessary detours or extended stops in restrictive states Safe travel laws only protect direct transit; stopping in states with strict firearm rules makes travelers subject to local possession laws, risking immediate legal issues. Continuous travel preserves federal protection, so planning routes avoids jurisdictions with tighter regulations. Using cases that are not securely locked or durable Transporting firearms in unlocked or flimsy cases does not meet federal standards. Experts advise using hard-sided, locked cases to prevent unauthorized access and ensure safety. Soft bags can be seen as unsafe and may cause legal or safety issues during inspections. Traveling with firearms that have altered or missing serial numbers It is illegal to possess or transport firearms with defaced or unreadable serial numbers, regardless of ownership. Even accidental possession can lead to serious charges, and many states impose extra penalties for transporting such weapons. Always check that firearm serial numbers are intact and visible before travel to avoid violating regulations. Ignoring magazine or feature restrictions in certain states Some states limit magazine size or feature like folding stocks and threaded barrels. Transporting restricted components can lead to violations, even with proper storage. Review state restrictions before traveling, as prohibited magazines or accessories may result in confiscation or legal action. Understanding these rules helps ensure compliance with varying firearm equipment regulations. Relying on federal law without checking local ordinances Federal regulations set basic standards for firearm transport, but many states and cities have stricter rules for storage, possession, and transit. Legal experts note that local laws may differ from state laws, creating risks of unintentional violations. It is important to research all applicable regulations before traveling to avoid penalties and ensure smooth travel. Shipping firearms improperly across state lines Federal law states that most firearms sent across state borders must go through licensed dealers. Sending a handgun directly to someone else is against these laws and can lead to serious penalties. Experts suggest double-checking how to package, what carriers allow, and the rules at the destination before mailing any gun. By following these proper steps, you help ensure safe handling and stay within the regulations designed to protect interstate commerce. Responsible gun owners always use approved methods (FFL’s) to avoid accidentally breaking federal shipping and transfer laws.
