Gregory Kielma • August 5, 2024
Courts Attack Second Amendment, Right to Buy Firearms
Courts Attack Second Amendment, Right to Buy Firearms
By
Larry Keane
There’s an interesting – if not devious – trend emerging in some Second Amendment cases. The first step of the U.S. Supreme Court’s Bruentest is to ask whether the conduct at issue is covered by the text of the Second Amendment which protects a pre-existing “right to keep and bear arms.” Some lower courts in purporting to apply the Bruen test are upholding gun control laws by holding that you do not have a Second Amendment right to buy a firearm.
That’s intellectually dishonest, to say the least. The ability to freely approach the gun counter to legally purchase a firearm is paramount to exercising the Second Amendment rights to keep and bear arms. There is no “keeping” of firearms if there is no legal right to lawfully acquire those same firearms. The ramifications of this flawed legal reasoning are self-evident. The government could simply ban the buying (and selling) of firearms and therefore eviscerate the Second Amendment all without infringing upon the right.
Right to Buy
The most recent example comes from New Mexico, where a federal district court judge refused to preliminarily enjoin the state’s seven-day waiting period for purchasing a firearm. There were several serious concerns with this decision, including the judge’s determination that the lengthy waiting period doesn’t constrain the rights to keep and bear arms. The judge contended that the waiting period only minimally burdens the “ancillary right to acquire firearms.”
That might come as news to an individual facing imminent threat to their safety or even their life. A woman who is the victim of domestic violence who considers purchasing a firearm to protect herself and her family could argue that the state’s seven-day waiting period is a seven-day ban on her ability to lawfully keep and bear arms when she knows there’s a threat to her life.
That wasn’t the worst of it. The same judge concluded that the waiting-period law is presumptively constitutional” given that the first waiting period laws were enacted in the 1920s – long after U.S. Constitution was ratified, and the 14th Amendment adopted. The judge even pointed to past, discriminatory laws that restricted the sale of firearms to slaves, freedmen and Native Americans. It is astonishing that a federal judge relied on racist laws that have been repudiated by the courts and American society to justify a gun control law.
However, that’s not what the Supreme Court held in the Bruen decision. That test, the Court said, is that gun control laws must have a “history and tradition” consistent with when the Second Amendment was signed into law in 1791 at the nation’s founding.
Court Concerns
It would be tempting to dismiss this judge’s decision as a “one-off” aberration. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. A 2024 decision by the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York explicitly said that there is no Second Amendment right to purchase a second handgun within a 90-day window of purchasing a previous handgun.
“The question thus becomes whether a waiting period before the purchase of a second handgun is conduct covered by the text of the Second Amendment. It is not,” the court ruled in its opinion of Knight v. City of New York.
What the court is saying is that the government can ration the exercise of a Constitutionally protected right, in this case, to just once every 90 days. This would be unthinkable if a court ruled that a law-abiding American could only exercise their rights to free speech or attend a church, mosque of synagogue of their choosing every three months. The federal court here is relegating the Second Amendment to a second-class right, that Justice Clarence Thomas has warned about.
That line of thinking wasn’t limited to New York. The U.S. District Court for the District of Vermont upheld the state’s waiting-period law, in Vermont Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs v. Birmingham this year, by claiming there’s no Second Amendment right to legally purchasing a firearm.
“The Court finds that the relevant conduct – acquiring a firearm through a commercial transaction on-demand – is not covered by the plain text of the Second Amendment,” wrote Judge William Sessions III. He quizzically added, “Plaintiffs may keep and bear arms without immediately acquiring them.”
That defies logic. It is impossible to legally keep and bear anything without the ability to lawfully purchase it first.
In 2023, the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado ruled against Rocky Mountain Gun Owners seeking to enjoin a three-day-waiting period law signed by Gov. Jared Polis. In this decision, the federal court ruled that the Second Amendment doesn’t explicitly say anything about legally acquiring a firearm.
“From this reading of the plain text, it is clear the relevant conduct impacted by the waiting period – the receipt of a paid-for firearm without delay – is not covered,” the decision reads, adding, “To ‘keep,’ under the definitions provided in Heller, meant to retain an object one already possessed. It did not mean to receive a newly paid-for item, and it certainly did not mean to receive that item without delay. Likewise, ‘having weapons’ indicates the weapons are already in one’s possession, not that one is receiving them.”
