Awareness and Control

One basic principle of gun safety is to never point a gun at anything you aren’t willing to destroy. This is practically a mantra in gun safety, and it is a good one to remember. Whenever you are on the range, the muzzle should always be pointing down range. If at anytime someone needs to walk out onto the range, everyone should be aware of this. All guns should be unloaded, and “neutralized”.

It is incredibly important that you never point a gun to your sides or behind you. It can be easy for new shooters to turn to speak or look at something, and without thinking turn the muzzle with them. This is how accidents happen. Always be aware of where a gun is pointing.

Trigger control falls right in with muzzle control. You never want to place your finger on the trigger until you are ready to shoot. If you are holding a gun, but not ready to shoot, you can simply place your trigger finger along the outside of the gun, or anywhere outside of the trigger well. You should not rely on gun safeties. Some firearms have safeties, and others do not. When a firearm has a safety, you should just treat it like a backup. It never hurts to engage it, but all the other safety rules should still be followed.

Gun Safety Mechanisms

There are various mechanisms used as safeties, and an understanding of them is necessary when handling your firearms.

The most common you will find are simple switches that lock the trigger. Some have a button, or a cross bolt safety. These are common on rifles and shotguns. Many handguns have a tang safety, which is a little lever near the rear of the slide that can be switched to engage or disengage the safety. Many bolt-action rifles have a lever, or pivot safety, that can be pushed to activate the safety. With all of these, the use is simple: just switch the safety on and off depending on when you are firing. 

Some handguns, most notably the 1911, have a beavertail safety. This is a little lever that is part of the grip. When the handgun is gripped, the safety is naturally disengaged when the grip is compressed. When let go, the safety naturally engages. Another safety mechanism found on the 1911 and many more firearms it the half cock. Essentially, you can cock a hammer to a halfway point. The hammer is not in contact with the firing pin, so if some force is applied the firearm will not go off. It is generally a safe way to carry a loaded firearm when not currently firing. It should also serve to make the gun “drop safe”. 

Many revolvers use what is called a transfer bar. A transfer bar is a piece of metal that bridges the gap between the hammer and the firing pin. When the hammer is cocked, the transfer bar raises. When the hammer is released it lowers. The way this works is that the transfer bar releases somewhat slowly compared to the hammer. When the gun is fired, the hammer strikes the transfer bar and transfers energy to the firing pin because the transfer bar does not get out of the way in the time.

However, say you are cocking or decocking the hammer, and accidentally release the hammer or set it into place too quickly. The transfer bar has time to move out of the way. Since the hammer only goes forward far enough to touch the transfer bar, and not the firing pin itself, an accidental discharge will be prevented. More modern semi-automatic firearms will often use what are essentially updated versions of this, referred to as drop safeties. Essentially, if the trigger is not being pulled, no amount of force should be able to move the firing pin into the cartridge with enough force to discharge a round.

Never Assume a Gun is Unloaded

Whenever you pick up a gun, you should never assume that it is unloaded. If someone hands you a gun, it is not rude to quickly check the chamber. On a pistol, take out the magazine (if it is present) and rack the slide to ensure that the chamber is empty. With a revolver, simply open the cylinder to check it. On a pump-action shotgun, pull the pump to see into the chamber. On a semi-automatic rifle or shotgun, check the magazine and pull the charging handle.

This quick check will serve as an extra layer of protection. Many guns also have loaded chamber indicators. There will be a bar that raises, and may be painted a visible color like red, when a round is in the chamber. This is useful, but not all firearms have them. Whether a gun has one or not, don’t rely on it solely. Treating firearms like they are unloaded when they in fact are loaded is a recipe for a serious mistake. 

Store Your Firearms Safely

One of the most important things to consider is to be mindful of who else will be around the firearm. If you have children in the house, the gun should be stored in a place where it will not be easily accessible to them. Of course, children shouldn’t fear guns, and should be taught how to use them and be safe with them, but you still never know what a child might get up to.

One of the best ways to keep your guns safe is to buy a gun safe. A gun safe can also offer defense and protection against the elements, all the way to extremes like home fires. Gun safes can also protect your firearms from thieves. When it comes to transporting firearms, proper cases will be useful. When you have a gun in a car, or when you are taking it into a range, A case is usually the best way to carry it. You should still practice gun safety by ensuring beyond a shadow of a doubt that the firearm is unloaded while transporting it. This of course does not quite apply when you are carrying a weapon for self-defense. Different rules apply, and you’ll learn more about that during the certification process.

Additional Gun Safety Tips

When you are cleaning your firearms, you are going to need to make sure you have an understanding of what you are doing. Ensure that the gun is unloaded before you start. Different guns field strip differently. You can find online instructions on how to disassemble your firearm in text, diagram, and video form. Don’t be afraid to seek help with this if you have never taken apart a gun before. When you’re cleaning it, you generally want to wipe it down to remove residue, use some type of lubricant or oil, and clean the barrel with a bore brush. You can read more when the time comes on the best way to do it. In general, keeping a gun well-maintained is important safety wise because it can help prevent malfunctions. Clean your guns people.

Another place where you not only may want help, but probably need it, is with altering your firearms. If you are making a small change, like switching out grips, you will probably be ok. If they are more major changes, things can get dicey. If you want to make changes to your firearm, feel free to find a gun shop to help you out. You also may want to make sure that any changes you think about making are legal, especially if you live in a more restrictive state like California.

* This guest post is brought to you by our friend Jay Chambers *

Jay is a pro free speech business owner based in Austin, Texas. Having lived through several natural disasters and more than a few man-made ones (hello 2008), he believes that resilience and self-sufficiency are essential in this increasingly unpredictable world. That’s why he started a business! Jay writes over at Minuteman Review.

The post Gun Safety Mechanisms – Essentials to Know appeared first on Gunivore.

Long passed are the days of my great grandfather where cotton balls and cigarette filters were used for hearing protection. Many modern hearing protection devices are so advanced that the can virtually eliminate gunshots while allowing you to hear the faintest of leaves rustling and human whispering. However, the Pro For Sho Maximum Hearing Protection Safety Earmuffs are simple, affordable, and effective. Let’s take a closer look and see what they have to offer.

Pro For Sho 34dB NRR Shooting Protection Earmuffs

First, let’s start with the basics. Pro For Sho’s Maximum Protection earmuffs are made by an American LLC company based in New Jersey who manufactures their goods overseas in countries like Taiwan. Now that might bother some people, but it definitely contributes to their remarkably low price tag. In fact, their flagship earmuffs are sold for as low as $15 on Amazon, which is pretty noteworthy.

As I unboxed these earmuffs I definitely get why they say “lightweight” but that did raise some concerns for their quality. Unlike a heavier duty set of earmuffs, I didn’t feel confident with these right out of the box though I knew that could all change as soon as I went to the range. 

Before I continue, I think it’s important to address a major claim made by Pro For Sho. They say that this model has a noise reduction rating of 34 decibels which is significantly high and certainly above what is considered high-quality protection.

Keep in mind that the average gunshot will clock in at around 135 decibels or so – A .22 vs. a .45 vs. a .460 Weatherby Magnum will give you a broad range so 135 dB is probably a fair estimate. It’s also worth noting that they have done proper testing according to ANSI S3.19-1974 specs which is the hearing protection industry standard for safety and reliability.

Additionally, it’s important to understand that a noise reduction rating of 34 decibels does NOT mean that your hearing protection device minimizes the sounds by 34 dB. In reality, let’s say you’re shooting a rifle with 100-decibel output and you have on these Pro For Sho muffs with NRR 34dB, that doesn’t mean your sound exposure would then be 66 (100-34). In truth, the way the NRR works is that you must subtract 7 from the original NRR and divide it by 2.

