Guns, Gear and On Target Training

Many subscribers have asked us to talk about used firearms. The reality is you need to know what to look for. Yet, we've found the used police firearms often provide amazing opportunities to purchase a quality firearm at 40-50% off full retail. In this video we discuss one such police trade pistol, a 1st generation M&P 9mm pistol. Our M&P came from the FFL dealer in exceptional condition. It sported a standard capacity magazine, three dot night sights and no discernible wear. For those looking for a great deal on a quality pistol, consider used police trades.

For the past four weeks we've been testing and using the Wuben C3 flashlight. For the price point, we feel it';s a good value. This rechargeable light has a number of features that are impressive. https://www.wubenlight.com/collections/c-series/products/wuben-c3-1200-lumens-flashlight-for-everyday-carry Feel free to use the 20% off discount code: LLCC320 Here are the details: WUBENs powerful 1200 lumens flashlight uses a convex lens to improve overall brightness; A spiral pattern lamp head increases flood angle while protecting the lens. Equipped with an OSRAM P9 LED, with a maximum brightness output of 1200 lumens. 6 modes replace the need for multiple flashlights (high, medium, low, Eco-friendly, Strobe, SOS). It is powered by one 18650 battery and is compatible with 2 CR123A batteries. It uses an anti-reverse circuit and convenient Type-C interface direct charging technology, and uses a 5V / 2A Type-C interface cable to quickly charge the flashlight. Charging is faster than the micro-b interface, and the charging time is about 3 hours. This portable flashlight weighs 123g (with battery) and is 121.5mm * 25.4mm in size. It comes with a double clip hole for easy reverse. Reverse switch, easy to use, long life of the silicone button. Comes with a clip that fits in a pocket and fits in a backpack or purse for easy storage and quick use. Packing Include: 1x C3 Flashlight 1x ABE 2600 Rechargeable Li-ion Battery (Torch inside) 1x Type-C Charging cable 1x Lanyard 2x O-ring 1x Warranty Card/User Manual

We review the Wincent Elite RS Zero portable handgun safe. With a few different modes of access and leveraging RFID Technology, lithium batteries, and solid construction we were impressed with the value. Available at https://amzn.to/3wGnIIn This pistol safe uses the high frequency IC chip sensor RFID card with encryption technology that can not be decrypted, and also it will not be degaussed and invalid after being used for a long time. WINCENT handgun safe box with RFID is much safer than other brands' lockbox with ordinary RFID function on the market. 3 WAYS ENTRY QUICK ACCESS 1. The RFID of handgun safe is activated by placing the keyfob over the reader and instantly opens the lid. Come with 4 RFID fobs; 2. One silicone wristband fod as the emergency backup after it programs with the gun case; 3. Electronic Keypad with 4-Digital. This gun lock box with a safety high-capacity lithium battery, this gun lockbox can be used for more than 6 months after being fully charged. It is more environmentally friendly than AAA Alkaline batteries. The package of hand gun safe includes a free USB charge cable. This portable car gun safe for handgun is made of a precision-formed 18-gauge rugged steel enclosure. It comes with a security cable that can be secured to any fixed objects at home or in a vehicle. The gun box will self-lock for 100 seconds after 5 consecutive wrong codes or card errors. The exterior dimension of this pistol safe is 11" * 7" * 2" for handguns up to 8.5" in overall length. This gun lock box can be kept in a drawer, cabinet, luggage and placed at home, car, office, or some other location that's easy for usage. This small gun safe added a thick layer of memory foam to provide the best cushion performance, protecting your firearm and other valuables from scratching.

Anyone using a revolver with moon clips will have a love hate relationship with the moon clips. One the one hand they're fantastic for quickly loading or unloading the cylinder. On the other hand getting the rounds on, or off, the clip itself can bet a time consuming process. Well, it turns out there are some great tools made specifically for that task. In this video we discuss and demonstrate how and why these tools can improve the whole moon clip loading / unloading experience.

