To The Range - First Time or Getting Back

Background

Did you just buy a firearm? New to shooting and going to the range for the first time? Has it been so long that you forgot what to expect. No problem, I'm here to help. We all know the feeling. Firearms can be very intimidating to new or inexperienced shooters, and there are so many things to remember including that long list of rules the range will ask you to review before you enter your lane. Let's ease you into that experience by establishing some expectations up front.

Safety Reminder

Before you start, let's remember the safety fundamentals:

1. Always assume the firearm is loaded
2. Keep your finger off the trigger and out of the trigger guard until you are ready to shoot
3. Keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction and never toward anything you aren't willing to destroy
4. Be sure of your target and what's behind it

Before You Go

Read the Manual

I know many people have a natural tendency to skip reading owners manuals, but this is one you cannot skip. Owners manuals are usually a short read but contain critical information. Read it. Make sure you understand it. Read your firearm. Key pieces of information including caliber & some warning will be printed on the firearm itself.

Familiarize Yourself With the Firearm

Long before you hit the range, say a few weeks or at least a few days, pull your firearm out and become familiar with it. Make sure it's unloaded, and start handling the firearm in a safe way. Get a good feel for the grip. Try different grips to find the hand placement that works for you. If you are shooting a semi-automatic, practice moving the slide back and forward smoothly in a controlled manner (don't let it slam forward). Practice locking the slide back. If it's a rifle or shotgun, practice the action (pump, lever, bolt etc.). Get a feel for how it works. Pick up the firearm and practice aiming (in a safe direction while it's unloaded). Be sure you know how to grip and manage the firearm well, rehearsing in your head the shooting dynamics. For semi-automatics, with the firearm and magazine unloaded, practice inserting an empty magazine and releasing it.

Practice safety steps like ensuring the firearm is unloaded and safe. Make sure all the components are secure. Check your magazines to make sure the springs seem to be functioning well. If your firearm has a detachable magazine, load and unload the magazine a few times to make sure you have that down and to check the magazine itself under pressure. Field strip the firearm. Yep, take it apart (the major components) and inspect them. Make sure you have oil/lube in the right places, and that the barrel is clean and dry. 

Clean It

When you purchased your firearm, you should have purchased a cleaning kit with it. If you didn't, do so right now, before you use the firearm. Some firearms come with factory lube or oil that will help the firearm function without needing to clean it before first use, however it's considered best practice to clean and oil the firearm before you take your first shot. Cleaning it will also give you an opportunity to practice handling the firearm and inspecting the components - especially the barrel. The owners manual will describe how to clean & oil the firearm, but Hickok45 has some great tutorials for different firearm types:

Glock Cleaning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZf4mUM10Vc
Revolver Cleaning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kiWNZgtu2uw&nohtml5=False
AR Cleaning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwK3j615734&nohtml5=False
1911 Cleaning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8wPPUXU3Lhc&nohtml5=False

Practice

I highly recommend purchasing Snap Caps for your firearm as they allow you to safely load, chamber a round, and practice pulling the firearm's trigger. Snap Caps are "blanks" that don't actually make a sound when you pull the trigger, but allow you to repeatedly dry-fire your firearm without causing any damage. Do that a few times just to get the feel of the trigger and to practice the mechanics of loading, aiming, and pulling the trigger.

Eyes and Ears

Make sure you have a good set of eye and ear protection before you head to the range. You can most likely rent a set there, but a basic set will cost you no more than $30-$40 dollars, so it's well worth the investment.

At the Range

When you arrive, if it's your first time or if you haven't been in a while, you'll likely be asked to review safety information & range rules. You may be asked to present your firearms & ammunition to ensure they are safe (unloaded) and of an ammunition type that is approved by your range. Some ranges will ask you to answer a series of questions about the material you read. Don't worry, and don't get stressed out. Most of the information will be common sense.

Oh, and don't forget to grab a few targets. When selecting targets, choose ones that will be useful to help you train - shooting in small groups in a controlled manner. You might be tempted to pick up a zombie target or a hostage target. That's fine too, but I find that target sheets that have multiple targets on them are the best bang for my buck.

In the Booth

Ok, it's time to get serious. Breath, relax. This is where I started freaking out on my first range visit. I was alone in that booth, alone on the range, with my firearm and ammunition. Take a few breaths. There's no rush. No pressure. Unpack your firearm and point the barrel down range. Pull out your ammunition and magazines and set them beside your firearm. Keep the area as clear as you can and make sure your eyes and ears are on.

If you are pistol shooting, I recommend you set your target between 5-7 yards away. That may not seem like much, but trust me. If you are rifle shooting, try 25 yards to start. Once you feel comfortable, you can always move that target. Right now, it's about easing into this process as safely, securely, and comfortably as possible.