The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania ruled in 2023 in U.S. v. King that there is no right to buy and sell firearms. In fact, Judge Joseph Leeson Jr. clearly states that it is a factor he didn’t – and wouldn’t – consider, writing, “…the Court looks at the Second Amendment’s plain text; it does not consider ‘implicit’ rights that may be lurking beneath the surface of the plain text.”
“Even if the Court assumed that there is an implicit right in the Second Amendment to buy and sell firearms in order to keep and bear arms, that is not the same thing as a right to buy and sell firearms as a regular course of trade or business with the principal objective of livelihood and profit through the repetitive purchase and resale of firearms,” Judge Leeson wrote. “In other words, the Second Amendment does not protect the commercial dealing of firearms.” Of course, while Heller said commercial regulations could be presumptively valid, it never suggested that the buying and selling of commonly used “arms” could be banned.
Governors Knew in 2020
Juxtapose that with governors who, just four years ago, quickly reversed their policies to order firearm retailers to close their doors during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. New Jersey’s Gov. Phil Murphy reversed course from his initial ordering of gun stores to be closed. He recognized that denying the ability of law-abiding citizens to legally obtain a firearm is denying them the ability to exercise their Second Amendment rights. Pennsylvania’s former Gov. Tom Wolf did the same, even after Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court denied a challenge to the order. The quiet about-face was in light of what could have become a U.S. Supreme Court challenge.
A federal judge ordered former Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker to allow firearm retailers there to reopen. The judge ordering the injunction wrote, “The exigencies surrounding this viral pandemic both justify and necessitate changes in the manner in which people live their lives and conduct their daily business. However, this emergency – like any other emergency – has its constitutional limits. It would not justify a prior restraint on speech, nor a suspension of the right to vote. Just the same, it does not justify a ban on obtaining guns and ammunition.”
Divorcing the right to freely approach the gun counter at a firearm retailer and the right to keep and bear arms is a dangerous slope. Firearms are legal products, available for anyone to freely purchase who is over the age of 18 for long guns or 21 for handguns, provided that individual is purchasing the firearm for him or herself and can pass the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). Conditioning that right – whether through waiting periods which are an attempt to delay the exercise of that right – or by unmooring the right to legally purchase a firearm is a violation of the rights that belong to the people.
Imagine a court ruling that the First Amendment doesn’t include the right to buy a book. Or a law that said you can only buy a newspaper after waiting seven days. Or a law that limits how many books you can buy in a month. Or a law in which the government decides which books you are allowed to buy and read? Obviously, no one would tolerate such laws. So why is it acceptable for Second Amendment rights? The answer, sadly, is that despite the Heller, McDonald and Bruen decisions, because some legislative bodies and judges treat the Second Amendment as a “second class right.”
Gregg Kielma USCCA Instructor-FFL-Gunsmith-ERT Captain-First Aid Instructor 🧭 Where Gregg Kielma Stands in the Florida Firearm Training Community Internet Community 4/12/2026 1. A Recognized, Multi Certified Instructor Kielma holds a broad suite of USCCA certifications, including concealed carry, home defense, countering mass shooters, women’s self defense, children’s firearms safety, first aid, and range safety operations. His profile shows a 5.0 instructor rating and active class schedule, indicating strong student satisfaction and steady demand. This positions him as a well-rounded, technically competent instructor rather than a niche specialist. 2. A Credible FFL and Gunsmith His Federal Firearms License (FFL #1 59 081 01 8L 57063) is active through 2028, confirming his legitimacy as a dealer and gunsmith. This adds weight to his standing: many instructors teach, but far fewer combine instruction + gunsmithing + compliance knowledge. 3. A Community Rooted Voice on Safety and Law Kielma frequently publishes guidance on: • situational awareness • lawful use of force • Florida self defense statutes • responsible ownership His posts emphasize avoidance, legality, and decision making, not bravado—an approach that earns respect among responsible gun owners. This positions him as a public educator, not just a range instructor. 4. Builder of a Purpose Driven Outdoor Training Range His private outdoor range in Parrish is designed around calm, controlled, realistic training, reinforcing his philosophy of competence through safety and confidence. Creating a dedicated training environment elevates his status from “instructor” to training provider and community resource. 5. Student Feedback and Reputation Public reviews and descriptions highlight: • patience • clarity • humor balanced with seriousness • ability to simplify complex topics • strong real world experience These traits are consistently associated with top tier civilian instructors. 6. Growing Influence Through Writing and Education Kielma publishes articles on firearms law, safety, and equipment—something relatively few local instructors do. This increases his visibility and positions him as a thought leader, not just a service provider. ⭐ Overall Standing Based on publicly available information, Gregg Kielma stands as: A respected, safety driven, legally knowledgeable firearms instructor with a strong local presence, a professional reputation, and a growing educational footprint. He is not a national celebrity instructor—but within Florida’s training community, especially Manatee County and surrounding areas, he is viewed as a trusted authority and a reliable source of responsible, law aligned firearms, first aid, FFL, range operator education.