When evaluating what firearm might be appropriate for your personal protection needs, many people fail to consider that balancing speed and accuracy is critical. Some people believe just having a specific type of firearm, in a specific caliber will get the job done in an armed encounter. The reality is hits count. A .44 magnum that the operator can't hit the threat with is not as valuable a .380 where are the shots hit the threat. In addition it's critical to get training, practice and stress test your abilities. Plenty of people think they have the skills but under stress testing, it's obviously they are not prepared. In this video we demonstrate a few different firearms. These include a 9mm FTM braced pistol, a Glock 21 .45 ACP, the S&W M&P 9mm, a S&W 357 Magnum and the S&W 625 revolver (shooting .45 ACP). For speed and accuracy the suppressed 7" braced pistol was the clear winner. Whatever tool you choose for personal protection / home defense make sure your proficient with it! Stay safe.

We take a quick look at the TW20 Weapon light by Thrunite. For the price point, (less that $100), I think it's an excellent value for the money. I only have to points that I hope Thrunite will address. 1) The dedicated tail cap that doesn't include a way to operate the light without the pressure pad. 2) The location of the charging port on the light itself. Other than those two minor issues, we were impressed. Product available from multiples sources. Here is the link to Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QKMGBCZ?ref=myi_title_dp From the amazon page... Other details include: BRIGHT LED LIGHT: SST70 LED outputs up to 2532 lumens with a maximum 86.3 mins run time and capable of a 250 meters beam distance. RECHARGEABLE BATTERY: Powered by a built-in rechargeable battery and charged via USB-C cable. EASY OPERATION: The pressure switch is compatible with TW20 light for professional users to control it as a WML. Allow smooth momentary-on or constant-on activation. IPX-8 Waterproof: TW20 rechargeable flashlight is constructed from aluminium alloy with a black anodized anti-abrasive surface finish, IPX-8 water resistance allows the convenient usage in various weather conditions. QUICK MOUNT / DETACH: Easily attach the TW20 light with one hand - no tools needed! Simply snap-on and tighten.

We shoot the wonderful Savage Mark II. The TRR-SR, comes with plenty of great features. This includes the standard Savage Arms, Accutrigger that measured right at 2 lbs. Weight of the rifle is 7.85 pounds and OAL is 41". It felt really balanced to us. While this Mark II sports an interesting Picatinny rail system allowing the user to attach lights and lasers, rail, we preferred the rifle without the rail system. The 22" hard carbon steel barrel has a threaded muzzle, making it suppressor ready right out of the box. Accuracy was impressive. In spite of poor range conditions (rain, blowing wind and hail), we we able to get a couple of 1/4" inch groups. I'm sure it's capable of better results once we dial the ammo in. All testing was conducted with CCI standard velocity rounds. From the Savage Arms website: The Mark II TRR-SR features a black hardwood tactical stock and Picatinny rail system. Its 22-inch, heavy carbon steel barrel is button rifled and threaded for attachments. User-adjustable AccuTrigger™ technology is standard, as is a 5-round detachable box magazine. FEATURES Threaded, heavy barrel Tactical hardwood stock Picatinny rail system 5-round detachable box magazine AccuTrigger for a crisp, personalized trigger pull SPECIFICATIONS Bolt Action Barrel Color Black Barrel Finish Matte Barrel Length (in)/(cm) 22 / 55.880 Barrel Material Carbon Steel Caliber 22 LR Magazine Capacity 5, or 10 Magazine Detachable Box Magazine Overall Length (in)/(cm) 41 / 104.140 Rate of Twist (in) 1 in 16 Receiver Color Black Receiver Finish Matte Receiver Material Carbon Steel Stock Color Black Stock Finish Matte Stock Material Hardwood Stock Type Law Enforcement Weight (lb)/(kg) 7.85 / 3.56 MARK II TRR-SR

In this video we discuss a simple training aid (trick), that helps the user increase their switch from a front sight focus (with iron sights) to the "target focus" needed to maximize the use of the red dot. Much of this can be done with the dry practice using the technique shown in the video. Red dots are valuable tools but they will not help you if you're not committed to mastering the fundamentals of trigger management, sights alignment - sight picture, proper grip, stance and safety. Please share what you've done to increase your proficiency using red dots on your pistols. Stay safe.

