As the weather gets cooler, we usually add an extra layer of clothing. That layer is just one more thing we have to move out of the way in order to access our defensive firearm. Clearing a cover…

Grips? Stocks? If we can suspend — just for a moment — which term to use when referring to the “handle” of a handgun, I’d like to explain why I’ve got these on an S&W 638, a popular J-frame for…

I was recently reminded of how important it is to be a conscientious gun owner. This covers a lot of ground, but it starts with simple, common-sense maintenance. I can’t even count the number of…

During my short stint working retail gun sales at Vance Outdoors in Columbus, Ohio, I frequently had my eyes — and sometimes hands — on the 9mm Remington R51. Why? I’ve mentioned in the past that I…

A proper concealed carry rig — whatever keeps your gun safely secured to your person — includes gear described as not only functional and safe but also long-lasting, robust and strong. However, we…

The venerable 1911 series of pistols has gone through many changes in form and available calibers over its 107-year history. While the original “manstopper” .45 ACP is still the most popular choice,…

I just got another letter asking about the “right” way to grasp a slide. The author said he had an instructor tell him to use the slide release lever. Some instructors tell people they should only…

No gun or knife or tactical pen featured here today — just a $10 keychain tool that’s found its way into my everyday carry gear. It’s an important tool because of one key function (pun intended):…

Every person who intends to guard home and hearth and kith and kin ought to have a minimum of three guns — a handgun, a rifle and a shotgun — for defensive purposes. The 12-gauge pump shotgun in particular is incredibly versatile and has a fearsome reputation amongst bad guys.

Imagine you are part of the crowd of concertgoers at the country music festival in Las Vegas at the moment Stephen Paddock opens fire from his 32nd floor room, and you are carrying whatever pistol…

The Ideal Conceal Pistol looks like a smartphone until you flip down the grip to reveal the trigger of a two-shot, derringer-style .380 pistol. This “cellphone gun,” as some people are calling it,…

Most people who have taken the time and effort to get a concealed carry permit have done so because of a desire for preparedness. They wish to make sure that they are ready to deal with felonious…