So in our case, the Pro For Sho earmuffs would yield a sound exposure of 86.5 decibels (100 – (34-7)/2). While this is a significant drop in sound exposure, Pro For Sho does say that earplugs should also be worn underneath their earmuffs to maximize the protection and I advise others to listen to their warning.

In terms of their build and design, there’s nothing special about these earmuffs but sometimes simple is all you need. They do fold up nicely and are relatively small which makes storage and transport pretty easy. Then there’s the comfort and I have mixed feelings. I could easily see that these were manufactured to be inexpensive, and that’s okay, but it doesn’t help their comfortability.

To be more precise, they were surprisingly comfortable for being made mostly out of cheap plastic, but after at least 20 consecutive minutes my head did start to hurt. That’s not necessarily a deal-breaker, but it’s not the kind of earmuff you forget you’re wearing.

Now we have performance and that’s actually where these guys impressed me. I started by running a magazine downrange with just the earmuffs and shooting my HK45 and it was louder than I was comfortable with. So I threw in some disposable foam earplugs that were NRR 32dB and reloaded.

Truthfully, it made such a difference and I spent 45 minutes at the outdoor range and about 1 hour at the indoor range to test the acoustics. I took a few breaks to smoke and take off my hearing protection but overall it was a pretty good experience and it helped me formulate my opinion.

I spent the next three Sundays at the range with a few higher caliber rifles to really test out the earmuffs and overall it was better than I expected based on the unboxing.

Conclusion

If I had to grade the Pro For Sho 34dB EarMuffs I’d probably say somewhere around a B-. They are one of the most affordable pieces of hearing protection you can get with a great NRR rating but you do always get what you pay for. The comfort is not great but also not horrible while the hearing protection is alright but actually quite good when paired with a good pair of earplugs. I would easily recommend these as a backup pair of earmuffs to take to the range or to keep around the house. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend regular shooters to rely on these are their go-to pair, but they shouldn’t be disregarded as a subpar set of hearing protection. They definitely have their appropriate place and use for shooters.

The post Pro For Sho Earmuffs Review appeared first on Gunivore.

When shopping for a gun for myself, I’d much rather decide for MYSELF. Personally, I think it’s similar to shopping for a bra, it has to fit, has to be comfortable, and has to appropriate for the occasion.

Since I’d never wear a little lacy pushup bra for a morning jog, similarly every firearm should fit properly in the hand of its user. I need a handgun (and ammo) with as little kick after discharge as possible.

As much as I appreciate the look and capability of a longer nose revolver or full size 1911, they’re a little heavy for me and strain my wrist.

As somewhat of a novice, I think it’s important to identify one’s purpose of carrying a gun.

For me, it helps with my confidence in safety, security, and independence.  There has always been a need to protect and feel protected. It is said that all too often the ones that we depend on for protection are the very ones that we need to be protected from.

Interestingly enough, animals do not hunt for sport, kill in anger, or for retribution or pleasure. It is humans who are vicious killers, and we kill each other often without justification and even without knowing the target (s). 

The screams for more stringent gun laws after every mass shooting can be quite compelling, having heard firsthand accounts of the horrible October 27, 2018 shooting of a synagogue in Pittsburgh, where 11 innocent people were needlessly and brutally murdered while in prayer. 

One must remember that in that case, as well as the other horrendous mass shootings, the shooter (s) are NOT law-abiding citizens and therefore didn’t adhere to even a less stringent law, so how would a more stringent law be effective?

Sadly, it wouldn’t and therefore since the need to “Do something” is so prevalent, our society wants to alter the laws rather than alter societal behaviors. In truth, gun control only causes more innocent lives to be lost. This is an irrefutable fact that many simply won’t accept.

Don’t miss our shocking Top 5 Biggest Myths About Guns

As an active 21^st century woman, I believe that we must educate ourselves and stop the need to depend on others to provide all of our protection. 

While women are still seen as the weaker of the genders, even in 2019, it is prudent for us to learn self-defense. This is not a new concept, as even in the 1920s, the first wave of the Women’s Rights Movement brought a wide range of martial art techniques and classes for women to combat unwanted advances.

The hand to hand combat is unappealing to many (myself included) since we don’t want to wait until a perpetrator is close enough for this method of defense. Since we as Americans are afforded the Right to Bear Arms, that means ALL Americans, male and female.

According to the Pew Research Center, gun ownership is more common among men than women in America, 39% to 22%. Although, many American women that may not personally own a gun, may live with someone that does. Thankfully, female gun ownership is on the rise!

The ease and comfort of carrying for women have drastically improved in the last decade with the production and selling of conceal carry solutions that are meeting the demands of the active woman. Of course, you can simply bury your firearm at the bottom of your handbag, but really how effective is it really when your eye pencil gets caught in the trigger?

The choices to safely carry are so vast today. The SPANX like holster is a popular and very comfortable option as is a corset holster, since it doesn’t interfere with the bra. Additionally, Flashbang has a great holster option that allows me to wear my own already well-fitting and comfortable bra and conceal my handgun.

Okay sisters, go out get your own method protection. Learn everything possible about your choice, perfect your usage and be comfortable with your selection.

* This guest post is brought to you by our friend Mimi M *

Mimi is a longtime member of the Gunivore family and a 2nd Amendment advocate who promotes increased female gun ownership.

The post Women and Guns: A Perfect Match appeared first on Gunivore.

Beyond advances in the hardware, shooters from the US have continuously evolved the way that gear was employed by continually improving on lessons learned. One such pioneer was Col. Jeff Cooper, known as the ‘Father of Modern Pistolcraft.’

Cooper’s teachings live on today as the foundation for almost all training school programs to build on. His color codes of awareness and architecture of the draw stroke are still taught today by a number of his contemporaries and their protégés. Many of these living resources are approaching the end of their teaching careers and are an opportunity to be taken sooner rather than later. Others have recently hung their shingle and peddle their take on current trends based on their experiences in the military or law enforcement.

Not all trainers teach all applicable skills – if you are an aspiring IPSC shooter, then you train with Taran Butler like Keanu Reeves. If you need to do a pre-deployment workup before heading over to the ‘sandbox,’ then Kyle Lamb or Dave Harrington are your guys. Patrol Officer? Go check in with the Sig Academy. For John/Jane Q Public looking to learn the ins and outs of concealed carry, there are a number of quality trainers who can provide instruction directly relevant to your needs.

John Farnham – Defense Training International

John Farnham is one of those legendary resources that is approaching retirement, meaning that serious students of self-defense should register for one of his classes sooner rather than later. A Vietnam veteran, John has authored many publications related to defensive shooting and proper mindset. He regularly lectures at tactical conferences worldwide and is an adept trainer of civilian shooters.

Tom Givens – Rangemaster

Another industry veteran, Tom Givens opened his training facility in Memphis, TN in 1996 after a 25-year career in law enforcement. Rangemaster became the primary source of carry permit certifications for the greater Memphis area, with almost 60 students successfully putting their skills to the test.  Together with his wife and partner Lynn, they now form Rangemaster Firearms Training Services where they now travel worldwide delivering instruction to students in their region.

Rob Pincus – I.C.E. Training Company

Rob Pincus is a professional trainer, author, and consultant, and is one of the founders of the Association of Defensive Shooting Instructors. I.C.E. provides training to armed professionals and civilian shooters alike.

Rob provides efficient training methodologies to those interested in developing firearms and defensive skills. His methods maximize limited training resources and focus on what the body does naturally under real-world conditions.

Conducting over 50 courses a year in over 40 locations, Pincus travels over 300 days a year, bringing cutting-edge personal defense information to students ranging from military and law enforcement personnel to those who are just entering the concealed carry arena.

Clint Smith – Thunder Ranch

Clint Smith is the President and Director of Thunder Ranch. A two-tour Marine veteran of Vietnam, his experience includes seven years as a police officer during which he served as head of the Firearms Training Division.