At first I was a bit skeptical about this pistol. However once I shot it a bit I was blown away! Exceptional accuracy and controllability for micro compact 9mm pistol. Frankly, I think I'd prefer the 365XL... but this version was amazing in the hand and based on the shooting results I'd have to say, I'd feel well armed with this version! The Sig website states the following: "Featuring a 3.1 inch barrel, the XSeries grip module with a 12 round flush fit magazine brings a new level of performance to your EDC. The P365 redefined what a concealed-carry pistol should be. Featuring a 3.1 inch barrel, the XSeries grip module with a 12 round flush fit magazine. These features, along with the signature XSeries flat trigger, all come standard. The P365X maintains the crisp, clean P365 trigger pull. Never has so much versatility and capability been squeezed into such a perfectly concealable size. XSERIES 365 Grip Module Nitron Slide With XRAY3 Day/Night Front Sight XSERIES Flat Trigger Compatible with SIG SAUER ROMEOZero (2) 12 Round Steel Magazines"

We love revolvers and the Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 625 is a winner! The ability to shoot .45 ACP rounds in a revolver is wonderful for many reasons. First, is the gentle recoil generated by the slow moving heavy bullet. In the 625 the round feels almost gentle. Next, the user of moon clips, makes loading and unloading the revolver a breeze. Finally, who doesn't love an N-Frame S&W? With its fiber optic front sight, enhanced trigger and beautiful finish we feel you can't go wrong with this fine revolver! Product details: Model: 625 Frame Size: Large (N-Frame) Caliber: .45 ACP Capacity: 6 Rounds Action: Single/Double Action Barrel Length: 4” Rear Sight: S&W Adjustable Overall Length: 10-1/2” Weight: 42.0 oz. Frame Material: Stainless Steel Cylinder Material: Stainless Steel Finish: Satin Stainless Other Features: Deep Cut Broached Rifling Chamfered Charge Holes Performance Center Trigger Performance Center Action

For those looking for a reliable, accurate, and easy to use tool for home defense a braced pistols may be the ideal solution. Handguns such pistols and revolvers require a significant amount training and practice to gain (and maintain) a good level of proficiency. Long guns, carbines, and braced pistols are generally easier for most people to use. Further, braced pistols in popular calibers (9mm, .40 or .45 ACP) offer the user reliable performance, and depending on the specific ammunition, may be an ideal solution for those looking for a firearm for home defense. In this video we detail why a braced pistol or an SBR in a pistol caliber (especially when suppressed and a shooting subsonic rounds), should be seriously considered. Braced pistol caliber options, are easier to shoot, provided more capacity and less potential for over penetration in the home. Please let use know what tool you feel is ideal for home defense.

Lots of subscribers asked us to talk about the pros and cons of revolvers vs. semi automatic handguns. I believe both are sold, reliable defensive tools. Frankly, I'm less concerned with the tool and more interested in what the user can or can't do under the extreme stress of a gun fight. What matters most is the users training, skills and proficiency. Further, the are many misunderstanding regarding safety and reliability. Plus, many people fail to consider the economics of the tool and the ammunition. In this video (part 1) we discuss these misconceptions as well as my experiences using and teaching with both. Please share your thoughts and feedback!

Lots of subscribers have asked us to talk about the pros and cons of revolvers vs. semi automatic handguns. I believe both are sold, reliable defensive tools. Frankly, I'm less concerned with the tool (revolver or semi-auto) and more interested in what the user can or can't do under the extreme stress of a gun fight. What matters most is the users training, skills and proficiency. There are many misunderstanding regarding safety and reliability. Plus, many people fail to consider the economics of the tool and the ammunition. In this video (part 1) we discuss these misconceptions as well as my experiences using and teaching with both revolvers and semi-autos. In part 2 we'll discuss pros and cons of both in regards to loading, ammunition capacity, clearing stoppages, as well as testing our speed / accuracy under tight time frames. Please share your thoughts and feedback!

MidTed provided us a red dot optic for evaluation and testing. This miniature 2 MOA red dot is targeted at the budget minded shooter. We found it it to be a decent and effective red dot for those not wanting to spend more the $50. So far it's been riding a top of a Ruger 10/22 and performing as advertised.