Load up a magazine (or cylinder), and chamber a round.

Stance & Grip

There are many ways to stand and shoot, but there are generally two types used by professionals: the weaver and the isosceles. Google them for some video tutorials. Try these two out and go with what works for you. You can place your feet in a parallel stance, with both arms extended straight in front of you, parallel, gripping the firearm grip with your dominant hand, while wrapping the other hand around it. Alternately, you can stand with your dominate foot behind your other foot. This will naturally turn your body slightly. Grip the pistol with your dominant hand, arm straight, wrapping your other hand around the first, but bending your second arm slightly. Either way, once you have a strong stance, lean forward slightly and bring the firearm up to your eye level.

Rifles are different of course since one had will be on the grip, the other on the fore-end. There's not a lot of variation here. If your range allows it (and you aren't shooting a shotgun), try shooting from a seated position first.

Make sure you have a firm grip, but don't squeeze too hard. Just firm.

A few side notes about your grip. First, if you are shooting a semi-automatic pistol, keep your hand and fingers away from the slide. Don't have any part of your hand touching the slide, or directly behind the slide. If you do, it can cause a minor injury when a shot is fired. Second, if you are shooting a revolver, keep your hands clear of the cylinder (behind and below). If you are too close, you'll feel a blast. If you are even closer. Well...

Sight Picture

This is going to vary from firearm to firearm, but I'll speak from generalities. If you are shooting a pistol, you should have a sight picture that presents 3 dots to you or 3 points of reference: two at the rear of the slide or pistol, one at the front of the barrel or slide. You want those three dots to line up, or if you don't have dots, you want the front sight to fill the space between the rear sights. For AR sights, you want that front post in the center of your rear sight. Focus on the front sight or front dot and look through it toward your target. You want that front dot directly where you want to make a hole or impact on your target.

Before You Pull the Trigger

More safety information for you. Don't pull that trigger yet. After you do, if you've pulled that trigger all the way back and nothing happens. Stop. Don't pull it again. Keep the firearm pointed down range for a good 30+ seconds. You may have a round in the chamber that has a delayed ignition and it could go off at any moment. With the firearm pointed down range, drop the magazine, then pull the slide fully rearward and lock it back. Inspect the chamber and make sure it is clear. If the round is still chambered, put the firearm down and go get help.

If you pull the trigger and hear the boom, the slide retracts, but doesn't close all the way, stop. Drop the magazine by pressing the magazine release button and removing it. Pull the slide fully rearward and lock it. Inspect the chamber. The brass may not have fully ejected and may have caused some other problem. Clear the brass. If a round is in the chamber, drop the slide gently, and pull it back again. Repeat a few times to make sure that round is extracted successfully.

Trigger Pull

Ok, take a few deep breaths again. Relax. The gun is about to go boom and you are about to feel recoil. The recoil won't hurt, but the shot will surprise you. Let it happen. The key here is aim, but don't worry so much about being precise. Your first few shots should be about getting comfortable with pulling the trigger, feeling the recoil, and hearing the sound. You need to aim and be sure of your target, but try to focus on just getting to know the experience, and no so much about shot placement. You'll probably be tempted right away to change your grip. Go for it.

Some keys here. I recommend pulling that trigger slowly, all the way rearward, then releasing after the boom. Do that a few times. You'll notice there is a bit of up-take before the firing pin strikes the primer (before the boom). This is a safety feature in semi-automatic pistols, giving you a chance to be sure you want to pull that trigger. In double action revolvers, this is part of the cycling process. Every gun is different, so you want to really get to know that feeling, and get to know when the "click" or "bang" will happen.

If you are shooting a rifle, that up-take may not be present. As soon as the trigger moves on a stock AR for example, it goes bang.

Follow-Up Shots

Ok, now that you have the initial experience under your belt. Have fun. Enjoy the next however many shots. Try variations on target distance. Shoot in groups and change targets once you lose track of where the last hole was. You need to be able to discern where that last shot went so you know where to aim for the next shot. Take it easy, stay in control, breathe, and have fun!

Be safe and have fun.

Firearms Myth 7: Gun Ownership is Rare

Ok, this one really bugs me. It's not necessarily a stated myth. It's more implied by nature of the media and Democrat politicians demonizing gun ownership in America as some fringe, legacy attribute of our Republic left over from the days of hunting. It's perpetuated by politicians who pass laws restricting the purchasing process, ownership, or ammunition supply, claiming those laws keep firearms out of the hands of criminals. See the implication there? It's that most people engaged in purchasing firearms or related goods, have malicious intent or are up to no good. By creating this image that pro-gun people are either legacy in mindset or malicious in nature, the media and politicians are planting the thought in your mind that gun owners are few and far between.

