Sub Compact Firearms...Know the Functionality

10 Inexpensive 9mm Pistols Gregg Kielma FFL/Gunsmith/ Firearms Instructor- First Aid Instructor- AED Distributor Says Gregg Kielma, please choose wisely, your life may depend on it. Some of the firearms listed below, are questionable to excellent This is not my list but a contributing reporter. Read on…. Call me for information you need to make a great decision. Quality firearms don’t always come with hefty price tags. In the realm of 9mm pistols, there’s a plethora of options that offer exceptional performance without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a newcomer to the world of firearms, these affordable handguns are worth considering. Let’s dive into our list of 10 cheap 9mm pistols that rival their more expensive counterparts. 1. Ruger EC9s At a mere fraction of the cost of custom pistols, the Ruger EC9s delivers reliability and functionality. With a price tag of around $200, it’s an economical choice for those on a budget. Despite its modest price, the EC9s boasts features like a glass-filled nylon frame, a steel slide, and a bladed trigger for added safety. 2. Glock 19 Gen 5 A staple in the firearms industry, Glock pistols are renowned for their simplicity and reliability. The Glock 19 Gen 5 continues this tradition, offering a durable polymer frame, improved trigger design, and a 15-round capacity—all for around $550. Whether for concealed carry or home defense, the Glock 19 is a versatile option. 3. Walther PDP The Walther PDP may fly under the radar, but its performance speaks volumes. With a crisp trigger, ergonomic grip, and optics-ready construction, the PDP rivals higher-priced alternatives. Priced at $650, it’s a worthy investment for shooters seeking quality and value. 4. CZ 75D PCR While polymer pistols dominate the market, the CZ 75D PCR proves that traditional designs still have merit. Featuring an alloy frame and a 14-round capacity, this compact handgun offers reliability and accuracy. With a price tag of $550, it’s a steal for those who appreciate classic craftsmanship. 5. Sig Sauer P365 XL Compact yet powerful, the Sig Sauer P365 XL packs a punch without sacrificing concealability. With a double-stack magazine holding 12 rounds and an optics-ready slide, it’s ideal for personal defense. Priced at $650.00, it’s a cost-effective solution for shooters prioritizing performance. 6. Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P9 2.0 The M&P9 2.0 from Smith & Wesson’s Performance Center combines competition-grade performance with affordability. With a 5-inch barrel, modular grip, and refined trigger, it’s built for precision shooting. Priced at $1,050, it offers exceptional value for discerning shooters. 7. Shadow Systems XR920 Elite For those seeking a custom Glock experience without the premium price, the Shadow Systems XR920 Elite fits the bill. With enhanced grip texture, improved slide serrations, and optics compatibility, it’s a versatile option. Priced at $950, it’s a cost-effective alternative to pricier custom pistols. 8. Canik SFX Rival S Canik pistols have gained a reputation for performance and affordability, and the SFX Rival S is no exception. With a steel frame, optics-ready construction, and adjustable iron sights, it offers competition-grade features at an affordable price. Priced at $1,050 or less, it’s a competitive option for shooters on a budget. 9. Wilson Combat WCP320 Custom-grade performance meets affordability with the Wilson Combat WCP320. Based on the Sig Sauer P320 platform, it features upgrades like an X-Series trigger, enhanced slide serrations, and improved sights. Priced at around $1,200, it offers exceptional value for shooters seeking precision and reliability. 10. CZ 75 SP-01 Competition Rounding out our list is the CZ 75 SP-01 Competition, a competition-ready handgun at an affordable price point. With a 21-round capacity, lightened competition hammer, and fiber optic sights, it’s designed for accuracy and speed. Priced at $450, it’s a budget-friendly option for competitive shooters. Gregg Kielma FFL/Gunsmith/ Firearms Instructor- First Aid Instructor- AED Distributor

When Arkansas state trooper pulls you over for a routine traffic stop… Now What? Gregg Kielma FFL/Gunsmith/ Firearms Instructor- First Aid Instructor- AED Distributor The rules on this vary from state to state but, a quick google search told me the following things. In Arkansas, if you have a weapon on you and you are stopped by an officer you are required to inform the officer that you are armed. Period. However, state law does not say anything about officers taking control of your weapon. Here is where it can get a little confusing. The supreme court has ruled that “Officer Safety” allows an officer to take possession of a weapon during an “encounter” if they feel that it is necessary for their safety. Currently the ruling does not define how quickly they must return the property to you. Please remember 4th amendment protects you against illegal seizure of a weapon. My thought and non-legal advice to you would be, if the officer orders you to hand over the weapon or tells you they are going to take possession of the weapon…don’t argue. Follow their orders and do as they ask. At the end of the stop, they should return the weapon to you, assuming you are not a criminal, have not committed a criminal act that would result in your arrest. If they do not return the weapon to you at the conclusion of the encounter, then you need to immediately contact a lawyer and get them involved. Gregg Kielma FFL/Gunsmith/ Firearms Instructor- First Aid Instructor- AED Distributor