Smith left law enforcement to lead Operations for Jeff Cooper’s American Pistol Institute, where he was Dean of instruction and heavily contributed to range and curriculum development.

In 1993, Clint opened Thunder Ranch®, Inc. to showcase innovative training and numerous range designs not seen before. Clint is a contributor to American Handgunner, American Cop, GUNS, and SWAT magazines and has appeared in many other national and international publications.

His wife and partner Heidi Smith has been Vice President of TR since 1999. An experienced instructor in her own right, she has been active in the field since the late 1980s.

Kathy Jackson

Kathy began training at the Firearms Academy of Seattle with FAS Director Marty Hayes and his wife, Gila. In 2003, she became a lead instructor at FAS in 2005, working with thousands of students at this professional firearms training facility over the years.

Kathy has been a professional student as well as an instructor for almost 20 years, having trained with many of the great names in the industry.  She is also an adjunct instructor for Massad Ayoob, qualified to teach Ayoob’s MAG-20 range class and Judicious Use of Deadly Force.

From 2012 through 2017, Kathy offered firearms training nationwide for both men and women through Cornered Cat LLC.

Gunsite Academy – Where it all began

While not a specific instructor, Gunsite is one of those places where the staff instructors teach a program developed by an industry pioneer. Jeff Cooper founded Gunsite as the American Pistol Institute (API) in 1976 to teach the modern technique of shooting. At that time the firearms training school industry did not exist.

Gunsite changed hands twice since Cooper first sold it, and Cooper acolyte Buzz Mills now runs it. Mills maintains the curriculum as close to Cooper’s original philosophy as possible.

Firearms Training Academy of Seattle

At the Firearms Academy of Seattle, Inc. Director Marty Hayes believes safety begins with the individual. As a career law enforcement officer, he knows that the police can’t protect you.

Marty, working with his wife Gila, creates a training environment that enables the student to maximize his or her training hours. Real-world dangers present themselves in a 360-degree panorama — not only the down-range orientation of the traditional firing range training venue. F.A.S. moves the student into less-static training drills as early in the curriculum as it is safe and productive to do so.

Sig Academy

Officially launched in 1990 for training law enforcement and military clients, the Sig Academy has become a significant source of quality firearm instruction for all. Moving to their current facility in 1996 in Epping, NH they created the first-ever non-toxic, frangible indoor range.

In 2001 SIGARMS Academy introduced specialized civilian training for select organizations and businesses. Shortly after that, the demand from the civilian population grew, and the Academy audience became Armed Professionals and Responsible Citizens. Sig defines a ‘Responsible Citizen’ as anyone who can legally possess a firearm.

The major difference is defined in the tactics and disposition of an armed encounter. In Sig’s view, an Armed Professional is required to contain, control, and render proper dispensation of an armed confrontation in their jurisdiction. The Responsible Citizen has no responsibility as such and is encouraged to disengage from an armed confrontation when possible, but be prepared to act with lethal force when no other option is available.

No matter which instructor you choose to work with, be sure to check out their equipment lists before you head to class. Make sure your Kydex holster and gun belt meet the requirements of the course as many instructors will limit the kind of gear allowed on the range. Many schools prohibit certain holster designs or carry methods depending on instruction level, so plan ahead.

* This guest post is brought to you by Benji Menez and our friends over at Concealment Express. *

Concealment Express is a rising star in the firearms community and is the place to go for high-quality holsters.

The post America’s Best Handgun Shooting Instructors appeared first on Gunivore.

Once you really start getting the hang of trap shooting, you may want to think about entering a competition. Trap shooting competitions are a lot of fun, and they sometimes offer up some pretty lucrative prizes. As a novice, though, you may feel a bit intimidated about joining a competition and not knowing what to expect. We’ve put together this trap shooter’s guide to help you prepare for your first competition. Keep reading to learn more!

How a Trap Competition Works

Let’s start with the basics. For the purposes of this article, we will be talking about American Trap singles, during which you have one chance to make each shot. A round of trap consists of 25 targets. Each person in a squad–typically consisting of five people–fires at five targets from five different shooting positions. Each person starts at a different position and takes a shot. Once everyone has taken their first shot, this is repeated four times so that each shooter shoots five times from their starting position.

Once the last person has fired their fifth shot, each shooter moves one position to the right with the shooter on the far right moving around into the first spot. This continues until each person has fired at five targets from each of the five positions.

A round of trap consists of 25 shots per person, but during a competition, you’ll typically be shooting 100 or 200 rounds. There are breaks in between rounds, and depending on the size of the event, you may shoot from multiple fields. Essentially, a competition consists of 200 one-shot competitions.

Trap Shooting Equipment

In basic singles trap, you can use just about any shotgun you prefer. You will want either a 20-gauge or 12-gauge, though, to ensure that you are firing enough shot downrange to break the target. You can use a pump action, semi-auto or over and under shotgun.

As long as it is capable of firing off one shot at a time, nearly any shotgun is suitable for this sport. An over and under gun is often the easiest option for beginners, but if you already have a pump action or a semi-auto that you love, feel free to use it! Using a gun that you are comfortable with will go a long way toward helping you perform well at the event.

Trap Shooting Etiquette

If you are thinking about entering a trap shooting competition, proper etiquette may be the furthest thing from your mind. It is incredibly important, though, and it’s often one of the most intimidating and challenging aspects of competition shooting. There are all sorts of unwritten rules about how you should behave during a competition, and if you aren’t familiar with them, you could inadvertently make a mistake or offend someone.

For starters, following proper gun safety protocol is always a must. Don’t load your gun until it is your turn to shoot, keep your weapon pointed downrange and never fire when someone is on the range. And no matter how frustrated you get after a bad shot, do not throw your firearm downrange in a fit of rage! When everyone follows proper safety protocol and uses common sense, it is possible to avoid potentially deadly accidents.

You’ll also want to make sure you are a good neighbor during the competition. When it’s getting close to your turn, be mindful of the shooter to your left. Don’t make any noise when that person is about to shoot. Avoid working your gun action so you don’t distract them. If you are using a semi-automatic shotgun, buy a shell catcher. Shell catchers are inexpensive and they prevent your empty shells from being flung out toward the shooter on your right. When using a pump action, be gentle to avoid flinging your empty.

When you are not in the shooting position, your firearm should be clear and unloaded. Keep the action open and the muzzle pointed at the ground or the sky unless the organizers of the competition tell you to do something different.

Make sure you are prepared when stepping up to the shooting line to begin a round. You should have a full box of shells (plus a few spares) and hearing and eye protection. If you are unprepared, you can slow down the entire competition, and doing so is not a good way to make friends.

Trap Shooting Dress

Find out if there is a dress code prior to the event. If there isn’t, plan on wearing closed-toed shoes, jeans or long shorts and a decent shirt. Most clubs don’t allow things like sleeveless tees for safety reasons. A shooting shirt is always a good option. You may want to consider wearing a polyester sweat-wicking shirt as a base layer to help you stay cool and dry throughout the competition. If it’s chilly, it’s a good idea to wear a windproof jacket, too.

Conclusion

Trap shooting is a lot of fun, and joining a competition is a great way to get out and do something you love. With the information listed above, you can prepare yourself for your first competition and avoid making any potentially dangerous or embarrassing mistakes. Always remember the rules of gun safety and show good sportsmanship. Once you’ve made it through your first competition, you’ll likely be hooked and ready to sign up for the next one!

* This guest post is brought to you by our friend Morgan Clarke *

Morgan Walker Clarke is a writer and avid hunter from Dallas, Texas. He has 10+ years of writing experience and has been hunting ever since he was a child. In his spare time, he enjoys taking his dogs to the park, watching football, and spending time with his wife and twin sons. 

The post The Trap Shooter’s Guide to Their First Competition appeared first on Gunivore.