As gun sales are currently surging at record numbers, there are also ongoing attempts by mainstream media outlets to say gun ownership is actually declining. Yep. Crazy huh? I've cited a few articles below where these media outlets - in the same article - present a series of facts (selected facts) and then present their analysis, based on a ton of unstated assumptions, to try to get you to think that gun ownership is declining. To the myth!

Firearms Myth 7: Gun ownership is rare.

This myth couldn't be further from the truth. I'll even use the mainstream media's data points & articles to illustrate this.

According to a 2013 report from the Pew Research Center (see http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2013/06/04/a-minority-of-americans-own-guns-but-just-how-many-is-unclear/), 1/3 of Americans admitted that someone in their household owns a firearm. Sure, that is a minority of the population, but consider that for a moment. One out of every three houses on your street, in your neighborhood, in your apartment complex, contains a gun owner. The Pew Research Center goes on to estimate there are around 310 million firearms owned privately in the US, enough to arm every man, woman and child. That's a lot of owners, and a lot of firearms. As a side note, given liberal democrat hysteria about firearm ownership, you'd think with 1/3 households owning firearms, there would be mass shootings or gun battles on every street corner. One article below even claims suicide rates increase with gun ownership, yet nationally, as gun ownership increases, homicides and suicides involving a firearm are dropping drastically.

Now, a quick caveat. Statistics on gun ownership are generally believed to be on the low-end because many survey responders who are gun owners are hesitant to provide specifics due to privacy concerns. So gun ownership numbers are likely lower than actuals.

Let's restate that. It's likely that at least 1 out of every 3 homes in America contains a firearm owner, and that number is likely low.

Not so rare after-all. In fact, recent studies have shown gun ownership in America is skyrocketing with monthly sales continuing to set records and doubling in figures since 2011.

According to the NRA-ILA (see here https://www.nraila.org/articles/20150911/summer-2015-new-record-for-gun-sales), FBI data indicates firearms sales in the US increased month-over-month for 8 straight months in 2015, with more recent articles indicating 2016 is continuing the trend. The trend or surge started in 2010, when Democrats starting with President Obama began threatening new legislation to restrict firearm ownership. Surges have also followed terrorist attacks, and the growing ISIS threat. Regardless, the data says gun purchases have been increasing since 2010 and are still growing.

Another study by the Pew Research Center in 2015 showed that the majority of Americans at 52% favor securing gun rights for Americans and decreasing restrictions on purchasing & ownership. http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2015/04/17/despite-lower-crime-rates-support-for-gun-rights-increases/

Here's another fun trend. According to data in 2015 published by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), women represent a considerable demographic of new gun owners. According to their research, more than 30% of gun purchases since 2010 (the current surge), were by women. Further, more than 40% of women who own a gun, personally own more than 1 and have purchased them in the past 10 years. Other data suggests these numbers are even higher in 2016. See here http://www.gunsandammo.com/gun-culture/women-gun-owners-nssf-1/. Among many women surveyed, they cite personal defense as the primary reason to purchase a new firearm. That aligns with FBI statistics on the growing number of CCW applications. Threats are increasing and people want the assurance that if confronted with a personal threat, they will have the upper hand.

Now let's look at the numbers in another way.

According to data from the Washington Post (https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2015/10/21/the-average-gun-owner-now-owns-8-guns-double-what-it-used-to-be/), the average gun owner in America owns more than 8 firearms. I'll say that again. The average gun owner in America owns more than 8 firearms. That's 2013 data, during the period of record breaking sales that are increasing in volume & frequency. It's likely well beyond 8 firearms per owner at this point. Well beyond in fact, as the Washington Post also claims (although there's no hard data to support this), that many new purchases are by existing gun owners. If that's true, then the ratio of guns to owners is rapidly increasing.

So, let's correlate that to the households statistic. If every owner owns at least 8 guns, and there's an owner in 1 of every 3 homes in America, that's far more than 2 firearms for every home. That supports the Pew Research Center's assertion that there are enough firearms for every man, woman, and child in America.

Now, the Washington Post article goes on to claim that the number of households containing a firearm is down from the 50% rate observed in the 70s, thus inferring that gun ownership is on the decline. That's their guess, and not necessarily supported by the data. In fact the data directly conflicts with that myth. You see what's happening? They give you data, then twist it with their analysis to leave you with a myth. With gun sales skyrocketing today, and most buys being first-time buyers, that tells us ownership on a per capita perspective is steadily rising, despite the surveys.