Why can’t I take a concealed carry gun everywhere I go including work? Gregg Kielma FFL/Gunsmith/ Firearms Instructor- First Aid Instructor- AED Distributor As a highly trained firearms instructor in several disciplines, I get asked this question a lot. I’m going to answer this on what my wife told me a few days ago. Something happened where a panic was caused inside in a well-known big box retailer. According to my sources, people were screaming. Was there an active shooter and were there sounds that resembled gunshots? Depends on who you ask. My wife was put in a situation where she did not know if there was an actual shooter, and she was focusing on trying to find a safe location. She didn’t have her firearm despite her constant training and ability to carry a firearm. She was on her way home from work and her employer forbids employees having a firearm during business hours and we never leave a firearm in a car, ever. More on my thoughts in the last paragraph. If something were to have happened my wife could not have protected herself as well as anyone around her. No knife, no firearm, nothing. The woman I love the most was put in a potentially dangerous situation. My wife could have been killed or seriously injured. That’s why we own and carry guns. It’s the lifestyle we live. Not because we want to hurt someone, but because the unexpected can happen. I know there are people who, given a chance, can hurt us, however, we’ll never give them an opportunity EVER AGAIN. Period. I conceal carry to keep myself as well as the people I love safe. I carry a gun so hopefully if put in a situation I can go home at the end of the day. I carry to protect myself, loved ones and community. I’m legally able to, I’m responsible, I have a plan, I’ve trained heavily for years with firearms. (key here training and trained) Says Kielma, “I’m a Firearms Home Defense/ CCW/Countering The Mass Shooter/Woman and Firearms/Children and Firearms/Range Safety Officer/Hand Gun/Long Gun Coach/ and First Aid Fundamentals INSTRUCTOR. I should have the right to carry everywhere. Period. It’s my personal belief we should be able to carry a gun with us concealed at work or anyplace we choose to go. Not having a way to avoid, escape or defend is now out of the question. Employers and businesses must change their thinking. In my opinion this is unconstitutional and a breach of our personal safety. Some college campuses are starting to get, it’s time for employers to also “get it”. Gregg Kielma FFL/Gunsmith/ Firearms Instructor- First Aid Instructor- AED Distributor

When buying a gun, what are the correct "answers" when being questioned? Gregg Kielma FFL/Gunsmith/ Firearms Instructor/First Aid Instructor- AED Distributor Says Kielma, a good FFL asks the basic questions, especially when a gun is transferred in. Here are the five simple questions I ask. It will save both of us time and money. Note: if you purchase a firearm online and answer yes to the first three questions below, you can’t have the firearm, period. If you answer yes to all questions but one, on the 4473 above and beyond what’s below, you can’t have the firearm, period. My suggestion is to check the laws in your state before purchasing and transferring a gun. 1. Are you a convicted felon? 2. Do you have any domestic violence charges you are guilty of? 3. Do you have a medical Marijuana card? 4. Do you have a CCW 5. Do you have a valid driver’s license. Honesty is the best policy. If the guys at the counter ask why you want the gun (not in the sense you shouldn’t have one, but what kind of shooting you’ll do) tell them. Targets? Self-defense? They need to know what you intend to use the firearm for to better guide your purchase. The US federal government, as mentioned above, the 4473. This must be filled out properly and honestly. Answer the questions truthfully. Hunter Biden got found guilty of lying on his 4473. Don’t be the next one. If you’re not allowed to have a gun, it is likely NICS will reveal it anyway. Lying on the 4473 is a bad idea. You multiply it with a lie. Then the fun starts for you. Be ready for a knock from the federal government, you guessed it the ATF. The ATF doesn’t play around, if convicted you will be come a convicted felon and spend time in jail. As far as the “correct” answers? “Yes” the gun is for me “No” to everything else until it comes to where you were born, etc. If the gun is ultimately being bought with your money (and a gift is paid for with your money) then the first answer is “yes” it’s for you. A gift is not a straw purchase. If someone gives you money to buy it for them, then it is a straw purchase and is illegal. Any of the other questions are exclusions - a “yes” answer there disqualifies you on the spot. Gregg Kielma FFL/Gunsmith/ Firearms Instructor/First Aid Instructor- AED Distributor