This post is going to be on body armor, and more specifically about the protection which AR500 Armor can (and cannot) provide.

There is a pretty well-known bit of combat footage, recorded by an Iraqi insurgent back in June of 2005, and it demonstrates the unequivocal importance of wearing body armor.

In the video, PFC Stephen Tschiderer, a combat medic stationed in Baghdad, is seen getting shot squarely in the chest by a sniper. The soldier goes down, and the insurgents give praise. One second later Tschiderer pops back up, takes cover behind his humvee, and radios for aid. His body armor saved his life that day.

Company Background

Body armor has been around for thousands of years. Over time, more sophisticated ways and means of achieving protection have been introduced. Body armor was designed for the sole purpose of protecting one’s body/head/extremities from different injuries. Some methods were better than others, but overall these pieces of armor have contributed to higher survival rates for those in the field.

It’s not just about combat soldiers, either. Gangsters and other criminals were famous for wearing the more modern types of armor when these began to make an appearance around the turn of the 20th century.

From silk and chainmail to hardened steel and Kevlar, being well-protected in a hostile environment is paramount. Nowadays, the more modern method of using body armor involves knowing your enemy, because what is fit for one type of encounter is not necessarily fit for the other.

You don’t bring a knife to a gun fight, they say, and likewise, you don’t bring a stab-resistant body armor to a place where you’ll likely be taking fire.

Armored Republic – the company which stands behind the AR500 Armor brand – was founded by Tyler and Holleen O’Neill in 2012. The husband and wife duo went into business with a vision of providing civilians, law enforcement, government agents, and military personnel with effective and high-quality armor solutions.

The company has its headquarters in Phoenix, AZ, and it manufactures almost everything in-house.

AR500 Armor

At its core, AR500 Armor makes use of a specially-designed and specially-made ballistic-grade steel. The company states that its steel armor is significantly harder than traditional steel and performs better than other brands of steel armor which are currently on the market.

Next comes the protective coating which the company applies to the steel base – the Line-X Paxcon (PX-2100). This is a coating which helps the armor sustain the impact of different types of projectiles when they strike it, AND to fragment the bullet in such a way that poses no threat to the wearer.

After all, the point is to help the user survive an attack and also retain the capacity to fight back and quickly dispatch of his or her would-be dispatchers.

AR500 armor is divided into levels. Here is a quick rundown, according to the company’s data:

• Soft Body Armor
  • Level II – for handgun rounds up to .357 Magnum
  • Level IIIA – for handgun rounds up to .44 Magnum
    • Rimelig
    • Hybrid
    • Steel
      
      
• Hard Body Armor
  • Level III – all common handgun rounds + rated up to .308 and 7.62mm
  • Level IIIA – all common handgun rounds, including 9mm, .45 ACP, .44 Magnum   
  • Level III+ – all common handgun rounds + rated up to multi-hit 7.62mm, and 5.56mm
  • Level III+ Lightweight – all common handgun rounds + rated up to multi-hit 7.62mm, and 5.56mm
  • Level IV – a threat rating of up to a single hit of .30-06 M2AP,  plus all lesser threats

All of AR500’s armor is tested in-house and also independently. Many shooters have posted positive reviews of the equipment, but bear in mind that these are not the only options. Other companies also manufacture body armor, using their own techniques and methods.

AR500 Armor can save you from many types of encounters, providing that you use the right type of armor and that you do so properly. Body armor will not protect against all conceivable threats, and the company can only guarantee your safety when you use their armor as instructed.

AR500 Steel

Ordinary (aka mild) steel is cheap and readily available, but it is too soft for certain applications, such as body armor or steel targets. Because of that, new types of hardened steel were innovated. The hardness of materials and their ability to resist penetration is measured on the Brinell scale. In the term ‘AR500’, the AR stands for Abrasion Resistant, and 500 stands for the hardness rating on the Brinell scale.

There are also AR300, AR400, and AR600 steels – and others. These are used for different applications and industries, depending on the hardness of the material at hand.

The chief users of AR500 steel don’t actually come from the body armor or target industries, but rather from the mining and farming industries. The AR500’s resistance to impact, abrasion, and penetration have made it an exceedingly popular go-to material in the construction of devices and apparatuses related to those two fields.

AR steel has been around for over 60 years, and as modern technology becomes more advanced, steel manufacturers are discovering newer and better ways of creating AR steel, hardening it, coating it, and cutting it. This means that this steel is in constant motion, so to speak, and that greater steel-related innovations are just around the corner.

AR500 steel has become a widely-acknowledged standard (at least within the US), and this is where AR500 Armor gets its name.

AR500 Plates

Raw steel can be cut into many different forms: plates, billets, beams, sheets, bars, slabs, rolls, and more.

AR500 Armor manufactures steel plates of all sorts. These are used in the creation of the brand’s different types of body armor. The plates, their configuration, and their coating – these are the determining factors in the level of protection which is attributed to the armor. The plates can be flat, single curve, or multi curve, and the shape of their cut affects their recommended use, their durability, and their performance.

AR500 Plate Carrier

Okay, so let’s say you’ve got yourself a nice Level IV plate of AR500 armor – how are you going to physically put it on? It is essentially just a treated piece of hardened coated steel weighing in at 8.3 lbs, so it’s not exactly something you can just stick under your shirt willy nilly.

You need something to wear which will position your armor in the right location on your body, and provide the best fit for the mission or situation at hand. This is precisely what the AR500 plate carrier series is: modular armor-housing solutions.

In the company’s recent 2019 catalog, some new carriers appeared alongside the older and more familiar ones. The idea is simple: these carriers are designed to set the plates in the right places, while keeping you lightweight, mobile, and protected.

By the way, the plate carriers are made in Vietnam to Armored Republic’s strict standards, but the plates themselves are manufactured in the US, at the company’s facilities in Arizona.

AR500’s carriers are each designed a little differently, to correspond with the wants and needs of different types of users or scenarios. Some of the plate carriers in their lineup are:

• Concealment
• Emergency Personal Carrier (EPC)
• Guardian
• Micro
• Tetsudo Gen 2
• Veritas
• AR Freeman (new for 2019)
• AR Invictus (new for 2019)
• Tetsudo Lite (new for 2019)
• Veritas Lite (new for 2019)

There are others available, and some which have been discontinued. They all come in different configurations and sizes, and are compatible with the various plates and pads.

This is certainly no “one size fits all” situation. Far from it. What fits one set of plates and gear may not fit the other set – which is why you should take the time and do your research. That way you will find the best and most appropriate combination for you. There is also the option of all sorts of upgrades, chest rigs, pouches, and accessories.

The more gear you carry, the bulkier and heavier you become. This is why AR500’s plate carriers are designed to provide the civilian, officer, soldier, or agent with the best protection possible, while still enabling them to get moving quickly and, if needed, engage the enemy with force and agility.

Their carriers are lightweight, double-stitched, reinforced, and they come with different combinations of webbing, velcro, mesh, 500D Cordura (a high-strength durable nylon), and more.

These carriers are all fully adjustable and easily customized, because gear is an inseparable part of combat readiness, and it should be personalized to the highest degree.

Plate carrier MSRP: starts at $49 (for the EPC) and up to $249 (for the Valkyrie)

AR500 Targets

AR500 Armor also manufactures steel targets and stands. Most shooters probably use paper targets, but steel is a great (and fun) alternative. It is usually not a real necessity, but in some cases it is clearly the better option.

The company offers silhouettes, gongs, zones, and packages of all kinds, including a build-your-own target option. Targets are made of AR500 steel, starting at the MSRP of $9 for the 2” gong.