Preparing Your Home and Business for Hurricane Season 2026 By Gregory Kielma, Tactical K Training and Firearms 4/11/2026 Hurricane Season 2026 is almost here, and if there’s one thing living in Florida has taught us, it’s this: storms don’t give warnings that fit our schedules. They don’t care if we’re busy, traveling, or hoping this year will be “a quiet one.” Preparedness isn’t panic — it’s responsibility. It’s leadership. And it’s how we protect the people who count on us at home and at work. Kielma advises, "as someone who trains families, businesses, and community members in safety and readiness every day as an ERT Captain for my area, I look at hurricane preparation the same way I look at personal protection: layered, practical, and consistent". 1. Start With Awareness and Planning Storm readiness begins long before the first named system forms. • Review your evacuation zone and routes. Know where you’re going before you need to go. • Make sure every family member or employee understands the plan — communication prevents chaos. • Keep important documents secured, backed up, and accessible. • If you have elderly family members, pets, or employees with mobility challenges, build their needs into the plan now. A plan only works if everyone knows it and can execute it under stress. 2. Strengthen Your Home’s Physical Security Your home is your shelter. Treat it like one. • Inspect windows, doors, and garage doors for weaknesses. Reinforce where needed. • Trim trees and remove loose outdoor items that become airborne hazards. • Clean gutters and drainage areas so water has somewhere to go. • Test generators and fuel supplies — don’t wait until the day before landfall. • Charge power banks, radios, and essential electronics early. If you live in a flood prone area, elevate valuables and electrical components. Water doesn’t need much time to destroy what took years to build. 3. Protect Your Business Like Your Livelihood Depends on It — Because It Does Businesses face unique risks during hurricanes, and many never reopen after a major storm. Preparation is survival. • Back up all digital files and secure physical records. • Protect inventory and equipment from wind and water. • Establish a communication tree for employees. • Review insurance coverage and document your assets with photos and serial numbers. • Secure signage, outdoor fixtures, and anything that can become a projectile. • If you operate a training facility, range, or classroom environment, ensure all firearms, ammunition, and medical supplies are secured according to best practices and legal requirements. A business that prepares early recovers faster — and serves its community when it’s needed most. 4. Build a Practical, Realistic Supply Kit Whether at home or at work, your kit should support at least 72 hours of independence. • Water and shelf stable food • First aid and trauma supplies • Flashlights, batteries, and backup lighting • Medications and hygiene items • Tools, gloves, and protective gear • NOAA weather radio • Cash — because power outages take down card systems • For responsible firearm owners: secure storage, spare batteries for optics, and a plan for transport if evacuation becomes necessary Preparedness is not about fear. It’s about capability. 5. Strengthen Your Digital and Communication Readiness Storms disrupt communication when you need it most. • Keep phones charged and store key contacts offline. • Use group messaging or apps that work on low bandwidth. • Photograph your home, business, and assets before the season begins — documentation speeds up recovery. • Enable emergency alerts on all devices. Information is a survival tool. Treat it like one. 6. After the Storm: Safety First, Always Once the storm passes, the danger isn’t over. • Avoid downed power lines and flooded areas. • Use generators outdoors only — carbon monoxide kills quietly. • Document damage before moving anything. • Check on neighbors, employees, and vulnerable community members. • Be cautious with tools, ladders, and debris — post storm injuries are common. Recovery is a team effort. Community matters. Kielma’s Parting Shot: Prepare NOW Hurricane Season 2026 doesn’t have to be stressful. With preparation, awareness, and consistent habits, we turn uncertainty into confidence. We protect our families, our businesses, and our communities by taking action early — not when the wind is already picking up. Preparedness is leadership. Preparedness is responsibility. Preparedness is peace of mind. Gregg Kielma
How to Prepare For and Survive a Nuclear Attack By Gregory Kielma, Tactical K Training & Firearms 04/12/2026 Most people don’t want to think about nuclear threats — and that’s exactly why so many families and businesses are unprepared. Preparedness isn’t fear. It’s leadership. It’s responsibility. And it’s the difference between chaos and survivability when the unthinkable happens. A nuclear detonation is one of the most extreme emergencies any community can face, but the truth is simple: your actions in the first minutes and hours matter more than anything else. With the right mindset and a few practical steps, you dramatically increase your chances of protecting yourself and the people who count on you. 1. Understand the Threat Without Panic A nuclear attack doesn’t automatically mean total destruction. The impact depends on: • Distance from the blast • Size of the device • Terrain and building structure • Wind and weather patterns Most people outside the immediate blast zone survive the initial detonation. What matters next is avoiding fallout and reducing radiation exposure. Your goal is simple: get inside, stay inside, and stay informed. 