Gregory Kielma • November 17, 2023
Washington Post In Full Politicized Vulture Mode With Publication Gory Mass Shooting Picture
By
Jennifer Sensiba
November 17, 2023
Says FFL, Firearms Instructor and Gunsmith Kielma, Ms. Buzzbe, we can talk anytime and let's go on record and figure this out. Call me and let’s set up a day. Email; is good as well. kielmagregory@gmail.com
Kielma
continues, remember the picture above.
After recent mass shootings, I’ve seen a particularly unhinged request in comments sections: publish images of the dead. It seemed for months like nobody was going to answer that ugly call, but after warnings from some of the victims’ parents, the Washington
Post ran a non-paywalled post yesterday doing just that. I will not be sharing links to it, but it shows a lot of bloody images of school shootings and other attacks. One photo included showed bodies left behind after the Las Vegas shooting.
The media, of course, has every right to do this. The images are mostly taken from law enforcement evidence and those that were published were obtained by WaPo lawfully.
But just because you can legally do something doesn’t mean it’s morally right. Particularly when you do it as selectively and cynically as the Washington Post has. The Post has published only photos from shootings carried out by killers with AR-15 rifles. It’s chosen images designed to shock in a clearly politicized attempt to whip up opposition to “assault weapon” ownership.
The fact that shootings with ARs constitutes a tiny minority of all shootings in America — even using the inflated numbers cited by the WaPo from the debunked Gun Violence Archive — didn’t warrant a mention by the paper. The implication here is that that the aftermaths of shootings committed with ARs are somehow more bloody or shocking than those carried out with other weapons like shotguns, handguns, knives, or bombs.
That, of course, is false. But the Post’s editors had a cynical political point to make and didn’t care about the effect the published photos might have on victims’ families or survivors.
Parents’ Opposition
The only reason we knew ahead of time that the Washington Post was going to publish this activist stunt was that many of the parents and relatives of the shooting victims expressed their opposition on social media.
Here’s a tweet from Kimberly Garcia, a parent of a child who died at Uvalde, begging social media users to not look at the images and to not share them. I chose to honor her request and did not include links in this article.
Phillips revealed the date of publication and said she knew why WaPo intended to do it. They supposedly want the public to “better understand the trauma” associated with these shootings so that the public can know what it’s like to be a victim of them or a responder who has to deal with them.
A responsible newspaper does not publish such upsetting images lightly, but doing so showcases the destructive force of the AR-15 in a way words fail to do.
The fact remains that the Washington Post knows that the families and friends of the dead will suffer emotional harm from the publication of these photos. That’s clear from their attempt to reach out to give them a “heads up.”
But none of that ultimately mattered. The Post concluded that the political and potential anti-gun benefits of publishing the images outweighed any trauma and harm they might do to the shooting victims’ parents and survivors.
People Already Understand
Make no mistake…these images were released under a false pretext. Just about everyone knows the pain of losing a loved one. Almost everyone has lost a loved one, whether it was a grandparent when you were a child or a parent when you were older. Whatever age you might be, you’ve probably lost friends and family to accidents or illness. . Some of us have witnessed death first-hand.
But because journalists generally do not have access to crime scenes and news organizations rarely if ever publish graphic content, most Americans have no way to understand the full scope of an AR-15’s destructive power or the extent of the trauma inflicted on victims, survivors and first responders when a shooter uses this weapon on people.
Releasing gory images, however, doesn’t improve our ability to empathize with those who’ve lost their loved ones. We already know what it’s like to lose people close to us. That pain runs just as deep whether the cause of death was old age, cancer, or a deranged killer who took them from us.
That I had to take a break from writing after typing that last paragraph (and you may have needed a break after reading it) is proof enough that most of us know what it’s like already. We get it. We understand completely.
In the end, we decided that there is public value in illuminating the profound and repeated devastation left by tragedies that are often covered as isolated news events but rarely considered as part of a broader pattern of violence.
The goal here, however, wasn’t to increase understanding or empathy, let alone illumination. The Post didn’t include photos of the aftermath of the Virginia Tech shooting (32 dead, handguns), an average weekend in Chicago (scores shot, double digit fatalities, also using handguns), or the University of Idaho stabbings, or the Wisconsin parade attack (SUV).
The goal here was to shock people into supporting gun control laws, possibly another “assault weapons” ban. The bloody images were published to get people in a mental state where they suspend their critical thinking skills and are open to the idea that limits on gun rights will solve the problem. It’s an intentionally deceptive, manipulative assault on the human mind and soul designed to create a political opening that statism can exploit.