Steel gives you easier and immediate hit-or-miss confirmation, with a satisfying “PING!” to boot. They last much, much longer than paper could ever hope to last, and they also allow you to keep firing without having to go down-range to change targets. Plus, weather conditions do not affect them, and if you do want to make them look good as new, a quick spray-over with any cheap can of spray paint will provide adequate and satisfying results.

As mentioned, AR500 steel is a combination of hardness and strength. These are both needed if you are planning on firing at steel targets regularly. If you choose a softer or more mild kind of steel, the target will deform quickly and potentially affect the results of your shots, as well as the amount and direction of ricochets. This poses potential safety and training hazards, so if you are going to use steel – do it right, and use proper steel targets with a rating of 500 or higher on the Brinell scale.

Conclusion

Shortly after PFC Stephen Tschiderer was shot, both the sniper and the cameraman were apprehended by US forces. The two insurgents had sustained various wounds and injuries (the result of a 90-minute pursuit), and were tended to by none other than the medic on the scene – Tschiderer himself. I don’t think the tragic irony was lost on anyone who was there.

I’ll tell you what we really need, though. We need to get ourselves some of that Elven mithril, that appears In Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings. It is described as being a precious silver-like metal which is extremely lightweight, and which can be fashioned into hard and durable armor. But the chances of finding some mithril outside of Middle-earth are not too good, and I don’t know of any Dwarves who are currently in the trade.

So if you want a high-quality, American-made product which may save your bacon when the chips are down – the good people over at Armored Republic and AR500 Armor have got you covered, front, back, and sides.

The post AR500 Armor Review appeared first on Gunivore.

It’s safe to say that the firearms market is doing well. In fact, we witnessed the second highest year in NICS firearm background checks, falling just behind the 2016 record. Between concealed carriers, competition shooters, and home defense, more and more people are buying guns. However, recent polls show that 2 in 3 gun owners claim protection as their main reason for owning a firearm. That being the case, we figured it was worthwhile to discuss some of the best guns for home defense.

It’s always been Man’s duty to protect his home. Even before the 2^nd Amendment, it was Man’s God-given responsibility to defend his family and homestead. Although firearms have been the weapon of choice for home defense for centuries, they have developed unfathomably.

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to understand the need for a home defense weapon, though I’ve begun to doubt that assertion in light of recent events. Assuming we can all be sensible adults and recognize that there are evil people in the world and therefore guns in the home are necessary, there is one study in particular which shows just how crucial they can be.

Kennesaw, Georgia (a suburb of Atlanta) passed a law in 1982 compelling all homeowners to keep at least one firearm in their homes at all times. Unsurprisingly, the once crime-ridden community experienced a remarkable 89& drop in the burglary rate in the ensuing months. Moreover, Kennesaw’s burglary rate was still over 70% lower over a decade later. This shows with certainty that legally-owned firearms in the house are an effective crime deterrent.

Furthermore, studies by the CDC and famed criminologists Kleck and Gertz confirm just how effective guns are at stopping crime in its tracks. Together, their combined data indicated that defensive gun use isn’t just common, it’s often more effective than police. In fact, rough estimates suggest that there are somewhere between 500,000 to 3+ million defensive gun uses per year. No matter how you cut it, it’s clear that guns keep Americans safe. The good news is, a recent Pew poll found that approximately 40% of American homes have at least one firearm.

Home Defense Gun

There are so many factors to consider before buying a home defense gun that it can be quite daunting for many people. Even if you think you’ve found the perfect firearm, you still have to consider how and where you want to store it in addition to which caliber and type of ammo you want to use. For instance, these shooters have to factor in cost of ammo, stopping power, recoil, capacity, and user-friendliness. That being the case, there’s no right answer for what is the best gun for home defense. However, we’ve broken it down for you by category of firearm in the hopes that you can make the right choice for yourself.

Home Defense Shotgun

When it comes to home defense shotguns few names stick out more than Mossberg. The iconic gunmaker is the proud manufacturer of several great tactical shotguns, especially their new 590 Shockwave. This nifty little scattergun is a formidable choice for any homeowner looking to protect their family and property. In addition to its incredible specs and reputation, the Shockwave made headlines for its non-NFA status, despite it being a short-barreled shotgun.

• Model: 590 Shockwave
• Action: Pump
• Gauge: 12, 20, .410
• Chamber: 3″
• Capacity: 6
• Barrel Length: 14.4″
• Overall Length: 26.4″
• Stock: Raptor Grip / Corn Forend w/ Strap
• Weight: Approx. 5 lbs.
• MSRP: $504

You may also want to consider the new and improved DP-12 shotgun. The Standard Manufacturing bullpup (yes, a bullpup shotgun!) pump-action can hold a ton of cartridges and is built to hold any accessory you can imagine. Although they may be quite expensive, they are sturdy as all hell and won’t disappoint when you need it the most. These shotguns are also a bit heavy, so keep that in mind, but they are also easier to handle than traditionally built scatterguns.

• Model: DP-12
• Action: Pump
• Gauge: 12 Ga.
• Chamber: 2 x 18 7/8”, chambered for 2 ¾” or 3″ shells
• Capacity: 16 Total
• Barrel Length: 19″
• Overall Length: 29.5″
• Stock: Synthetic
• Weight: 9 lbs. 12 oz.
• MSRP: $1,725

I feel the need to at least mention the Kel-Tec KSG since it is incredibly popular, affordable, and user-friendly. The Kel-Tec tactical shotgun is anything but classic thanks to its 15-round capacity, unusual dual barrel bullpup design, and insane customizability. It’s by no means the perfect firearm, but it can certainly hold its own as a home defense shotgun. 

• Model: KSG Tactical
• Action: Pump
• Gauge: 12 Ga.
• Chamber: 3″
• Capacity: 8+1
• Barrel Length: 13.5″
• Overall Length: 21.5″
• Stock: Synthetic
• Weight: 6.2 lbs.
• MSRP: $1,200

Home Defense Pistol

Picking the right home defense pistol is tough since it really depends on the shooter to find the specs geared for them. While many shooters want the stopping power of a .45, some prefer the ease of a 9mm. That being the case, we’re going to look at a few different styles of pistols.

I’m a big fan of the FNX-45 Tactical because it’s dependable and packs a serious punch. Besides for its enhanced grips and sight system, the FNX-45 is fully-ambidextrous, features interchangeable backstraps, and offers a pretty sizable capacity. This isn’t the gun to carry on your hip, it’s the kind of pistol you want in your night stand.

• Model: FNX-45 Tactical
• Caliber: .45 ACP
• Capacity: 15+1
• Barrel Length: 5.3”
• Overall Length: 8.6”
• Height: 6.5”
• Width: 1.58”
• Weight: 33.3 oz.
• Finish: Matte Black
• Sights: 3-Dot Night Sights
• MSRP: $1,349

I gotta recognize Ruger for their amazing strides in improving their collection of pistols, especially the American. The new and improved Ruger American Pistol is a great choice for carrying or home defense, plus it’s affordable and customizable. Besides for its integrated Picatinny rail and Novak LoMount Carry Sights, the Ruger American provides shooters with enhanced grips, low recoil, ambidextrous controls, and a multi-safety system.

• Model: Ruger American Pro
• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 10+1
• Barrel Length: 4.2”
• Overall Length: 7.5”
• Height: 5.6”
• Width: 1.05”
• Weight: 30 oz.
• Finish: Black Nitride
• Sights: Novak LoMount Carry Sights
• MSRP: $579

Kahr Arms is one of the most overlooked pistol brands in the industry and it’s a real shame. The American gunmaker produces several great guns, many of which are incredibly affordable, including the P380 and CW380. I picked these because they are highly concealable and for their unique caliber. While the .380 ACP cartridge is often considered the bare minimum for defensive purposes, it has way more stopping power than people think. All things considered, I wouldn’t choose .380 for my home defense, but it is a great choice for some shooters.