The Washington Post also commented in one recent story that along with gun sales, applications for CCWs are increasing. Now, that doesn't necessarily imply a 1:1 ratio of new gun owners, but it does imply more interest in concealed carry. The Washington Post also noted (here: https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2016/01/05/gun-sales-hit-new-record-ahead-of-new-obama-gun-restrictions/) that gun sales surge after tragic events and calls from politicians for new gun control. That could indicate existing gun owners are buying up before new restrictions are implemented, but that doesn't answer the correlation between a tragedy, calls for CCWs, and new purchases. That correlation actually implies new owners. In fact, surveys following tragedies like mass shootings and terrorist attacks, show overwhelming support among the public for increased gun ownership and decreased restrictions. That's right. The Washington Post says ownership is declining, but people purchasing guns say the opposite.

I wonder if these media outlets actually talk to gun owners. In my own experience at local shops and ranges, I often see first time buyers. In fact, the majority of people hovering around the gun counter seem to be novices.

The numbers are muddy as you can tell. So are some of the articles I've referenced as the news outlets taint their analysis with their anti-gun agenda, again, trying to dispense the myth that gun ownership is rare. It's not. It's extremely popular and increasing, with national support for gun rights on the rise.

Myth busted.

Firearms Myth 6: AR stands for Assault Rifle

Ok, straight to the chase on this one. There are several related myths that I'll join into this one parent myth often perpetuated by the media. I'm sure you've heard it:

Firearms myth 6: AR stands for assault rifle.

The example or image used by the media and anti-gun people is the very common AR-15 platform. The M-16 and M-4 rifles used by the military are variations of the civilian AR-15. Often times, the media refers to these as "assault rifles" as do politicians. In fact, search for assault rifle ban and you'll see images of politicians handling AR-15s. Well it's in the name isn't it? Doesn't AR in AR-15 stand for assault rifle?

Uh, no.

That's the first problem. The AR in AR-15 stands for ArmaLite, the original designer & manufacturer of the rifle who sole the rights to the design to Colt in 1959. Today, many other manufacturers produce variants of the AR-15, so the name persists, although some manufactures such as Smith & Wesson have opted to dump the AR designation, replacing it with something unique. In the S&W example, their AR variant is designated the M&P 15. It's still an AR.

Regardless of the name, the media still likes to use that rifle as synonymous with the term "assault" Here's problem #2. A rifle is an object. Assault is an action. A rifle cannot assault anyone. You can't affix an action (a verb) to a an inanimate object. It's like calling all beer cold beer. It's not always. It depends upon what you've done with the beer - an action you must take to affect how he beer is used. You must make it cold. So is true of the AR. Any rifle can be used for assault, but simply being a rifle does not mean it will be or must be.

So, let's stop the discrimination of AR owners and labeling of inanimate objects. An AR rifle is a sporting rifle. No, it's not the same as the military M4 or M16 even if it looks similar and has similar functions. Sure, you can get military spec AR-15s, but these are still different in function, namely they are lacking the full automatic mode or "fun switch."

Stop it. It's not an assault rifle. It's an ArmaLite 15 variant. A bolt action .22 can be used for assault, just as a hammer can be. So stop perpetuating lies. Now you are informed.

Firearms Myth 5: Lots Means Malicious Intent

Disclaimer: this is a blog - a diary of my thoughts on things related to firearms. This is not intended to be a definitive guide to legal issues on firearms. These are my opinions, as they have been formed through my own private research & analysis. Do your own research. Consider this one data point.

Firearms Myth 5: Lots of <ammo or guns> means a person has malicious intent.

I'm sure you've heard it before or have read it. Some news article is released about someone who owns a lot of ammunition or firearms, and the speculation stirs:

"What were they planning to do with all those firearms?"
"Why would someone need all those firearms?"
"Why did they have all that ammunition?"
"What kind of person does that?"

The questions are often linked to an assumption that the only reason one would purchase & store numerous firearms or high quantities of ammunition, is if they had malicious intent. The media adds to the speculation - they must have been up to something - planning an attack, maybe selling firearms on the black market, maybe a crazy person storing up for armageddon.

That's all bogus. Statistically speaking, it is believed that 1/3 of US Households contain a firearm owner, and it is estimated that the average number of firearms owned by any one gun owner, is 8. Yep, 1 out of every 3 houses on your street contains around 8 firearms. If you store some range and defense ammunition for each firearm - let's just say 100 rounds (that's 2 regular sized boxes of bulk ammo), that's at least 800 rounds. 100 rounds lasts you maybe an hour at the range, so it's likely you'l store a few hundred rounds per firearm to begin with. Let's say you bought one of the bulk cases of ammunition for each of those firearms at 500 rounds each. That quickly builds up to 4,000+ rounds. Maybe your local firearm shop has a holiday sale and a case of bulk ammunition is marked at a significant discount. The cost conscious person might choose to buy another case now to save money over the year or years. Let's say there was a threat by the federal government to ban a certain type of ammunition that particular owner cherishes and they order 4 bulk cases. You can see how ammunition numbers can add up quickly. 10,000 rounds of ammunition is suddenly...actually quite reasonable.