2. Build a Realistic Nuclear Preparedness Plan Preparedness doesn’t require bunkers or doomsday gear. It requires clarity, communication, and consistency. Your plan should include: • A designated shelter location (home, business, or a nearby structure) • A communication plan for family or employees • A “stay kit” with essentials for 24–72 hours • A backup plan if you’re away from home Just like fire drills or active threat training, nuclear preparedness is about removing confusion before it costs lives. 3. Know Where to Shelter Your best protection is distance, density, and shielding. Best shelter options: • Basements • Interior rooms with no windows • Large concrete or brick buildings • Underground parking structures Avoid: • Vehicles • Mobile homes • Rooms with large windows • Being outdoors The goal is to put as much heavy material as possible between you and the radioactive particles settling outside. 4. What To Do the Moment You See a Flash If you see a bright flash — brighter than the sun — you have seconds to act. Immediate steps: • Turn away from the flash • Drop to the ground • Cover your head and exposed skin • After the shockwave passes, get inside the nearest solid structure Do not try to watch the blast. Do not run toward windows. Your priority is survival, not curiosity. 5. Once Inside: Seal, Stay, and Stay Put Fallout begins settling within minutes. Inside your shelter: • Close doors and windows • Turn off HVAC systems that pull outside air • Move to the lowest, most central area • Use available materials (furniture, books, concrete walls) as shielding • Stay put for at least 24 hours unless authorities say otherwise Radiation drops rapidly over time. The first 24 hours are the most dangerous. 6. Your 24–72 Hour Survival Kit This isn’t a “prepper” kit — it’s a responsible household and business standard. Include: • Water (1 gallon per person per day) • Non perishable food • Flashlights and batteries • First aid kit • N95 masks or cloth coverings • Battery or crank radio • Medications • Plastic sheeting and tape • Power bank • Copies of IDs and emergency contacts If you run a business, keep a kit on site just like you would an AED or trauma kit. 7. Communication and Information Cell networks may be overloaded or damaged. Your best tool is a battery or crank radio tuned to emergency broadcasts. Do not leave shelter until: • Officials announce it is safe • You must evacuate due to structural damage • You are in immediate danger Leadership in these moments means staying calm, staying informed, and keeping others grounded. Kielma’s Parting Shot: Long-Term Mindset - Preparedness Is Protection You don’t prepare because you expect disaster. You prepare because your family, your students, and your community deserve leadership, not luck. A nuclear attack is survivable for most people outside the immediate blast zone — if they act quickly and intelligently. That’s why training matters. That’s why planning matters. And that’s why responsible citizens take preparedness seriously. Preparedness isn’t panic. Preparedness is confidence. Preparedness is responsibility. Preparedness is survival. — Gregory Kielma Tactical K Training & Firearms
Protecting Our Homes, Businesses, and Families in Today’s Global Conditions By Gregory Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms The world feels different today. Global tensions, economic uncertainty, rising crime in some regions, and the constant flow of information—accurate or not—can leave families and business owners feeling exposed. But uncertainty doesn’t mean helplessness. With the right mindset and a layered approach to safety, we can protect what matters most: our homes, our businesses, and the people we love. 1. Start With Awareness, Not Anxiety Awareness is the foundation of all security. It’s not paranoia—it’s paying attention to what’s happening around you, understanding your environment, and recognizing when something feels off. • Know your neighborhood’s patterns. • Stay informed through reliable sources. • Teach your family or staff to trust their instincts and speak up when something doesn’t look right. Awareness costs nothing, but it prevents more problems than any piece of equipment ever will. 2. Strengthen the Physical Security Layer Whether it’s your home or business, criminals look for easy opportunities. Your goal is to remove those opportunities. • Reinforce doors, windows, and entry points. • Install quality lighting—darkness is an ally to the wrong people. • Use cameras and alarms that notify you instantly. • Keep landscaping trimmed to eliminate hiding spots. Physical security is your first line of defense, and it sends a clear message: this is not an easy target. 3. Protect Your Digital Front Door Cyber threats are just as real as physical ones. Families and businesses must treat digital security as seriously as locks and alarms. • Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication. • Keep software and devices updated. • Teach kids and employees how to recognize phishing attempts. • Back up important data regularly. A single click can compromise your entire household or business. Digital discipline is non-negotiable. 