• Model: Kahr CW380
• Caliber: .380 ACP
• Capacity: 6+1
• Barrel Length: 2.58”
• Overall Length: 4.96”
• Height: 3.9”
• Width: 0.75”
• Weight: 10.2 oz.
• Finish: Black polymer frame, matte stainless-steel slide
• Sights: Adjustable white bar-dot combat rear, pinned front
• MSRP: $419

Revolver for Home Defense

As one of the most classic firearm designs on the planet, there’s no denying the power of a solid revolver. Interestingly enough, we are actually in the midst of a revolver revolution, where many companies are reintroducing modern variations of the traditional revolver. For example, the Colt Cobra has made a big comeback and found its way into the hearts of many home defense shooters. The redesigned .38 Special six-shooter is gorgeous and an overall pleasure to shoot and own.    

• Model: Colt Cobra
• Caliber: .38 Special +P
• Capacity: 6
• Barrel Length: 2”
• Overall Length: 7.2”
• Weight: 25 oz.
• Finish: Stainless Steel Matte
• Sights: Fiber-Optic Front, Frame Trench Rear
• MSRP: $699

If you’re looking for an interesting revolver for home defense than do yourself a favor and check out the Taurus Public Defender. Taurus is becoming more popular each year, especially in light of their impressive collection of revolvers. Besides for their affordability, these firearms are known for their user-friendliness and dependable designs. The award-winning Public Defender is a nifty small frame five-shooter, chambering .45 Long Colt (410 Ga), so you know you’ve got yourself a powerful hand cannon.

• Model: Taurus Judge Public Defender
• Caliber: .45 Long Colt / 410 GA
• Capacity: 5
• Barrel Length: 2”
• Overall Length: 9”
• Weight: 26 oz.
• Finish: Blued
• Sights: Fiber-Optic
• MSRP: $363

AR 15 Home Defense

With so many impressive AR-15’s on the market, there’s almost no wrong choice for home defense. Nevertheless, there are a few models which stick out to me as solid choices for standing your ground. I happen to love Savage rifles and have recently picked up their MSR Patrol. The innovative rifle is loaded with premium features, including a sweet AXIOM carbine stock and surprisingly effective flip-up sight system.

• Model: Savage MSR Patrol
• Caliber: .223 Rem / 5.56mm
• Capacity: 30+1
• Barrel Length: 16.13”
• Overall Length: 32.5”- 35.75”
• Weight: 6.5 lbs.
• Finish: Matte Black
• MSRP: $869

The Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 is one of the most underrated AR15s on the market. Besides for their fair price-tag and reputation, these entry-level rifles offer everything you need in a home defense AR. The AM-15 is most well-known for its proprietary RF85 treatment, which essentially guarantees you never have to lube your gun – how sweet is that? However, I really like the AM-15 pistol for home defense, considering its enhanced versatility, Magpul furniture, and tactical capabilities.

• Model: AM15 Pistol
• Caliber: 5.56 NATO
• Capacity: 30+1
• Barrel Length: 7.5”
• Overall Length: 24”
• Weight: 4.9 lbs.
• Finish: Black Anodized
• MSRP: $758.70 – $958.70

Conclusion

There are so many paths you can take to properly arm yourself for home defense, but the important thing is that you take the first step. There is virtually no excuse to not be prepared, the only question is how exactly you’ll do it. Either way, please let us know your thoughts and recommendations for the best home defense weapons.

The post Best Guns for Home Defense appeared first on Gunivore.

One of the most exciting things to hit any industry in recent years has been 3D printing. The ability to print solid 3D objects is a concept which opens up brand new horizons for countless individuals and fields, and this is both alarming and invigorating.

The issue surrounding 3D-printed guns is one which has been known for many years. There are various bills which are in some kind of process, but more on that later. First off, a quick overview of 3D printing. What is it?

3D Printing

Three-dimensional digital modeling and subsequent creation – that’s what it’s about. It is the process of taking a digital model and making it into a physical object. It enables quicker access to the market and allows for more accurate experimentation within optimal conditions. You can create many intricate components and objects – big or small – using a good 3D printer. And depending on the material used, these elements can be as functional as anything you already know and trust. This is precisely what is so exciting about it. It opens up the door to many possibilities and empowers the imagination in ways which were hitherto untapped – At least not on the level of the individual, anyway.

Research and development is arguably the longest process of any physical endeavor. Or maybe non-physical, too. No idea. Either way, 3D printing has been gaining a lot of attention, and not just because of the firearms-construction capabilities. By creating a model and actually printing it out, one is able to produce a viable tool.

The printing itself is done by adding layers on top of one another. Rather than using a process of elimination or subtraction (e.g., cutting solid steel or aluminum to size), 3D printing uses addition and therefore has the ability to use less material in the process. Overall, I can see how this all translates into less waste, less cost, less time, and greater productivity.

In that sense, it is nothing short of a revolution. Not because such things have never been done, but because now it is set to become the norm. It won’t come as a surprise to me if 3D printing becomes the go-to method for many industries which currently make use of milling and machining (of some type) to produce their stuff.

3D Printing Guns

So, let’s move on to guns. I don’t know the science or history too well, to be honest, but I will give it a shot (pun slightly intended). The guns which are being printed are not complete firearms. The 3D printer creates elements which – when assembled correctly – come together to produce a working firearm. The printed parts, which are usually plastic, have the capacity to fire ordinary handgun cartridges. The only piece of a 3D-printed firearm which is metallic is the firing pin, though additional metal is added for security purposes.

The Liberator, the world’s first 3D-printed gun, was introduced in 2013. I will get more specifically into discussing the Liberator – and its designers and distributors – later in this article.

Legality

As CNet writer Marrian Zhou eloquently put it, the controversy over 3D-printed firearms “pits free speech and gun rights against public safety.” The question of 3D guns and their legal status (or lack thereof) is one which is still being explored and studied. It is probably a little too early to come to any conclusions, but here is where it stands:

These guns have no serial number, and that is already a HUGE problem. You can’t regulate what you can’t trace, and 3D-printed firearms are untraceable by definition. Any schmoe can get hold of the blueprints and manufacture a working pistol in the comfort of one’s own home. You don’t need a background check, you don’t need to report it, and you don’t need to get a tax stamp of some kind – nothing.

The probability of such weapons ending up in the wrong hands is great. Sure, you have law-abiding citizens who wouldn’t dream of using such a piece for anything but self-defense or home-defense, but on the other hand, you have the criminal elements and other parties who would be most interested in keeping such guns in circulation for their own dubious and/or morally questionable or downright objectionable purposes.

In November of 2018, a new bill – the 3D Firearms Prohibition Act – was brought forth by New Jersey Congressman Frank Pallone. Essentially, the bill seeks to reform some of the federal regulations and make it so serial numbers and registration are a legal prerequisite for the manufacturing of any 3D-printed firearm. It would make it a felony to manufacture such tools or elements without the proper authorization, and effectively ban the advertisement and use of DIY ‘assault weapons’.

The bill is currently being discussed in the House Judiciary and House Energy and Commerce committees of Congress. The State of New Jersey does indeed criminalize possession of unregistered ‘assault weapons’. Other states and municipalities also have their restrictions and regulations. Whether or not possession of 3D guns will be grounds for full-blown criminal charges is something which remains to be seen.

3D Printed Guns For Sale

Spoiler alert – there are none. Not officially, anyway.

Obviously the Dark Web (or Darknet) will be able to provide you with just about anything you could ask for, but there may be some illegal aspects to engaging in such activities. This is why it is advised you use caution and discretion, and – most importantly – that you obey the law. Ignorance of the law does not exempt the individual from incurring any penalties or the fury of a System scorned.

Blueprints of 3D guns are available, in spite of a court order which was issued to stop such blueprints from being made readily available. Since this is a matter concerning technicalities and laws – things which are not my forte – I’ll just leave it at that. The next section will hopefully clear some things up for those who are interested.