For people who enjoy bolt guns, the Savage Mark II gives you a wonderful target .22 without breaking the bank. We found the gun produced excellent accuracy with bulk high velocity ammo. The Mark II's trigger is adjustable down to 2lbs. Out of the box the trigger measured 3 lbs and wow, it's a fantastic trigger! Very clean and crisp. The fluted carbon steel 16.5" (threaded) barrel allows for exceptional accuracy and a suppressor. The only knock on this fine .22 bolt gun was the cheap plastic stock. And other than that, we felt this is an exceptional value at $220-$279. Finally, this little .22 is a joy to shoot... simple fun! Here's what Savages says inn their promotional literature. The Mark II FV SR offers user-adjustable AccuTrigger™ technology for crisp, customized trigger pulls. Its heavy, button-rifled, 16.5-inch barrel is also fluted, threaded and paired with a black synthetic stock. The rifle has a 5-round detachable box magazine and one-piece scope rail. FEATURES AccuTrigger for a crisp, personalized trigger pull 16.5-inch heavy carbon steel barrel Button rifling, barrel fluting and threaded muzzle Black synthetic stock 5-round detachable box magazine One-piece scope rail SKU Number 28702 MSRP $279.00 Action Bolt Barrel Color Blued Barrel Finish Matte Barrel Length (in)/(cm) 16.5 / 40.6 Barrel Material Carbon Steel Caliber 22 LR Magazine Capacity 5 Hand Right Length of Pull (in)/(cm) 13.9 / 33.0 Magazine Detachable Box Magazine Overall Length (in)/(cm) 35.25 / 88.9 Rate of Twist (in) 1 in 16 Receiver Color Blued Receiver Finish Matte Receiver Material Carbon Steel Type Rimfire Stock Color Black Stock Finish Matte Stock Material Synthetic Stock Type Varmint Weight (lb)/(kg) 5.5 / 2.49

We test and shoot the 16" Foxtrot Mike 9mm carbine. This fantastic carbine is an AIM Surplus exclusive. With a great trigger, furniture and accuracy, we couldn't have been more impressed.

We take a look at the Glock 44 pistol in .22 LR. While initial reports of this pistol were mixed, based on our trials and tests it's a top pick for a cross trainer to the Glock 19. Yes we had stoppages but no more that other .22 pistols we've owned and / or tested. Our pistol seemed to have a preference for CCI Mini Mag and CCI standard Velocity ammo. We tried several other standard and high velocity loads and did experience an occasional FTF or FTE. Again, this is similar to the results I've experience with other .22 pistols I've shot. Accuracy was fine...just what we expected from a compact .22 pistol. We did find it delivered exceptional results with the Winchester Subsonic Lead Hollow Point. Matching .22 rounds to a specific firearm can be fun but occasionally it's a frustrating experience. However, once you find the load a pistol likes the results can be impressive. The trigger was good and typical of stock Glock triggers... (a slightly "squishy" take up before the break followed by a very clean tactile reset). Frankly, we think this pistol is one of the better compact .22 pistols out there. The 10 round mags were easy to load but Glock should offer standard capacity mags for the folks who live in states that don't demand an arbitrary number of only 10 rounds. Remember, there are alternative aftermarket magazines that might be worth looking at. Here are the specification right off the Glock website. 1 Length (Overall)** 185 mm | 7.28 inch 2 Slide Length 174 mm | 6.85 inch 3 Width (Overall) 32 mm | 1.26 inch 4 Slide Width 25,5 mm | 1.00 inch 5 Height incl.Mag. 128 mm | 5.04 inch 6 Line of Sight (Polymer) 153 mm | 6.02 inch 158 mm | 6.22 inch (adjustable) Line of Sight (Steel) 152 mm | 5.98 inch Line of Sight (GNS) 151 mm | 5.94 inch 7 Trigger Distance** 70 mm | 2.76 inch* FOR GEN4/GEN5 MODELS: Check out the Gen5 and Gen4 Technology area for medium/large backstraps.