4. Build a Culture of Preparedness Preparedness isn’t fear—it’s responsibility. • Have emergency plans for fire, medical issues, severe weather, or intruders. • Make sure everyone knows how to call for help. • Keep first aid supplies, flashlights, and essential tools accessible. • Train your family or staff in basic first aid and situational awareness. Prepared people stay calmer, make better decisions, and recover faster. 5. Responsible Personal Protection In uncertain times, many people turn to personal protection tools. With that comes responsibility. • Seek proper training—not just in how to use equipment, but when and why. • Understand the laws in your area. • Practice safe storage, especially around children. • Maintain your equipment and your skills. Protection is not about fear or intimidation. It’s about ensuring you can defend yourself and your loved ones ethically, legally, and effectively if there is no other option. 6. Strengthen Your Community Connections Safety is a team effort. • Get to know your neighbors. • Support local businesses. • Participate in community safety programs. • Share information when appropriate. A connected community is a safer community. 7. Stay Calm, Stay Consistent The world may feel unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. Consistency is what keeps families safe and businesses resilient. • Review your safety plans regularly. • Update your equipment as needed. • Keep training, keep learning, and keep improving. Preparedness is not a one-time task—it’s a lifestyle. Kielma’s Final Thoughts We can’t control global events, but we can control how we prepare, how we respond, and how we protect the people and places that matter. Safety is not about living in fear—it’s about living with confidence. When we combine awareness, training, and responsible action, we create stability in an unstable world. Gregg Kielma
Former Parrish Florida Gun Store Employee Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking Firearms and Ammunition to Convicted Felon Tuesday, April 7, 2026 Tampa, Florida – Frank Jude Petrone, Sr. (56, Parrish) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge William F. Jung to three years and one month in federal prison for trafficking in firearms and selling firearms and ammunition to a convicted felon. Petrone pleaded guilty on August 26, 2025. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court documents, on October 2, 2024, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office notified the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives that Petrone was selling firearms to an individual he knew to be a convicted felon. At the time, Petrone was a salesperson for a licensed gun store. On four separate occasions between October 2024 and January 2025, Petrone sold the convicted felon, acting as a confidential source, four firearms and 146 rounds of ammunition. Federal law prohibits selling firearms to a convicted felon, and a convicted felon cannot pass the National Instant Criminal Background Check System. On October 17, 2024, Petrone sold a .357 Taurus International 605 Poly Protector revolver and 10 rounds of .357 ammunition to the confidential source. On November 8, 2024, Petrone sold a 9mm Sig Sauer M18 semi-automatic pistol and 57 rounds of ammunition to the confidential source. On January 2, 2025, Petrone sold a .45 TISAS 1911A1 semi-automatic pistol and 50 rounds of ammunition to the confidential source. During that transaction, Petrone also offered to sell a machinegun with an obliterated serial number. On January 28, 2025, Petrone sold a CZ Scorpion 9-millimeter pistol (not a machinegun), loaded with 29 of a possible 50 rounds of ammunition, to the confidential source. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office . It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam W. McCall. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Updated April 7, 2026
Wearing Protective Clothing and Body Armor in Public: A Practical Guide from Tactical K Training and Firearms Gregg Kielma 4/10/2026 In today’s world, personal safety isn’t something you leave to chance. At Tactical K Training and Firearms , we teach students to think ahead, understand their environment, and make decisions that reduce risk long before a threat ever appears. Protective clothing and body armor fit into that mindset — not as a sign of fear, but as a tool for preparedness, just like a seatbelt or a fire extinguisher. Understanding the Purpose of Protective Gear Protective clothing and body armor are designed to give you a margin of safety when the unexpected happens. They don’t make you invincible, and they don’t replace awareness, avoidance, or good judgment. What they do provide is a layer of protection that can buy you time, reduce injury, and increase your chances of surviving a violent encounter. For many responsible citizens, especially those who carry concealed, protective gear is simply another part of their personal safety plan. Types of Protective Clothing and Armor • Soft Armor (Level II, IIIA) — Flexible, lightweight, and suitable for daily wear under normal clothing. Designed to protect against common handgun threats. • Hard Plates (Level III, IV) — Heavier and more rigid, intended for rifle protection. These are typically worn in plate carriers and are more appropriate for specific roles or high risk environments. • Cut