This Is The Behavior Of Vultures, Not Humans
When a death happens in the desert, it isn’t long at all before the ecosystem gets to work recycling the materials that once enabled life. Why? Because nature is a brutal place. If an animal doesn’t take advantage of every opportunity for sustenance, that animal will themselves be dead before too long. Vultures specialize in this and have excellent vision in order to spot such opportunities from high in the air.
But, as humans, this is not our way. We aren’t made and/or evolved to seek out the dead and take advantage of them. It’s in our nature to care about each other, even after they’re gone. We honor our dead and remember them instead of looking for ways to use and take advantage of them.
The fact of gun control’s failure has driven the so-called journalists at the Washington Post to this kind of ghoulish desperation. They’re behaving more like members of the Donner Party, using the dead to benefit themselves and further their own interests. They’re so invested in civilian disarmament that they’ll do anything to try to revive their cause, no matter the cost to the people who were affected or their own humanity.
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Why Monitoring Your Blood Pressure Matters By Gregg Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms 01/20/2026 As an ERT Captain and certified instructor, I provide blood pressure checks, if wanted, during all my classes I offer. This has helped us detect clients with potentially serious heart issues they were unaware of. While not a physician, I can identify critical warning signs requiring further attention. High blood pressure is often called the “silent threat” for a reason—it rarely shows symptoms, yet it can quietly damage your heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and brain over time. Regular monitoring is one of the simplest and most effective steps people can take to protect their long-term health. Checking your blood pressure at home gives you real time insight into how your body responds to daily stress, diet, sleep, and activity. It helps you catch changes early, long before they turn into serious medical problems. For many people, home monitoring also provides more accurate readings than occasional doctor visits, since it removes the stress and pressure of the clinical environment. Consistent tracking empowers you to make informed decisions about your lifestyle and health. It allows you to share accurate data with your healthcare provider, helping them tailor treatment, adjust medications, or recommend preventive steps. In short, monitoring your blood pressure isn’t just a habit—it’s a form of self-protection and early detection that can truly save lives. Thank you for taking the time to read this and help save your life or others. If you have any questions, please let know. Gregg Kielma
Why Some Virginia Lawmakers Push for Strict Gun Laws and Bans By Gregg Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms 01-19-2026 Debates over firearm legislation in Virginia have intensified in recent years, with several lawmakers proposing sweeping restrictions on gun ownership, magazine capacity, and permitting requirements. While these proposals are controversial and often opposed by responsible gun owners, it’s important to understand the motivations driving them. Knowing the “why” behind these efforts helps gun owners stay informed, engaged, and prepared to advocate for their rights. 1. Rising Concerns About Public Safety and Gun Violence Many Virginia legislators argue that stricter gun laws are necessary to address concerns about public safety. Bills such as SB1109, introduced in 2025, aim to tighten handgun purchase regulations and expand background checks, reflecting a belief that limiting access will reduce misuse. Supporters claim these measures are intended to prevent firearms from falling into the hands of individuals who may pose a risk. 2. A Push for More Comprehensive Vetting Several proposals focus on expanding the vetting process for firearm permits. These include: • Mandatory fingerprinting • More extensive background checks • Reviews of criminal history and mental health records These measures are framed as efforts to ensure only “qualified” individuals can obtain permits. While many responsible gun owners already exceed these standards through training and safe practices, lawmakers argue that uniform statewide requirements are necessary. 3. Influence of Gun Control Advocacy Groups Organizations that support firearm restrictions have become increasingly active in Virginia. Groups promoting “evidence based” gun violence prevention policies advocate for licensing systems, storage mandates, and magazine bans as ways to reduce crime and accidental shootings. Their messaging often influences legislative priorities, especially in districts where voters favor tighter regulations. 4. Political Shifts in Key Regions Urban and suburban areas of Virginia — particularly Northern Virginia — have grown rapidly and tend to elect representatives who support stricter gun laws. These lawmakers often cite constituent pressure to pass bans on certain firearms or accessories, such as the proposed magazine ban highlighted in recent legislative discussions. 5. A Belief That Restrictions Will Reduce Crime Some legislators believe that limiting access to certain firearms or magazines will reduce violent crime. For example, proposals to raise penalties for violent offenders using firearms are framed as crime reduction strategies. While critics argue that these laws target lawful gun owners instead of criminals, supporters maintain that restrictions are part of a broader public safety strategy. Kielma’s Parting Shot Virginia’s push for strict gun laws is driven by a combination of political pressure, advocacy influence, public safety concerns, and shifting demographics. Whether or not these laws are effective is a separate debate — but understanding the motivations behind them helps responsible gun owners stay informed and engaged. Gregg Kielma