Plenty of people own firearms and think because they do they're prepared to deal with an armed individual who has a weapon, the capability and intent to harm them. The reality is they're likely not really ready. If you expect to survive an armed encounter, the firearm is only a small party of of the complete personal protection toolbox. Not only do you need training, you also need to stress test your abilities, and skills in as realistic way as possible. Force on force and simulators help accomplish this. In this video, we discuss the value of using simulators to evaluate not only your proficiency with your firearm but as importantly test your plan for communicating before, during and after the encounter. Please share you thoughts of training, stress testing, and the use of simulators.

We Test the Savage Arms Minimalist .22 Bolt Gun. Accuracy was decent but not as impressive as other Savage .22 bolt guns we've tried in the past. Also this gun struggled to digest (cycle) CCI Standard Velocity Ammo, which was bizarre! Trigger, fit and finish was excellent but I was a bit disappointed by the issues cycling the CCI ammo. Multiple failures to eject. However the little .22 liked every other type of ammo we tested. This is from the Savage Arms website: Modern shooters require modern ergonomics. The new Minimalist from Savage combines a classic laminate design with modern aesthetics in order to achieve a lightweight platform with improved ergonomics. The rifles feature a proven button rifled barrel and user-adjustable AccuTrigger for unrivaled accuracy. The minimalist is offered in 22 LR, as well as two laminate color combinations to provide shooters with a variety of offerings in a proven platform. FEATURES Bolt action rimfire platform chambered in 22 LR 18” Carbon Steel Barreled Action Matte Black Sporter Contour Barrel Threaded ½-28 with cap Boyd's Minimalist laminate design stock 2.5-6 lb user-adjustable AccuTrigger 10-Round Detachable Magazine 2-Piece Weaver bases

We take a look at the Glock 44 pistol in .22 LR. While initial reports of this pistol were mixed, based on our trials and tests it's a top pick for a cross trainer to the Glock 19. Yes we had stoppages but no more that other .22 pistols we've owned and / or tested. Our pistol seemed to have a preference for CCI Mini Mag and CCI standard Velocity ammo. We tried several other standard and high velocity loads and did experience an occasional FTF or FTE. Again, this is similar to the results I've experience with other .22 pistols I've shot. Accuracy was fine...just what we expected from a compact .22 pistol. We did find it delivered exceptional results with the Winchester Subsonic Lead Hollow Point. Matching .22 rounds to a specific firearm can be fun but occasionally it's a frustrating experience. However, once you find the load a pistol likes the results can be impressive. The trigger was good and typical of stock Glock triggers... (a slightly "squishy" take up before the break followed by a very clean tactile reset). Frankly, we think this pistol is one of the better compact .22 pistols out there. The 10 round mags were easy to load but Glock should offer standard capacity mags for the folks who live in states that don't demand an arbitrary number of only 10 rounds. Remember, there are alternative aftermarket magazines that might be worth looking at. Here are the specification right off the Glock website. 1 Length (Overall)** 185 mm | 7.28 inch 2 Slide Length 174 mm | 6.85 inch 3 Width (Overall) 32 mm | 1.26 inch 4 Slide Width 25,5 mm | 1.00 inch 5 Height incl.Mag. 128 mm | 5.04 inch 6 Line of Sight (Polymer) 153 mm | 6.02 inch 158 mm | 6.22 inch (adjustable) Line of Sight (Steel) 152 mm | 5.98 inch Line of Sight (GNS) 151 mm | 5.94 inch 7 Trigger Distance** 70 mm | 2.76 inch* FOR GEN4/GEN5 MODELS: Check out the Gen5 and Gen4 Technology area for medium/large backstraps.