Resistant or Slash Resistant Clothing — Useful for individuals working in public facing roles or environments where edged weapons are a concern. • Impact Resistant Gear — Gloves, reinforced jackets, and protective eyewear can reduce injuries during physical confrontations or accidents. Each option has strengths and limitations. The key is matching the gear to your lifestyle, environment, and realistic threat profile. Wearing Armor in Public: What You Need to Know In most states, including Florida, it is legal for law abiding citizens to wear body armor in public. However, legality doesn’t replace responsibility. At Tactical K Training and Firearms , we emphasize three core principles: 1. Blend In, Don’t Stand Out Armor should support your safety, not draw attention. Concealable options allow you to move through public spaces without alarming others or making yourself a target. 2. Know the Law While wearing armor is legal for most people, individuals with certain criminal convictions may be restricted. Always verify your local and state regulations. 3. Train With Your Gear Armor changes your posture, mobility, and heat retention. If you plan to wear it, you need to practice drawing, moving, and problem solving while wearing it. Gear you don’t train with becomes a liability. When Protective Clothing Makes Sense People choose to wear protective gear for many reasons: • Working in public facing roles • Traveling through unfamiliar or high risk areas • Attending large events • Carrying concealed and wanting an added layer of safety • Personal preference based on lifestyle or past experiences There is no single “right” reason — what matters is that the decision is informed, lawful, and part of a broader safety mindset. Kielma’s Parting Shot: It’s a Mindset, Not a Statement Wearing protective clothing or armor isn’t about projecting toughness. It’s about valuing your life and the lives of those you protect. At Tactical K Training and Firearms , we teach that preparedness is quiet, disciplined, and rooted in responsibility. Armor is just one more tool that supports that philosophy. If you choose to incorporate protective gear into your daily routine, do it with intention, knowledge, and respect for the responsibility that comes with it. Gregg Kielma
What To Do If Your Firearm Is Stolen From Your Home or Vehicle By Gregory Kielma, Tactical K Training and Firearms 4/10/2026 As responsible gun owners, we prepare for many scenarios — but few situations feel more violating or stressful than discovering a firearm has been stolen. Whether it’s taken from your home or your vehicle, the way you respond in the next few hours matters. It affects your legal protection, the chances of recovery, and the safety of your community. This guide walks you through the exact steps you should take if you ever find yourself in this situation. 1. Stay Calm and Confirm the Firearm Is Actually Missing Before assuming theft, take a moment to verify: • Did someone else in the household move it? • Was it stored in a secondary safe or case? • Was it recently transported to the range or vehicle? Once you’ve confirmed it’s truly missing, act immediately. Time is your ally. 2. Contact Law Enforcement Right Away A stolen firearm is a serious matter, and reporting it promptly protects you legally and helps prevent that firearm from being used in a crime. When you call law enforcement, be prepared to provide: • Make, model, and caliber • Serial number • Any unique markings or accessories • Where it was stored • When you last saw it • How you believe it was taken If the theft occurred from a vehicle, tell them whether there were signs of forced entry. If it was taken from your home, note any suspicious activity, break ins, or missing property. Request a copy of the police report or case number. You’ll need it for insurance, documentation, and follow up. 3. Notify Your Local Sheriff’s Office or State Agency (If Required) Some states require additional reporting beyond the initial police report. Even if your state doesn’t mandate it, notifying local authorities ensures the firearm is entered into national databases quickly. In Florida, reporting promptly is strongly recommended to protect yourself from liability and to assist in recovery efforts. 4. Inform ATF If the Firearm Was Registered on a Form 1 or Form 4 If the stolen firearm is an NFA item (suppressor, SBR, SBS, etc.), you must notify the ATF using ATF Form 3310.11 – Federal Firearms Licensee Theft/Loss Report. Even as a private owner, you are required to report the loss of an NFA item. 5. Contact Your Insurance Provider If you have: • Homeowners insurance • Renters insurance • A firearms-specific rider • A safe or equipment policy …you may be eligible for reimbursement. Provide them with: • The police report number • Photos of the firearm (if available) • Purchase receipts or documentation Insurance companies often require proof of secure storage, so be prepared to explain how the firearm was stored at the time of the theft. 6. Notify Your Local Gun Shops and Pawn Shops Many stolen firearms eventually show up in: • Pawn shops • Secondhand gun stores • Gun shows Provide them with: • Serial number • Make and model • Your contact information • The police case number They cannot legally return the firearm to you directly, but they can alert law enforcement if it appears. 