Outside The Waste Band Holster. Open Carry Understanding Brandishing or Improperly Exposing a Firearm By Gregg Kielma_ Tactical K Training and Firearms 01/19/2026 I always field questions during training classes about brandishing a firearm in public, what are the consequences and how will it impact my life, my career or my family’s life? Let’s take a LOOK: My Thoughts Brandishing — or improperly exposing a firearm — is one of the most misunderstood areas of firearms law. Many gun owners assume that if they don’t point a gun at someone, they’re safe from legal trouble. The law takes a much broader view. Knowing what qualifies as brandishing is essential for every responsible gun owner. What “Brandishing” Actually Means Across most jurisdictions, brandishing refers to displaying a firearm in a threatening, intimidating, or aggressive manner. Importantly, the firearm does not need to be pointed at anyone for the act to be considered brandishing. According to legal sources: Even unintentional exposure can lead to accusations if someone feels threatened. • Brandishing is the act of displaying a firearm “to intimidate, threaten, or cause fear in another person”. • It includes “displaying, waving, or showing a weapon in a manner that is threatening or intended to intimidate”. • The key elements often include: o Another person is present o The display is aggressive or alarming o The intent (or perceived intent) is to cause fear What Brandishing Is Not: Context matters — and perception matters even more. If a reasonable person would feel threatened, the situation can escalate quickly. • Simply carrying a firearm in a lawful manner • Printing or accidental brief exposure while concealed carrying • Displaying a firearm in a non-threatening context (e.g., holstering at a range, cleaning at home) Potential Legal Consequences Brandishing is treated as a serious offense because of its potential to escalate into violence, even when no shot is fired. Depending on the state and circumstances, consequences may include: Criminal Charges • Misdemeanor or felony charges • Arrest and potential jail time • Heavy fines Loss of Firearm Rights • Suspension or revocation of concealed carry permits • Possible long-term loss of firearm ownership rights Civil Liability • Lawsuits from individuals who felt threatened • Financial damages for emotional distress or other claims Long-Term Impact • Criminal record • Loss of employment opportunities • Damage to reputation and credibility Why This Matters for Responsible Gun Owners I teach in my classes responsible firearm ownership and marksmanship, it matters. It’s about judgment, restraint, and understanding the law. Brandishing charges often arise from emotional reactions, poor decision-making, or misunderstandings that could have been avoided with proper training. A responsible gun owner should always: • Keep the firearm concealed unless legally justified to draw • Avoid escalating confrontations • Understand state-specific laws • Prioritize de-escalation, avoid, escape and as a last resort defend. Be the reasonable person. Always have a plan. Kielma’ Parting Shot Brandishing or improperly exposing a firearm is a serious legal matter with consequences that can follow a person for life. Education, awareness, and disciplined behavior are the best tools to prevent these situations. When gun owners understand the law and act responsibly, they protect not only themselves but the entire firearms community. Gregg Kielma
Wanda Kielma, Office Boss: A Life Defined by Strength, Service, and Steadfast Values Wanda Kielma i s a woman whose life reflects resilience, dedication, and a deep commitment to the people around her. Known for her unwavering work ethic and her ability to bring calm, order, and compassion into any environment, Wanda has earned the respect of colleagues, friends, and family alike. Raised with strong values and a clear sense of responsibility, Wanda built her reputation through decades of consistent service and leadership. Whether managing complex tasks, supporting others through challenges, or stepping into roles that demanded reliability and integrity, she has always been the person people could count on. Wanda’s professional life is marked by diligence and loyalty. She approaches every responsibility with a level of care that sets her apart—never cutting corners, never compromising her standards, and always putting people first. Her ability to balance firmness with kindness has made her a trusted presence in every setting she enters. Beyond her work, Wanda is the heart of her family . She is the steady voice of reason, the quiet force that keeps things moving forward, and the person who shows up—every time, without fail. Her strength is not loud or boastful; it’s the kind that’s built through years of perseverance, sacrifice, and love. Those who know Wanda describe her as grounded, dependable, and deeply principled. She leads not through titles or recognition, but through example. Her life is a reminder that true character is revealed in the everyday choices we make and the way we treat the people around us. In a world that often celebrates the flashy and the temporary, Wanda Kielma stands out for all the right reasons: her integrity, her humility, and her unwavering commitment to doing what’s right. Her legacy is one of quiet strength—and the countless lives she has touched along the way. Our God is Great Wanda Amen….Love you for everything you have done for the past 40 plus years....