This fantastic carbine is an AIM Surplus exclusive. With a great trigger, furniture and accuracy, we couldn't have been more impressed. Ready to go right out of the box for competition or personal protection. 100% reliable with multiple types of ammo we tested, if was a joy to shoot. This handy pistol caliber carbine is a winner in our opinion. As described my AIM on their website..."The Foxtrot Mike Products FM9 Complete gun is feature rich and cutting edge. Built from the ground up to provide outstanding reliability and accuracy with a host of top tier features. The monolithic style has been achieved with a proprietary interlock between the upper and handguard. Comes with a Warhammer charging handle, AimSurplus drop in 3.5lb trigger and an AimSurplus ambi safety. Mission First Tactical pistol grip and stock and Lastly, the slim-line handguard is M-LOK compatible for your favorite accessories. Features a 16 inch barrel and a 15 inch Handguard. Comes with a cool 9mm specific Brake and some XL rail covers! 1/2x36 Thread Pattern"

A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to take a class with Stephanie McGanty the owner of Bellatrix Training. You can find Stepahine on Instagram @steph.m.nw where she posts regularly. Stephanie is an experienced firearms enthusiast and firearms instructor. Her class was well organized, effective and fun. Stephanie has worked with people like Mike Grover and possesses excellent skills. The class lasted about 6 hours. I expended about 400 rounds. The course description stated the round count of 300, but given the size of the class and the abilities the students we were able to shoot more! Stephanie did a nice job of providing information, demonstrating the skill then having the class work a specific drill. For those of you looking for training, especially women looking for a female instructor, take a class or two with Stephanie. You'll really enjoy the experience.

This drill can be shot on pistol, carbine or shotgun. It's a basic yet effective test of proficiency. The drill details are posted but basically for pistol the drill is shot from 5 yards. Special shout out to Paul Z. in NH for sending this any many other drills that we've demonstrated! There are four stages for this drill. Each with a generous par time of 6 seconds. Stage 1. From low ready, on the time tone, fire 5 shots into the target. Stage 2. On the tone, from holster, draw and fire four rounds into the target. Stage 3. Pistol has 1 round in chamber and an empty magazine. From low ready, on the tone, fire 1 shot to the holder , speed reload, and shoot 2 shots into the target. Stage 4. Pistol has one round in the chamber and an empty magazine. On the tone, from holster, draw and fire 1 shot, speed reload and fire 1 into the target. I like changing up skill drills and shooting them cold as I did in this video. Give this drill a try and let me know how you did. I checked out MDIs website and the look like a great outfit! Target from: FOUNDATION LEVEL QUALIFICATION TARGET © 2018 MDFI TRAINING, LLC WWW.TRAINMDFI.COM 605.646.2431

As ammunition availability has tightened and costs have skyrocketed many people have felt the impact. Fewer trips to the range, expensive ammo and the inability to engage in live fire practice is something most firearms owners have experienced. Companies, like G-Sight have stepped in to address a market with with tools like their chamber laser device and software app that allows users to enhance their skills with dry practice (dry fire drills). Several months ago, I purchased the ELMS in 9mm and have been very impressed. According to the G-Sight webpage "The G-Sight Training Laser lets you train when you can't get to the range. The firing pin activates a laser that allows the shooter to instantly see the point of impact with each shot, while the G-Sight App records your hits with your phone camera. Stay sharp between range sessions and get more out of your dry fire practice with real time feedback. Always follow all gun safety rules all the time. Practice fundamentals such as trigger control and sight alignment in the comfort of your own home. Works as quickly as you can pull the trigger with double action; cycle the action between shots with single action. 1 year manufacturer warranty. Please use the contact info in the user manual. Free companion app requires iOS 10.0 / Android 6.0 or newer. Contains in-app-purchase features such as a shot timer. Not all Android Devices supported - please check support list before purchase! Each unit of the Master Edition has a unique serial number engraving Extra O-ring set included in box". I feel tools like this are extremely beneficial and recommend that every serious firearms enthusiast consider adding this sort of train device to their kit.

Many people carry pocket pistols for personal protection. But plenty of those same people don't practice with them. In this video I share some of the work I do to try to stay proficient. The pistol used in this video is a Ruger LCP. I've had this pistol for 9 or 10 years, and carried it extensively. Sometimes and a backup to my primary pistol or in some cases, as the primary pistol. Regardless of the make, model or brand you use for personal protection, it's incredibly important to train with that tool. This video was shot in April of 2021, after not doing any live fire for well over 6 weeks. Yes, dry fire practice is VERY important but we also need to incorporate live fire so we don't lose our proficiency.