Defense Distributed

Defense Distributed was founded in 2012 by Cody Wilson, as an open-source 3D-printed-gun company. The goal of the company was to release and subsequently improve its designs for the world’s first 3D gun – the Liberator. Throughout 2012, the company experimented with designs and live fire trials of the Liberator.

When the company announced its plans, the U.S. State Department ordered Wilson and his peers to take down the website, for fear that it would be infringing on arms trafficking regulations (national and international alike). In 2015, Defense Distributed filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government in Texas, but was denied. The company appealed to a higher court, but was again denied. The company took the case to the Supreme Court, but the court would not hear the case.

In the summer of 2018, it was announced that Defense Distributed had agreed on a settlement proposed by the State Department. This meant that they were free to continue their work. However, a judge quickly ordered the suspension of that settlement. At this time, there are several lawsuits pending. All of them deal with the legality of Defense Distributed’s work, their rights to distribute blueprints, and the suspension or sustainment of the settlement which was achieved.

In what some may consider an unrelated event, Cody Wilson was recently indicted for sexual assault of a minor in Texas. Due to this controversy, Wilson was forced out of his company as founder, though he remains an employee of Ghost Gunner (Defense Distributed’s website). I don’t claim to know the ins-and-outs of the case or anything, but I do find it suspicious that these allegations of sexual assault coincide with the case against Defense Distributed and its founder.

Hey, it could very well be an unfortunate coincidence. If there was sexual assault, Wilson belongs in jail, period. That said, I wouldn’t put it past the government or certain “interested parties” to try very hard to keep Wilson down and out. Discrediting him in this way may or may not have an effect on the matter. Only time will tell.

Future of 3D Printed Guns

As you can see from the direction this article is taking and the words I have used, things are still up in the air. The future of 3D guns is unclear, since it is unfolding before our very eyes. The scene is set, the pieces are moving, but to where? Not clear.

It stands to reason that the government will have its way, and that a ban will be put into effect as soon as they can manage it. Second Amendment enthusiasts and activists are not too happy with the situation, but you can’t deny the potential danger of 3D-printed guns. Even the most avid shooter will agree that in certain hands, the ability to print a gun becomes a real danger.

No doubt that many will make the claim that firearms are dangerous and that 3D firearms are no different. Likewise, they will cite endless incidents of bloodshed and innocent lives being lost. Nevertheless, it will be up to the government and “we, the people” to come to some sort of understanding. I don’t like certain restrictions which the government puts on the second amendment, BUT you can’t run from the truth. And the truth is that a lot has changed since the Bill of Rights was written, and certain things should be looked at again. It is a slippery slope, either way you look at it.

As the capacity to create functioning firearms becomes a matter of common knowledge and ability, some regulations will probably have to be placed. Meanwhile, the eyes of the world are set on the ongoings in the U.S. Congress and House of Representatives. We will have to wait and see where this takes us.

Conclusion

Child’s play. Click and point. No CNC experience required. The blueprints are provided by a company, and all you need to do is press a button. This is what 3D-printing offers. The ability to create a working firearm in the privacy and comfort of your own home.

The ordinary citizen will simply have to wait. At some point, the dust may settle on this ongoing controversy, and we will be able to address it in a different way. But I don’t expect anything totally new, personally. Governments and governing bodies were put in place to control populations, after all. I am not an anarchist by any means, but it’s true. It’s about control. And in this case, gun control. Sometimes it is necessary, sometimes it is understandable, and sometimes it really is part of a sinister agenda brought on by someone wearing a suit and tie.

Will criminals, terrorists, and other malevolent individuals want to take advantage of such printing tech? Absolutely. No doubt. Chances are good that they are already engaging in such practices. This has always been the case. Laws are passed, and people find ways around them. The reality is that the government is usually trying to play catch-up with the manufacturers, not the other way around.

The post Everything You Need To Know About 3D Printed Guns appeared first on Gunivore.

Table of Contents

• Shelves
• Mirror
• Furniture
• Clock
• Conclusion

Tactical Walls is a family-owned and -operated business based in Shenandoah Valley, Virginia, which manufactures hand-crafted discrete storage solutions, mean for hiding valuables and concealing firearms. Tactical Walls prides itself with using US-sourced quality materials, whenever possible.

The company was established in October of 2012, and it has been growing steadily ever since. Founded by Tim Matter – who was trying to come up with an idea for maximizing firearms storage space in his home – the company’s first product, the 1450M full-length mirror, was introduced in January of 2013.

Tactical Walls is all about empowering the individual in the face of danger and emergency, and providing the victim of a home invasion was a fighting chance of staving off would-be attackers, burglars, etc. Here is an overview of their various products.

Tactical Walls Shelf

1242 RLS
This rifle-length concealment shelf is the company’s largest surface-mounted storage solution. It boasts a foam-lined compartment 12-inches deep and 42-inches wide. The product is installed like any ordinary shelf, and access to the hidden compartment is achieved by using the provided keys (magnetic or RFID).

The foam in the compartment is customizable: simply cut as needed and attach to the bottom of the compartment. It is available in a variety of finishes, and there is an option for motion sensor-activated LED illumination. Two brackets are also provided, which can be used for added support and/or as bookends. CR123 battery included with RFID.

Max Weight Load 20lb on shelf / 20lb in hidden compartment
Material Finished Poplar, Birch plywood, Pine
Width 50 ¾ inches
Height 5 inches
Depth 14 ½ inches

Material Polyester foam
Depth 12 inches
Width 42 inches
Thickness 1 ½ inches
Magnetic, RFID lock
Price: $399-674

825 PLS
This is a shelf designed for dual pistols and (small) accessories. It has a foam-lined hidden compartment 8-inches long and 25-inches wide. Like the 1242, it also comes fully assembled with all of the necessary mounting equipment. RFID or magnetic keys come with it, and there is also the option for motion-activated LED. Two brackets are provided, which can be used for added support and/or as bookends. CR123 battery included with RFID.

Max Weight Load 10lb on shelf and 10lb in hidden compartment
Material Finished Poplar, Birch plywood, and Pine
Width 35 ¼ inches
Height 5 inches
Depth 10 ¼ inches

Material Polyester foam
Depth 8 inches
Thickness 1½ inches
Width 25 inches
Magnetic, RFID lock
Price: $315-565

812 PLS
Much like its dual-holding sibling, this shelf is made for a single pistol, a mag, and some accessories. This is the smallest shelf the company has to offer, and it is otherwise identical to the 825. RFID or magnetic, brackets for shelf support, and optional sensor-activated LED illumination. CR123 battery included with RFID.

Max Weight Load 10lb on shelf and 10lb in hidden compartment
Material Finished Poplar & Pine Wood
Width 17 inches
Depth 10 ¼ inches
Height 5 inches

Material Polyester foam
Depth 7.75 inches
Width 10.25 inches
Thickness 1.5 inches
Magnetic, RFID lock
Price: $245-435

Modernist PLS
This relatively new addition to the ‘shelf aisle’ of the Tactical Walls website is a pistol-length shelf. It is somewhat smaller, with a black finish and magnetic locking mechanism. Good for a pistol and extra mag. Sensor-activated LED illumination is optional.

Max Weight Load 10lb on top shelf and 10lb in hidden compartment
Material: Furniture grade birch plywood
Exterior Dimensions
Width 15 inches
Depth 10 inches
Height 3 inches

Usable Interior Dimensions
Width 12 inches
Depth 7 ½ inches
Height 2 inches

Foam Dimensions (These do not account for the lock cutout)
Width 12 inches
Depth 7 ½ inches
Height 1 ½ inches

Tactical Walls Mirror

1420M
A short mirror designed for concealing a single pistol or similar firearm, along with some mags and accessories. Behind the mirror is a hidden compartment, allowing for quick access to your weapon in a time of need. Comes with several optional accessories (such as LED illumination), and a choice of either a magnetic or RFID lock. The 1420M can be designed as a mirror, chalkboard, dry erase board, framed image, and there is also the option of creating a personalized front cover from your image. The mirror can be purchased in one of several finishes, and its cavity insert is made of ABS plastic. CR123 battery included with RFID. The mirror itself is encased in a full hardwood frame.