Glock Precision and Reliability Gregg Kielma FFL/Gunsmith/ Firearms Instructor- First Aid Instructor- AED Distributor Since its introduction to the American market in 1986, there’s been no doubt that the Glock is one of those landmark gun designs that has made it one of the best firearms in history. Police forces across the country flocked to the Glock almost from the moment it was unveiled. Its popularity stems from the fact that it is extremely rugged, almost flawlessly reliable, and is cost effective for all budgets. Another big factor in the Glock’s popularity on the American civilian market is the fact there are a lot of people who put their faith in whatever it is that the Law Enforcement use. As Glock reinvents itself with new firearms and exceptional reliability, I as a gunsmith, highly recommend Glock for self-protection. I’ve carried the same Glock 19 Gen3 for the past 30 years. I’ve run approx. 35K rounds through this firearm. Never, not once did it ever malfunction or let me down. I my humble opinion best firearms on the market today. Gregg Kielma FFL/Gunsmith/ Firearms Instructor- First Aid Instructor- AED Distributo r

What will happen when you enter a gun-free building with your pistol and CCW permit? Will you be arrested? Gregg Kielma FFL/Gunsmith/ Firearms Instructor- First Aid Instructor- AED Distributor If all you’re carrying is your permit? no. Continues Kielma, it's incumbent on you to know the laws in the state you reside in. Follow the rules and you should be ok. If there’s a sign on someone private property asking you not to bring your gun - don’t go in there with your gun. Sure, the fact that you’re carrying will: a.) likely go undetected b.) even if detected, it may possibly trigger police action. Know that you will be taking a risk if you’re carrying where it’s not permitted. Respect for property rights and following laws and local rules, even where there’s minimal risk of penalties for your breach, is one of the cornerstones of living in a civilized, first world country. If the police aren’t allowed to investigate or enter your home or car without a warrant in the pursuit of fighting crime, why should private citizens be allowed to trample your rights to govern conduct upon private property? If you believe 30.06 signs (as they’re known in Texas) are an unbearable affront, then either do all your shopping online, or get legislation passed to obtain banning them. My advice respect others’ rights on their own private property. Lastly Kielma say's, most importantly, if you see a gun-free sign or a business asking not to have a firearm on the property, just don’t eat or shop there. Sooner or later, they’ll get the message. Gregg Kielma FFL/Gunsmith/ Firearms Instructor- First Aid Instructor- AED Distributor

