August 2015

Go on any message board or jump into a discussion about what makes the best home defense gun with your buddies the next time you’re at the range and you’re sure to hear a number of opinions. Shotguns—most often pump actions or semi-autos—are a top choice of many practitioners due to the spread of pellets making precise aiming a little less of a concern under duress, as well as a perceived lack of pass through on walls. For others, particularly concealed carry permit holders, the portability and familiarity of the handgun they carry is the way to go even in the home. But as AR-style rifles have become more popular with recreational shooters and collectors, it’s important to note that this most versatile of tactical weapons also makes for an efficient and dependable firearm to use in home defense situations as well. Here are five great reasons ARs make a great choice. Continue reading →

During a training session in Arizona at GPS Defense Sniper School, which originally offered courses in tactical AR shooting and tactical handgun as well, instructors were teaching us the proper hold for an AR in a combative situation. Most of the students in attendance that day were more hunters and traditional bolt-gun guys than semi-auto pros, but everyone was eager to learn more and become better shots. Many of the initial drills involved turning toward a stationary target and firing squared off toward the target as if wearing body armor, crouching and firing three-shot bursts. Many of us continued to want to grip the forend like that of a shotgun, the rifle resting firmly in the upward turned, U-grip of the non-dominant hand. For better control, however, we were taught to reach to the front end of the rail, in effect, pulling the rifle tightly back into the shoulder as we fired. The grip definitely provided better aim stability and firing control, especially when releasing multiple bursts. Continue reading →