Gregg Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms Who I Am and Why I Teach: A Personal Message from me, Gregg Kielma Owner of Tactical K Training and Firearms to You, My Family, Friends, Clients and Students Running Tactical K Training isn’t just a business for me — it’s a responsibility I take seriously. Every day, I meet people who want to become safer, more capable, and more confident in their own lives. My job is to give them the tools, the knowledge, and the mindset to do exactly that. I’ve spent years working with firearms, optics, equipment, and real-world defensive concepts. Over time, I’ve learned that skill alone isn’t enough. What matters most is judgment — knowing when to avoid, when to de-escalate, when to escape, and only as a last resort, how to defend yourself or your family. That philosophy guides everything I teach. My approach is simple: clear instruction, real world context, and respect for the responsibility that comes with firearm ownership. I don’t teach fantasy scenarios or “tactical cosplay.” I teach practical, lawful, life preserving skills that ordinary people can use under stress. Whether I’m helping someone mount their first optic, refine their dry fire routine, or understand Florida’s self-defense laws, my goal is always the same — empower them to make smart, safe decisions. I believe in building a community of responsible gun owners who value safety, education, and continuous improvement. That’s why I write articles, update my website, and stay engaged with students long after their class ends. Training isn’t a onetime event. It’s a mindset. If you train with me, you’ll get honesty, professionalism, and instruction tailored to your experience level. You’ll also get someone who genuinely cares about your growth and your safety. I’m proud of the work we do here, and I’m grateful for every student who trusts me to guide them. Stay safe, stay prepared, and keep learning. — Gregg Kielma Tactical K Training & Firearms
Tactical K Training and Firearms: Trust and Integrity What a Responsible FFL Dealer Looks Like: A Reflection on me Gregg Kielma, Tactical K Training and Firearms and How I Run My Business Gregg Kielma 01/18/2026 As someone who works closely with firearm owners, students, and members of our community, I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand what true responsibility in the firearms industry looks like. If you want an example of what a responsible Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer should be, you don’t have to look any further than Tactical K Training and Firearms and my staff. I don’t just hold an FFL — I embody the professionalism, integrity, and commitment to safety that the license represents. My Relentless Commitment to the Law One of the defining traits of a responsible FFL dealer is unwavering respect for federal, state, and local regulations. I approach compliance with the same seriousness I bring to every aspect of my work. We Always Ensure: • Every background check is completed thoroughly • Every form is accurate and properly maintained • Every ATF requirement is followed to the letter For myself, this isn’t about paperwork — it’s about protecting the community and upholding the trust placed in me as a licensed dealer. A Teacher at Heart: I’m a USCCA Firearms Instructor I understand that responsible firearm ownership begins with education. I don’t simply transfer firearms; I guide people through the process with patience, clarity, and genuine care. My clients understand: • Safe handling and storage • Legal responsibilities • Appropriate firearm selection • The importance of ongoing training I believe this approach ensures that every customer walks away not just with a firearm, but with the knowledge and confidence to own it responsibly. A Guardian of Community Safety As a responsible FFL dealer, I have to be very vigilant — and I take that responsibility seriously. I know the warning signs of straw purchases, suspicious behavior, and questionable intent. I’m not afraid to slow down, ask questions, or refuse a sale when something doesn’t feel right. That kind of integrity protects everyone. Professionalism You Can Trust As the owner of Tactical K Training and Firearms, we set a high standard in every part of our work. We value: • Honesty • Transparency • Respect • Secure handling and storage • Ethical business practices This professionalism builds trust — not just with clients, friends or family, but with the broader community that relies on responsible dealers to uphold the highest standards. A Positive Force in the Firearms Community When an FFL dealer operates with integrity, it strengthens the entire firearms ecosystem. My work supports lawful ownership, promotes education, and reinforces the culture of responsibility that keeps our communities safe. I’d like people to remember that the firearms industry is at its best when it is grounded in ethics, safety, and service. Gregg Kielma