Gun Show Possible Items to Avoid Story by Lisa Greene Gregg Kielma FFL/Gunsmith/ Firearms Instructor- First Aid Instructor- AED Distributor Gun shows are packed with an array of items that can intrigue new buyers and seasoned collectors alike. However, these events are also ripe for deals that might seem too good to pass up but come with pitfalls that many don’t expect. Here are five things you should think twice about before buying at a gun show. 1. Reloaded Ammo or Ammo with Uncertain Origins Reloaded or untraceable ammunition is one of the biggest no-go’s at a gun show. While the bulk packages may appear to offer great deals, the risks can be high. With reloaded ammunition, it’s impossible to know if it was prepared by a professional or someone with questionable standards. Poorly reloaded ammo can lead to misfires, jams, or even damage to your firearm due to inconsistent pressures or improper casing sizes. Avoid the headache and potential harm – stick with trusted brands and sources for your ammunition. 2. Non-Gun or Non-2A Related Merchandise These days, gun shows have unfortunately become a bit of a mixed bag. Among the firearms and accessories, you’ll often find tables of items that have no relevance to gun culture or the Second Amendment. Items like timeshares, beef jerky, and even shoe insoles make appearances, creating a flea market atmosphere. Spending money on these items at a gun show only encourages vendors to keep returning with products that detract from the event’s original purpose. Instead, let’s support vendors who align with the community’s values. 3. Used Revolvers from Private Seller Buying a used revolver at a gun show can be risky if you’re unable to test its functionality fully. Typically, gun show organizers will secure guns with zip ties to prevent anyone from dry firing or manipulating the mechanisms, so a thorough examination may be impossible. Even revolvers, known for their durability, can have hidden issues like faulty timing or poor lock-up. Without the ability to inspect these details, you could end up with a revolver that needs extensive (and expensive) repairs. When in doubt, buy used firearms only from trusted dealers who offer warranties or have a proven reputation. 4. Used Semi-Automatic Pistols Semi-automatic pistols are even trickier to buy secondhand at a gun show. Sellers will often tell you it’s “barely used” or that they’ve only put a few rounds through it, but these claims are impossible to verify. Many used pistols have mechanical issues or reliability problems that lead owners to offload them. A semi-automatic that jam can be extremely frustrating and costly to fix, with no guarantee the issues can even be resolved by a gunsmith. For a purchase that needs to function reliably, stick to new or warrantied options. 5. “Collectible” Firearms Without Authenticity Documentation Collectible firearms can be enticing at gun shows, especially if you’re hoping to score a rare find. But buying a collectible gun without proper documentation or authentication is risky. Some “collectible” firearms have been modified, refinished, or altered in ways that significantly reduce their value. For instance, if a gun left the factory in a blue finish but was later altered to a nickel finish, it loses originality. To avoid paying top dollar for a modified firearm, always ask for factory letters or certificates of authenticity, especially with brands like Colt, where modifications can drastically affect the value. The Importance of Authenticity at Gun Shows One of the key considerations for any gun show purchase is authenticity. Whether it’s reloaded ammo or a collectible firearm, authentic items have a much higher value and reliability than those with murky origins. When it comes to collectibles, it’s worth spending the extra time and potentially extra money to verify an item’s background. Authenticity ensures that you’re getting exactly what you expect and that your purchase holds its value. Take Your Time to Research Researching before you buy is essential for any gun show visit. Gun shows offer a range of items that can either be exceptional deals or regrettable mistakes. Familiarize yourself with fair prices, identify the signs of genuine quality, and ensure you’re equipped with knowledge. This kind of preparation allows you to avoid pressure sales tactics and make decisions based on value rather than hype. Avoid “Impulse Buys” to Prevent Regret Impulse buys are the enemy of any responsible gun show purchase. With so many items on display, it’s easy to get swept up in the thrill of the hunt. However, impulse buying often leads to regrettable choices, especially with firearms or ammo that may not meet your usual standards. Make a list of what you’re genuinely interested in purchasing and stick to it. Supporting the Right Vendors When buying at a gun show, supporting vendors who align with the event’s spirit is crucial. By doing so, you’re helping to preserve the quality and integrity of gun shows. When you spend money with reputable, 2A-focused vendors, you send a message that gun shows should remain true to their purpose, offering only products and services that enhance the experience for firearm enthusiasts. Knowledge is Your Best Tool Arming yourself with knowledge is one of the most important tips for gun show visitors. If you’re unfamiliar with a specific gun model or collectible firearm, don’t hesitate to ask experts or check resources before making a purchase. Being informed empowers you to make sound decisions and prevents you from falling for overpriced or low-quality items. A Thoughtful Approach Navigating gun shows can be enjoyable and rewarding if approached thoughtfully. By avoiding reloaded ammo, irrelevant merchandise, and unvetted secondhand firearms, you can focus on high-quality purchases that align with your interests. Always prioritize reliability, authenticity, and trusted sellers to ensure your gun show experience leaves you with nothing but positive memories and smart investments. Story by Lisa Greene Gregg Kielma FFL/Gunsmith/ Firearms Instructor- First Aid Instructor- AED Distributor