In the initial months following the inauguration of president Obama, federal agencies began buying up ammunition at incredible rates. It became known that a policy of the administration was to create a supply problem among the public by using federal agencies to purchase all available ammunition at a rate that exceeded production. This was a method used to try to curb gun ownership without passing legislation. Ammunition became scarce and prices soared...so people stored up. They bought everything they could find, and in large quantities because they didn't know if or when supply would normalize. Fortunately, manufacturing caught up, and public scrutiny on these federal purchases caused the administration to back down. One of the results now, was people with large quantities of ammunition stored, and the concern that it could happen again - thus driving more bulk buying.

Ok, ammo makes sense, but wait...what about that estimate of 8 firearms per gun owner in America. Isn't that extreme? Why so many?

Simple. Let's say you start your journey into firearms ownership, as most people do, for personal defense reasons. You do your research, and decide a pistol fits your needs. Not sure where to start, but the store clerk recommends a Glock 19 as a good all-around pistol. Great. Purchase #1. You take it to the range, and enjoy shooting it. You get pretty good. But, it doesn't feel exactly the way you hoped it would in your carry option and you either plan to concealed carry (legally) in public or at home. Then, a manufacturer comes out with a new model that looks better; a slim package that feels great in your hand. M&P Shield becomes purchase #2. You take it to the range, and realize shooting is just fun period. Soon, you start inviting friends, and one of your friends brings along a rifle. You try it out and realize rifle shooting is fun too. You do your research, and decide to purchase something easy to shoot and readily available, let's say an AR-15. Great. Purchase #3. You love shooting it, and while at the range, you see people shooting clay targets with shotguns. Mossberg 500 is purchase #4.

See where I'm going with this? It adds up fast. Let's say you become so interested, you want to buy one firearm of each of the major designs:

1. Striker fired semi-automatic pistol
2. Hammer fired semi-automatic pistol
3. Revolver
4. Semi-automatic rifle
5. Shotgun
6. Bolt action rifle
7. Lever action rifle
8. Rimfire rifle

That's 8. If you plus 1 any of those categories, let's say for another caliber choice or frame size in the same function category, that easily gets you beyond the national average.

Is that extreme? Well, let's compare it to other sports. Let's pick on golf. Does a golfer hit the course with 1 club? Nope. He hits the range geared up with a bag that contains likely 10-11 clubs. Each club is intended for a different purpose. How about someone passionate about physical fitness. Do they purchase 1 exercise tool or 1 weight? Nope. Often times, they have multiple exercise platforms and multiple weights. I've known people who transformed their entire garage into a personal gym. I've known others who simply transform a room with a multi-purpose set, a stationary bike, some free weights, and maybe a yoga ball & some other accessories. What about a mechanic or wood worker? They don't just buy 1 set of wrenches or 1 saw. They have loads and loads of tools for different functions & capabilities. All of these different tools are designed for different purposes and we have no problem with bikers with multiple bikes, exercise buffs with loads of gear, golfers with 10, 11, 15, 20 clubs etc.

So should be true with firearms. A .22 rimfire is great for cheap, fun plinking or for beginners. 9mm is a great all-purpose round. Semi-automatic pistols are great all-around platforms but come in many shapes & configurations depending upon use. Then there's rifles of various types & calibers. There are lots of these "tools" and lots of them are collectables. It's totally normal for a firearm owner to have several firearms.

Let's explore this along another common path: hunting. You start with an interest in deer hunting and looking at your options, settle on a bolt-action rifle in a moderate caliber, say a Remington 700 in .270. Great, gun #1. You start practicing at the range and have a lot of fun. You realize having a sidearm while out on the hunt is probably a good idea (and recommended by your hunting buddies). You look around and choose a revolver because of the higher caliber options available to you, and since you plan on being out in the woods, who knows what you might encounter. You need 100% reliability. That shot must go off. Smith & Wesson 629 becomes gun #2. This combination works for a while, then a friend of yours invites you turkey hunting...gunna need a shotgun. Mossberg 930 becomes gun #3. That works. Now you want to have some fun, cost-effective plinking time in the off-season to continue maturing your skills. Enter Ruger 10/22 and gun #4. After a few years, you decide to up your game again and go for elk. You'll need a larger caliber...let's say a Ruger American in .308. Gun #5. See what I mean? Yeah, but that's a hunter, you say.