COVER
Frame Material Poplar Wood / Furniture Grade Birch plywood
Width 22.5 inches, fully opened 39 inches
Height 30.25 inches
Depth 2 inches

INSERT
Material ABS plastic w/ Velcro
Width 14 inches
Height 20 inches
Depth 3.5 inches
Price: $370-610

1450M
This is a full-length mirror, able to conceal several pistols and magazines, with room left over for a rifle and accessories. The 1450M includes two different-sized inserts, made of ABS plastic with Velcro loops. Like its smaller counterpart, this storage solution comes with several options (such as LED illumination, coat hooks, and extra shelves), and a choice of either a magnetic or RFID lock. A CR123 battery is included with the RFID lock. The mirror itself is encased in a full hardwood frame, and the backing has a magnetic element which makes for a much cleaner look.

COVER
Material: Finished Poplar Wood
Furniture Grade Birch Plywood (Sub-frame)
Width: Closed 22.5 inches, fully opened 39 inches
Height: 60 inches
Insert Depth 3.5 inches
Frame Depth from the wall out: 2.5 inches

1410 INSERT
Material: ABS Plastic w/ loop side Velcro
Width: 14 inches
Height: 10 inches
Depth: 3.5 inches

1440 INSERT
Material: ABS Plastic w/ loop side Velcro
Width: 14 inches
Height: 40 inches
Depth: 3.5 inches
Magnetic, RFID lock
Price: $499-769

Concealment Furniture

Night Stand

‘Hiding in plain sight’ is a part of the Tactical Walls philosophy, and their tables are a true testament to that. This nightstand, being an actual table, requires no installation of any kind. Made of maple wood, clean, sleek, and elegant – it is one of the finest ways to keep your valuables and/or firearms hidden. There are several finishes to choose from, and the foam lined compartment can be cut to the user’s needs.

Exterior Table Dimensions 23 L x 23 W x 31 H (inches)
Interior Compartment Dimensions 14L x 11 3/4W x 2H (inches)
RFID lock, 2 keys included, CR123 battery included
Price: $685

End Table

Like the nightstand, this is also made of maple and features a highly polished and elegant look, in several finishes. It requires no installation of any kind and comes with a foam pad for customizing your storage area.

Exterior Table Dimensions 23L x 23W x 25H (inches)
Interior Compartment Dimensions 14L x 11 ¾W x 2H (inches)
RFID lock, 2 keys included, CR123 battery included
Price: $685

Tactical Walls Clock

This is an exceptional item because unlike the other ones on this list, it does NOT lock. What it does do, however, is provide you with some mighty quick access to your handgun(s), mags, or other valuables. The clock’s insert is made of ABS plastic and can carry up to 10 lb. Numbering is available in Arabic, Roman, or custom numerals. Access the insert by pushing on the 12 O’Clock position, and then simply detaching the face to uncover the hidden compartment.

CLOCK
Width 22 inches
Height 22 inches
Depth 3.5 inches
Max Weight Load 10 lb
Material The clock body is a decorative ABS plastic. The face is a canvas print (custom image optional). The inside has an adhesive backed velcro loop.

1410 INSERT
Material ABS plastic w/ velcro
Width 14 inches
Height 10 inches
Depth 3.5 inches
Price: $129-239

Conclusion

They may not have invented the concept of the mirror or table safe, but they sure managed to take it to their own level and make it personal. This series of locking and non-locking safes is some of the finest-looking storage solutions out there. Tactical Walls also offer some very cool gifts and extras (available through their website), for those who are interested.

Since it was founded, Tactical Walls has been doing a lot of great work, and I have no doubt their future projects will be just as exciting and interesting. Are there cheaper options out there? Yes, of course. But you get what you pay for. Also, considering the fact that these are crafted by hand, and mostly sourced from within the U.S., there is no reason not to check them out.

You may also like our Gun Safe Overview and Zore X Gun Lock Review

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Table of Contents

• Gun Case
• Pistol Case
• Rifle Case
• Foam
• Sizes

Pelican Products, the team behind some of the most highly-rated and popular protective cases on the market, opened up back in 1976. While they may look like your run-of-the-mill protective cases, the folks at Pelican are trusted around the world for producing packing solutions in markets as sensitive and demanding as aerospace, military, life sciences, and industrial engineering. That being the case, the Torrance, California-based company and its 22 international offices manufacture only the best. The team behind Pelican originally set out to produce durable flashlights and protective cases that could withstand the trying needs of a regular SCUBA diver. Since ’76, they’ve grown immensely and are now the largest manufacturer of equipment protection cases on the planet. Similarly, they’ve expanded their collection, which now includes diverse products such as phone cases, luggage, LED lighting tools, and biothermal packaging. After several expansions, the California-based manufacturer decided to change the layout of their company and split their team into four subdivisions: Biothermal, international, consumer, & commercial/government.

Pelican Gun Case

As light, compact, durable, and reliable protective cases, it didn’t take long for Pelican to market their products to the firearms community. In fact, they currently distribute dozens of cases for all sorts of guns and ammo, in a variety of sizes. Pelican is such a popular choice for gun owners because these top-shelf cases offer watertight, dustproof, crushproof, easy-open throw latches, solid wall design, lightweight, o-ring seal, interior pressure balance, & lifetime guarantee protection. While these cases might seem expensive, it really adds up when you consider how much a simple case has to offer. It’s actually quite insane really. Without exaggeration, I don’t think you’ll find a better case for storing or transporting firearms.

Pelican Pistol Case

If you’re in the market for a gun case for your pistol, whether to transport, store, or carry, Pelican is probably the best out there. These are arguably the most popular and highly-rated cases on the market and for good reason. I’m a huge fan of the Model 1170 in particular, but it’s hard not to love their iM2050 Storm Case. The Storm Case is special primarily because of its unique Press & Pull latch which locks automatically yet opens with just a light touch. Additionally, these top-rated cases feature two padlockable hasps. Their popular soft-grip handle, lightweight strong HPX Resin, and their Vortex Valve.

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Pelican Rifle Case

So, as impressive as Pelican’s pistol cases are, their rifle cases are on a whole new level. If you’re looking to protect your rifle, then you ought to consider a Pelican rifle case. These unbelievably highly-rated cases are available all over the place, especially online, and offer supreme protection, versatility, overall value. The American-made rifle cases are perfect for taking your precious rifles on your next hunting trip, or whether you’re looking for a smart way to store your long guns. Built from high impact polymers, these cases are easy to transport without sacrificing even an iota of protection or durability. Besides for their premier protection, these cases also offer heavy-duty, ergonomic handling.

Pelican Case Foam

While Pelican is best known for their superior polymers protective cases, so much of this protection is due to their proprietary foam. In addition to their padded dividers and popular TrekPak, Pelican’s standard-issue foam is anything but standard. As an added bonus, Pelican provides customers with the option to customize the fit and size of their foam to meet your specific needs. Recently, Pelican launched their Design Your Foam Program. This is especially useful for gun owners who are looking to give their firearms the exact protection they deserve.

Pelican Case Sizes

Whether you want to customize your protection for your firearm or just want high-grade protection, Pelican has you covered. In addition to their Case Calculator, they’ve got a nearly endless array of sizes to choose from.

Thanks for joining us here at Gunivore!

Further Reading: Plano All-Weather Tactical Gun Cases

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