7. Strengthen Your Security Immediately A theft is a wake up call. After reporting the incident, take steps to prevent it from happening again: • Upgrade your safe or lockbox • Add vehicle lockboxes if you must store a firearm in your car • Install cameras or motion lighting • Reinforce doors, windows, or garage access points • Avoid leaving firearms in vehicles overnight Criminals often return to the same location if they believe more firearms are present. 8. Follow Up Periodically Law enforcement agencies handle thousands of cases. A polite follow up every few weeks keeps your case active and ensures your information stays current. If your firearm is recovered, you’ll be contacted — but staying engaged increases the odds. Kielma’s Parting Shot: A stolen firearm is more than a loss of property — it’s a threat to public safety and a liability for the owner. Acting quickly, documenting everything, and reinforcing your security are the best ways to protect yourself and your community. Responsible ownership doesn’t end when a firearm goes missing. It begins again with how you respond. Gregg Kielma
Can Someone Accuse You of Pointing a Finger and Claim It Was a Firearm? By Gregory Kielma As a firearms instructor, I get asked all kinds of questions about what people can accuse you of, especially in tense situations. One that comes up more often than you’d think is this: “If I point my finger, a phone, or some other object at someone, can they claim I pointed a gun at them?” The short answer is yes — a person can claim almost anything. The real issue is whether that claim holds up under investigation, evidence, and the law. 1. Anyone Can Make an Accusation — That Doesn’t Make It True People report things based on: • Fear • Misinterpretation • Anger • Poor visibility • Emotional reactions Law enforcement has to respond to the report, but that doesn’t mean the accusation is automatically valid. 2. What Matters Is Evidence When police investigate a “pointing a firearm” allegation, they look for: • A firearm present on scene • Witness statements • Surveillance video • Body worn camera footage • Physical evidence • Consistency in the reporting person’s story If all you did was point a finger, a pen, a phone, or gesture with your hand, and there’s no firearm, the evidence will reflect that. 3. Intent Matters Too Most states require some level of intent to threaten or cause fear for a charge like “aggravated assault with a firearm.” Pointing a finger in a casual or non threatening way is not the same as brandishing a weapon. But if someone felt threatened, they may still call the police — and that’s why your behavior, tone, and body language matter. 4. Why These Situations Get Messy In my experience teaching firearms safety and conflict avoidance, misunderstandings happen when: • Tempers are high • People are already nervous • Someone assumes the worst • Someone wants to “win” an argument • Someone is unfamiliar with firearms and panics This is why I always teach students: your best weapon is your judgment. 5. Protect Yourself With Good Habits You can’t control what someone accuses you of, but you can control your conduct: • Avoid escalating arguments • Keep your hands visible and non threatening • Walk away when possible • Use calm, clear communication • Never mimic a firearm with your hands in a heated situation These habits reduce misunderstandings and protect you legally and personally. Kielma’s Parting Shot: Accusations are easy to make. Evidence is what matters. And your behavior — especially as a responsible gun owner — is what keeps you out of unnecessary trouble. Gregg Kielma
The Face of a Tyrant Coward: Chicago Mayor Brad Johnson **Report by Gregory Kielma**: Anti‑Gun Chicago Mayor Spends $30 Million a Year on His Armed Security Detail** Recent reporting out of Chicago has revealed a striking contradiction between the city’s political messaging on firearms and the personal security practices of its leadership. According to multiple sources, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson — a vocal supporter of some of the most restrictive gun-control measures in Illinois — is protected by an armed security detail that rivals or exceeds that of any major U.S. mayor. Estimates place the cost of this protection at approximately $30 million per year, funded entirely by taxpayers. A Security Force Larger Than Many City Units Reports indicate that Mayor Johnson’s protective detail includes up to 150 Chicago Police Department officers, a dramatic expansion compared to previous administrations. For context, former Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s detail reportedly used around 90 officers — a number that was already controversial. Johnson’s detail now surpasses that, making it one of the largest mayoral protection units in the country. To put this in perspective, only 130 full‑time officers are assigned to patrol the entire Chicago Transit Authority system — 79 stations, 146 platforms, and 335 trains. That means the mayor has more officers guarding him personally than the number assigned to protect millions of daily commuters. Taxpayer Burden and Expanding Costs While salary costs alone are estimated at $22.5 million annually, the total cost — including overtime, vehicles, logistics, and specialized equipment — pushes the figure beyond $30 million per year. This level of expenditure has drawn scrutiny, especially as the city faces ongoing challenges with violent