How about military (active or inactive)? You were trained to shoot and love it. Let's assume you start with what's familiar: an AR-15, a Beretta 92, and a 1911. That's 3 just to start. In fact, I've had friends who gifted other friends firearms as a military retirement gift. Let's say you want to do some distance shooting and add a bolt-action rifle with a scope to the mix. Now you are half the national average at 4 and loving it...but you're also interested in all those "plastic" guns you see around like Glocks or M&Ps or XDs etc. Don't look now, but you are close to the perception of being dangerous with 5 guns. Yeah, but that's military people, you say.

What about people who are history buffs and love the old west? Single action Ruger Vaquero, Marlin 1894 lever action rifle, and a Stoeger coach gun puts you just shy of the national average and still equipped to have some fun & competitive Cowboy Action shooting. Plus 1 spare or backup and you are one your way to getting sideways glances from the media. Then someone comes along with a rare piece of history - a 1911 that dates back to WWII era manufacturing. There's #4. But you say there aren't that many people out there like that.

What if you are the son or daughter of a hunter and you grew up shooting with your family. You have one or two firearms of your own that were perhaps purchased for you. Then, one day, you choose to buy one of your choice - just for you. That's 3. Then, your father passes away and leaves you with his collection of 8 firearms...well you just jumped the national average overnight. Does that really happen, you ask? Yep.

What about that person who just wants a firearm for self defense only. A woman who wants to ensure she always has the upper hand when danger comes lurking. Maybe a man who thinks it's a good idea to have a firearm in the house to protect his family...just a good idea. Cool, both people will start with 1 and may stay there. But, according to national averages, that's the rare exception. Maybe they decide their spouse or significant other should be armed as well. That's 2, and if you enjoy the sport, watch out.

Bottom line is, it's very reasonable and normal for a person to own 4-10 firearms and with those firearms, thousands and thousands, maybe ten-thousand rounds of ammunition or more.

All of these categories of people are normal, every-day, law abiding citizens who purchase legally, are responsible owners, and shoot regularly. They mean no harm and have no malicious intent. Yet they own what the media or non-gun owners would consider a large number of firearms. Should we roll our eyes at them and ask questions assuming malicious intent? No! Why would we assume the worst in each other?

At the end of the day, it's the person's actions or influences we should be concerned about, not the tool or the quantity of tools.

Myth 4: You Can Only Transport To & From the Range

Disclaimer: I am not a legal expert. I'm a law abiding citizen who seeks to understand the law and obey it. What follows are my thoughts based on my personal research & understanding of the law. You are responsible for your own actions. Know the law and obey it.

Myth 4: "You can only transport your firearms to and from the range."

Another myth I've heard a lot, and this one I understand. With all the news we hear about firearms being banned here and there, and the unconstitutional practices in CA of neither allowing open nor concealed carry outside of the home (in the major population areas), it makes sense that we're confused. Some people think that if you can't carry (open or concealed) in public, then you probably can't carry anywhere.

As of 2012, with the introduction of Penal Code 26350, open carry in CA became illegal. Concealed carry has already been illegal unless the carrier has a CCW. However, many urban and major population areas in California, namely San Diego County, have unconstitutionally stopped issuing CCWs, thus effectively banning carry in public altogether.

For more information on carry laws, see here: http://www.shouselaw.com/open-carry.html

Here's the full law, specifically regarding open carry of unloaded firearms. The loaded firearm law is similar, but penalties are stronger:

"26350. (a) (1) A person is guilty of openly carrying an unloaded

handgun when that person carries upon his or her person an exposed
and unloaded handgun outside a vehicle while in or on any of the
following:
   (A) A public place or public street in an incorporated city or
city and county.
   (B) A public street in a prohibited area of an unincorporated area
of a county or city and county.
   (C) A public place in a prohibited area of a county or city and
county.
   (2) A person is guilty of openly carrying an unloaded handgun when
that person carries an exposed and unloaded handgun inside or on a
vehicle, whether or not on his or her person, while in or on any of
the following:
   (A) A public place or public street in an incorporated city or
city and county.
   (B) A public street in a prohibited area of an unincorporated area
of a county or city and county.
   (C) A public place in a prohibited area of a county or city and
county.
   (b) (1) Except as specified in paragraph (2), a violation of this
section is a misdemeanor.
   (2) A violation of subparagraph (A) of paragraph (1) of
subdivision (a) is punishable by imprisonment in a county jail not
exceeding one year, or by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars
($1,000), or by both that fine and imprisonment, if both of the
following conditions exist:
   (A) The handgun and unexpended ammunition capable of being
discharged from that handgun are in the immediate possession of that
person.
   (B) The person is not in lawful possession of that handgun.
   (c) (1) Nothing in this section shall preclude prosecution under
Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 29800) or Chapter 3 (commencing
with Section 29900) of Division 9, Section 8100 or 8103 of the
Welfare and Institutions Code, or any other law with a penalty
greater than is set forth in this section.
   (2) The provisions of this section are cumulative and shall not be
construed as restricting the application of any other law. However,
an act or omission punishable in different ways by different
provisions of law shall not be punished under more than one
provision.
   (d) Notwithstanding the fact that the term "an unloaded handgun"
is used in this section, each handgun shall constitute a distinct and
separate offense under this section."