Houston straw purchasing ring charged with smuggling firearms to North Korea Friday, January 9, 2026 U.S. Attorney's Office, Southern District of Texas Alleged ringleader was illegal alien from China with expired U.S. visa HOUSTON – Seven people have been charged for their alleged roles in a firearms trafficking scheme, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. The indictment alleges Chinese national Shenghua Wen, 39, whose U.S. visa expired in 2013, served as the ringleader. He has now made his appearance in Houston federal court. Also charged are Chinese nationals Sifu Zhao, 24, Yiyang Wu, 40, and Mingtong Tan, 27, who all resided in Houston; Jin Yang, 60, Ontario, California; Max Mingze Li, 36, Houston; and Richard Arredondo, 51, a U.S. citizen who resided in Mexicali, Mexico. According to the indictment returned Oct. 8, 2025, Wen and his girlfriend, Yang, purchased a gun store and directed the purchase of specific firearms and their sale to straw purchasers, such as Zhao, Tan, Wu, Mingze Li, and Arredondo. Wu also allegedly recruited one straw purchaser into the ring and transported pistols to a second Houston gun dealer for sale to others. Between 2023 and 2024, the group obtained approximately 170 firearms and several thousand rounds of ammunition that were destined for North Korea, according to the indictment. The charges allege Wen recruited Zhao and Tan to act as straw purchasers. They, along with Mingze Li and Arredondo, allegedly bought firearms on Wen’s behalf. Some of the firearms were later transported to another Houston firearms dealer for resale to members of the ring, according to the charges. Wen and Yang are charged with conspiracy and conspiracy to commit firearms trafficking which carry respective terms of five and 15 years in prison, upon conviction. Wen could also receive an additional five years if convicted on any of the seven counts of aiding and abetting false statements to a federal firearms licensee. Mingze Li, Arrendondo, Wu, Zhao and Tan each face one count of conspiracy and varying counts of aiding and abetting false statements to a federal firearms licensee with possible five-year maximum terms of imprisonment on all counts, upon conviction. All charges also carry as possible punishment a maximum $250,000 fine. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with assistance from Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations and Houston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Ganz is prosecuting the case. An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law. Updated January 9, 2026
Ohio Man Arrested and Charged for Firearms Dealing, Unlawful Possession of Firearms and Ammunition Wednesday, January 14, 2026 U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Massachusetts BOSTON – An Ohio man has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple sales of firearms transported from Ohio to Massachusetts. Ruben Joel Sanchez Jr., 31, was charged with one count of engaging in the business of dealing in firearms without a license and one count of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition . Sanchez made an initial appearance in federal court in Boston on Jan. 9, 2026. According to the charging documents, beginning at least as early as June 2025 through January 2026, Sanchez engaged in the business of unlawful trafficking in firearms. In June 2025, Sanchez, who is not licensed to deal in firearms, sold three firearms to an individual in exchange for $4,000. On Jan. 8, 2026, Sanchez was recorded and observed selling four additional firearms to the same individual in return for $8,500. When Sanchez was arrested at the scene, an AR-style pistol equipped with a loaded, 100-round drum; a rifle equipped with a loaded, 100-round drum; a loaded pistol equipped with an extended magazine; and an additional loaded pistol were recovered. The charge of felon in possession of firearms and ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, three of supervised release and a fine of up to $ 250,000. The charge of unlawful trafficking in firearms provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $ 250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julissa Walsh of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Updated January 14, 2026
9mm Hollow Point Ammo Hollow Point vs. Regular Range Ammo and How a Hollow Point Actually Works By Gregg Kielma 01/18/2026 New students often ask me about my everyday carry. I use a Glock 19 loaded with 9mm, 124-grain hollow points that I reload myself using new brass. I always keep one in the chamber for quick access. If needed when I take it out of its holster it’s ready to fire I do not have to rack the slide. This, in my opinion, saves me precious time. This is my plan, yours maybe different. Let’s Take a LOOK at range ammo and hollow points. These are my Thoughts. 1. What is a “regular range ammo round”? FMJ is inexpensive, reliable, and ideal for training. It’s not designed for controlled terminal performance. Most shooters mean FMJ (Full Metal Jacket) when they say, “range round.” FMJ bullets have: • A lead core fully enclosed in a copper jacket • A solid, rounded or pointed nose • Minimal or no expansion on impact • Straight-line penetration through soft targets 2. What is a Hollow point? This expansion round increases stopping effectiveness and reduces the risk of over penetration. A hollow point (HP) — often a Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) — has: • A cavity or hollow opening in the nose of the bullet • A jacket engineered to peel back or mushroom • A design purposefully built for expansion on impact 3. How a hollow point works (simple explanation): This controlled expansion is why hollow points are the standard for self-defense and law enforcement When a hollow point strikes soft tissue: 1. Fluid enters the cavity in the nose. 2. Pressure forces the bullet’s jacket and lead core to expand outward. 3. The bullet mushrooms, creating: o A larger wound channel o More energy transfer o Reduced penetration depth compared to FMJ 4. Key differences Range Ammo Hollow Point (JHP) Nose Design Solid Hollow Cavity On impact Minimal expansion Expands/mushrooms Penetration Often over penetrates Controlled, reduced Best use Training, target shooting Self defense Cost Low Higher 5. Why some ranges restrict hollow points Some ranges — especially indoor facilities — limit hollow points due to: • Backstop wear concerns • Ricochet management • Local policy or insurance requirements