Gregg Kielma Seven Firearms You Should Not Buy??? Gregg Kielma FFL/Gunsmith/ Firearms Instructor- First Aid Instructor- AED Distributor Gregg Kielma, my thoughts. I often see articles written about firearms not to purchase. Below is another one of those lists from another expert who will remain anonymous. We all have budgets for that “perfect” firearm for your home, hunting or self-defense. As an FFL and Gunsmith, I try to steer my clients towards the more known firearms than the less expensive, less reliable firearm. I often suggest cheap isn’t always better especially in a self-defense situation. When you pull the trigger, you want the gun to function properly. If you’re thinking about spending 400.00 for a firearm, I suggest waiting a few extra weeks or perhaps a few months and spend 600.00 and get a well-made reliable firearm. Your life may depend upon the choice you make. At the end of the day, it’s your choice and I’ll sell you what I believe is the best firearm for you budget. Let's take a look below at what are anonymous expert has to say. 1. UTAS UTS-15 Bullpup Shotgun The UTS-15 may look straight out of a sci-fi flick, with its bullpup design and dual magazine tubes, but that's mostly where its appeal ends. The UTS-15 is complex to load, tricky to operate, and prone to feeding and ejection issues. With reliability falling short, this shotgun doesn't justify its price and can't compare to more dependable models like the Remington 870 or Mossberg 500. While it's eye-catching, the UTS-15 proves that style alone isn't enough. 2. Winchester 1400 Shotgun Winchester is a well-respected name in firearms, but the semi-auto Winchester 1400 fails to live up to that legacy. Known for reliability issues and wear-and-tear problems, this shotgun can jam frequently, struggling with failures to feed and eject. Although it was meant to be an affordable semi-auto, it's become known for all the wrong reasons. For a trustworthy shotgun, this is one to skip. 3. Pistol Caliber Carbines (PCCs) Pistol-caliber carbines, or PCCs, can be a blast to shoot, thanks to their improved accuracy over handguns and manageable recoil. But they're not exactly practical. These carbines, typically chambered in handgun calibers like 9mm or .45 ACP, lack the range and stopping 4. Budget AR-15s There's a reason people love the AR-15, but going cheap on one can cost you in the long run. While budget AR-15s (often under $800) save you upfront, they typically come with poorly made parts, shoddy assembly, and inconsistent quality control. They may work for occasional range trips, but they struggle with prolonged or intensive use. So while saving a few bucks may sound nice, budget ARs often turn into more hassle than they're worth when reliability issues start to show. 5. Taurus Judge and Its Variants The Taurus Judge, designed to fire both .45 Colt and .410 shotshells, aims to be a versatile, close-quarters defense tool. But in reality, it's too bulky, with a heavy trigger and reliability issues that make it a poor choice for self-defense. The Judge's heavy frame and clunky handling feel like overkill, and though it has a big following, it's largely thanks to marketing rather than solid performance. For real versatility, there are better options. 6. Officers 1911s The 1911 is a classic, and when made in mid-sized variations like the Commander, it balances power with portability. But when scaled down to subcompact versions, often with a 3-inch barrel, things start to go wrong. These "Officer" 1911s bring sharp recoil and frequent feed malfunctions, making them a hassle. They're also picky about ammunition, demanding specific types to avoid jamming. While they may sound like a great idea, these tiny 1911s often don't perform well enough to justify the headache. 7. Derringers These pocket-sized pistols may look charming in Westerns, but that's where they belong: in the past. Originally made for discreet self-defense, Derringers were once valued for their low-profile carry. Today, however, compact semi-autos and snub-nosed revolvers have made them obsolete. Derringers can be awkward to handle, offer limited ammo capacity, and have outdated safety features that can make them risky to use. Even the popular .410 shotshell-firing models are more of a novelty than a practical choice, lacking enough firepower to be reliable. Gregg Kielma FFL/Gunsmith/ Firearms Instructor- First Aid Instructor- AED Distributor

Can You Move and Shoot? Gregg Kielma FFL-Firearms Instructor- First Aid Fundamentals Instructor/ AED Distributor From Sargent Nick and Gregg Kielma Says Gregg Kielma, "practice is important. Its everything you need to do to understand using a firearm in a bad situation. Can you move and shoot at the same time? Can you move offline and protect yourself or a loved one. How will you and your body understand the immense stress you'll be under? Do you understand "Fight or Flight". What impact will be using a firearm have on you and your family? How, will you defend yourself in court? What are the financial obligations if you use a firearm? Let's take a look and make a plan for you, your family and loved ones. Please come train with us". Today I wanted to talk a little about moving and shooting. I believe this is so important because if you get into a fire fight on the street, most likely you will be reacting to someone drawing on you. In that split second when you realize what is happening, what will be your initial reaction? • Will you just stand there? • Will you start backing away? • Will you run for cover? Honestly, you probably have NO idea what you would do unless you are put into that situation. But when we do force-on-force, what we usually see is someone staying in the same spot and drawing their weapon or drawing their weapon as they are backing up. And they get shot! You need to realize, the FIRST thing you should do is disrupt the shooter. The best way to do this is by moving laterally. So move to your right or left, not forward or backwards because that makes you an easy target. So, the drill I want you to practice is: • Pretend an attacker has just drawn a weapon • Start moving to your left or right • As you're moving practice drawing your weapon (DO NOT STOP MOVING) • And lastly get shots on your target while moving You need to train for this situation, the more training you do, the more likely you will react in the proper manner when your life is at risk. Sgt Nick Rians and Gregg Kielma If you are interes ted in training with us in person go to tacticalktrainingandfirearms.com