Truth is, you can transport firearms from your private property to any place where it is legal to posses a firearm. The law cited above specifically defines banned carry in "public" places. The scope of this law does not include private property. Once you are on private property, it's up to the owner to define carry policies. Since open and concealed carry are banned in public, I cannot transport a firearm to the mall and carry it inside, unless of course the private business allows it (i.e. gun smith inside etc.). Check with the property owner first.

Think about it. If it's legal to open carry at your house, then it's legal at your neighbor's house (with their permission). Same is true of private property such as businesses. That's what gun stores and ranges allow you to walk around with unloaded firearms - because it's legal - not because the law exempts those places, but because they are private property and private property isn't within the scope of the carry law.

Here's a basic example. Let's say I want to carry a pistol over to my friend's house who lives 10 miles away. I retrieve the firearm from it's safe and legal place, verify it is unloaded and safe, pack it up in a locked container, unloaded, as required by law. I drive to my friend's house. Now it's up to him. If he's cool with it, I can open carry all I want...until it's time to go home, then I reverse the process.

Here's how the CA DOJ summarizes the law:

Pursuant to California Penal Code section 25610, a United States citizen over 18 years of age who is not prohibited from firearm possession, and who resides or is temporarily in California, may transport by motor vehicle any handgun provided it is unloaded and locked in the vehicle’s trunk or in a locked container. Furthermore, the handgun must be carried directly to or from any motor vehicle for any lawful purpose and, while being carried must be contained within a locked container.

Pursuant to California Penal Code section 16850, the term "locked container" means a secure container that is fully enclosed and locked by a padlock, key lock, combination lock, or similar locking device. This includes the trunk of a motor vehicle, but does not include the utility or glove compartment.

So there you have it. You can transport to any place for lawful purposes, as longs as you transport it according to the law governing transportation of firearms. Lawful purposes are many including ownership and possession on private property. Somewhat of a side note, but these carry laws do not restrict carry methods on your own property.

That's my understanding - do your own due diligence and learn the law before you act.

Myth 3: Transporting Firearms in CA

Disclaimer: you are responsible for knowing the law & abiding by it. The following represents my own thoughts, interpretation, and reflection of the law along with the summarization of my own research. This is not legal guidance, but rather intended to help you navigate toward the truth. It's up to you to know & abide by the law.

Myth Number 3: your firearm and your ammunition must both be locked in separate containers when transporting them.

Variation 1: you have to keep your ammunition and your firearm in separate parts of your car when transporting them. They can't both be in the trunk at the same time.

Variation 2: you can't carry loaded magazines

Variation 3: you must keep a cable lock on your firearm when transporting it.

Any way you look at it, these are more myths circulating the gun owners in California. I'm actually not sure where these come from, but I've heard them all. In fact, when I purchased my first firearm, the dealer told me I was required by law to lock it with the provided cable lock whenever I transported it - including from the store when I picked it up. They even damaged the pre-cut foam in my factory carrying case when they forced me to leave the slide open with the cable lock attached, with the firearm back in the case. I rightfully assumed this was the law (since that's what they told me), and was shocked when another gun store, allowed me to leave the store without installing the lock, and again when one of my standard ranges told me I didn't need to lock both the firearm and my range bag. That led me to research more on the subject.

I've actually been in debates with fellow gun owners about the ammunition transportation question. I had one friend tell me, "it's because they don't want you to be able to quickly load your firearm while you are driving around," when trying to justify his understanding that the law required separation from ammo & firearm in different containers. Well, driving a truck that has no trunk, made me worried that if this was the case, then I effectively couldn't transport my firearms & ammunition at the same time.

As I've mentioned in other posts. Don't just believe what you've heard from other people, including (sadly) those who sell you the firearm. Do your research. Read the laws. It's your responsibility.

Cutting to the chase, all of these are myths. Let's take a look at the law. Here's the California Department of Justice's website & entry regarding transportation: https://oag.ca.gov/firearms/travel

Here's what DOJ says regarding transporting firearms, and specifically pistols:

"Pursuant to California Penal Code section 25610, a United States citizen over 18 years of age who is not prohibited from firearm possession, and who resides or is temporarily in California, may transport by motor vehicle any handgun provided it is unloaded and locked in the vehicle’s trunk or in a locked container. Furthermore, the handgun must be carried directly to or from any motor vehicle for any lawful purpose and, while being carried must be contained within a locked container.