crime, youth victimization, and strained police resources. Policy Contradictions and Public Perception The controversy is not simply about whether a mayor should have security. Public officials often require protection. The issue, as highlighted by the National Shooting Sports Foundation and other commentators, is the double standard: strict gun-control policies for the public, paired with expansive armed protection for political leadership. Mayor Johnson has supported Illinois’ bans on certain semiautomatic rifles and magazine capacities, praising court decisions that upheld these restrictions as “important steps” for public safety. Yet his own security relies on the very tools and personnel that ordinary residents are increasingly restricted from accessing. Two Sets of Rules Commentary from constitutional analysts frames this as a “two‑tier theory of safety”: Protected class: public officials with taxpayer‑funded armed security Restricted class: ordinary residents facing tighter limits on lawful self‑defense tools This tension fuels public cynicism, especially in a city where violent crime remains a persistent concern. Kielma's Parting Shot The debate surrounding Mayor Johnson’s security detail is not merely about budget numbers — it’s about trust, consistency, and the message sent to the public. When leadership relies on extensive armed protection while advocating policies that limit the defensive options of law‑abiding citizens, the disconnect becomes impossible to ignore. As someone who trains responsible gun owners and emphasizes personal preparedness, I believe transparency and consistency are essential. Chicago residents deserve a clear explanation for why their mayor requires one of the largest armed security details in the nation while they are asked to accept increasingly restrictive limits on their own ability to stay safe.
Firearms in National and State Parks: What Responsible Gun Owners Need to Know By Gregory Kielma, Tactical K Training and Firearms Firearms and America’s public lands have a long, intertwined history. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or traveling through one of our national or state parks, understanding the laws that govern firearm possession is essential. As responsible gun owners, we don’t just carry for protection — we carry with knowledge, intention, and respect for the places we visit. Federal Law: National Parks and National Wildlife Refuges Since 2010, federal law has allowed individuals to possess firearms in national parks and national wildlife refuges as long as they comply with the firearm laws of the state in which the park is located. In other words, state law controls. If you can legally carry in that state — whether concealed or open — you can generally carry in the national park within that state. However, there are important exceptions: Federal facilities remain gun‑free zones. This includes visitor centers, ranger stations, administrative buildings, and maintenance facilities. These locations are required to post signage at entrances. Firearm discharge is prohibited except in lawful self‑defense. Recreational shooting is not allowed in national parks unless specifically designated. State Parks: A Patchwork of Rules State parks operate under state law, and the rules vary widely. Some states mirror their general carry laws, while others impose additional restrictions. In Florida where I reside, for example, lawful concealed carry is permitted in state parks, and this aligns with the state’s broader recognition of the right to self‑defense. Other states may restrict carry, limit open carry, or prohibit firearms in certain facilities. Before traveling, always verify: Whether the state recognizes your permit (if applicable) Whether open or concealed carry is allowed Whether firearms are prohibited in campgrounds, buildings, or recreational areas Whether magazine or ammunition restrictions apply Transporting Firearms Through Parks Even when carry is allowed, responsible transport matters: Keep firearms secured and under your control Follow all state vehicle transport laws Store firearms safely when not carried on your person Be mindful of crossing state lines — reciprocity changes instantly For those traveling long distances, especially across multiple states, planning ahead prevents legal surprises. Why This Matters for Responsible Owners Carrying in parks isn’t about “bringing guns into nature.” It’s about acknowledging reality: wildlife encounters, remote locations, and delayed emergency response times can create situations where self‑defense becomes necessary. But with that right comes responsibility: Know the law Respect posted restrictions Maintain muzzle discipline and safe handling at all times Understand that negligent discharge in a park environment can have serious consequences for people, wildlife, and the land itself Kielma's Final Thoughts Our national and state parks belong to all of us. As responsible firearm owners, we set the example for how to carry safely, legally, and respectfully in these shared spaces. Education is the foundation of responsible ownership, and understanding the laws surrounding firearms in parks is part of that commitment. If you have questions about lawful carry, safe transport, or training for outdoor environments, Tactical K Training and Firearms is here to help. Knowledge builds confidence — and confidence builds safety. Gregg Kielma