Pursuant to California Penal Code section 16850, the term "locked container" means a secure container that is fully enclosed and locked by a padlock, key lock, combination lock, or similar locking device. This includes the trunk of a motor vehicle, but does not include the utility or glove compartment."

A couple of key points. First, the handgun must be unloaded and locked in a locked container. Unloaded means no round in the chamber, and no loaded magazine inserted into the frame or related receiving compartment. In other words, no ammunition inside any part of the pistol. The container apparently can be a trunk, but is otherwise undefined (except that the glove compartment is an example of what a locked container is not). This can be a portable safe, a range bag, a carry case, a briefcase, a backpack...whatever, so long as it is locked. You'll also notice, the law does not specify the lock beyond some generic types including a "padlock, key lock, combination lock, or similar locking device."

So it's up to you.

Notice also that ammunition isn't even mentioned aside from the provision that the firearm must be unloaded. It doesn't say "unloaded in a locked container, separate from any ammunition or loaded magazines."

Searching for transporting loaded magazines comes back with nothing noteworthy from a legal perspective, which is by itself noteworthy.

So, based on my analysis, I believe it is perfectly legal to say...

Transport an unloaded pistol in a range bag where the bag is locked closed and where the bad pockets contain loaded magazines. That's just my interpretation.

Read the law. Know it. Obey it.

Firearms Myth 2: Hollow Point Bullets

DISCLAIMER: I am not a legal expert. You are responsible for knowing the law and abiding by it. What follows are my thoughts regarding my understanding of law based on my own research & interpretation. Do not use my words or thoughts alone as your basis for action. Research & know the law before you purchase or use a firearm.

Myth 2: Hollow point ammunition is illegal in California

Myth 2a: Hollow point ammunition is more dangerous that full metal jacket (round nose, flat nose etc.)

I've heard these often and just as often, these myths are expressed not so much in words as they are in the expression of the person who sees me in possession of hollow point ammunition.

In fact, when talking with some friends a few months ago about the ammunition I purchase and the differences between range & carry ammo, one friend was adamant that I was breaking the law by owning hollow point ammunition.

In another example, I showed a friend who was new to firearms ownership and was asking about ammunition choices, what a hollow point round looks like (I had one in my backpack). He just outed the question: "aren't those more dangerous than regular bullets?"

First of all, as always, if you have a question about CA gun laws, Google is your friend. So is the Cal Guns Foundation and their forums.

Second, when talking about firearms and what's more or less dangerous, remember - we're talking about firearms.

Third, before selecting any ammunition, be sure to read all of your firearm's owner manual including (but not limited to) ammunition use. Also check the barrel or slide of your firearm to make sure you have the right caliber.

Now, let's take a look at State law regarding hallow point bullets. Oh wait, there isn't any. That's right. There are no California Penal Codes that make owning, purchasing, or using hallow point ammunition a crime (within the context of protected self-defense and firearms laws of course). Now, I know I used bullets and ammunition interchangeably there...I know the difference and you get what I mean. But, for the sake of brevity, the bullet is the object that launches out of the case, whereas ammunition represents the bullet, case, primer, and powder together. Ok...moving on. My point is, it's not illegal at all.

However, the city of San Francisco, has banned purchasing of hollow point ammunition within the city limits, and an appeal by the NRA was not accepted by the US Supreme Court who would not hear the matter, effectively allowing local governments to ban the sale of goods, even those goods protected by the second amendment. This may lead to the confusion, but I think it actually stems from a miss-understanding perpetuated by the media & liberal politicians.

There is also the case that international laws governing war have banned the use of hollow point ammunition. Why? Well, because it is more lethal...I'll get to what that means in a sec. But on the flip side, it is much, much safer to use in urban settings where most issues of personal defense play out.

How is it both more lethal, and safer to use?

That has to do with ballistics, forensic science, and bullet design. You see, full metal jacket (FMJ) or any round nose or flat nose traditional bullets, penetrate objects, and they penetrate really well. Doors, windows, walls, cars etc. In fact, they penetrate so well, they often poke a hole through someone about the same shape and size of the bullet, and proceed to poke a hole through whatever was behind the person. They go right through objects like filing cabinets, car doors, or other barriers you may try to hide behind. According to science & research on this subject, most people survive a gunshot wound because the damage is limited and highly unlikely to disrupt a vital function of the body. If you can stop the bleeding, you'll likely survive. That's great news right! Yes, if you want to slow down your aggressor, or give them the opportunity to stop on their own. You see, also according to science, the thing that stops most people who have been shot, isn't the physical damage...it's psychological. That's why in so many real-world shootings, you see people continuing to function after being shot. There was a recent example near where I live of someone who was shot and didn't realize it for several hours.

The other issue with FMJ ammunition especially, is it is designed to fragment on entry. The intention is to create as much internal tissue disruption as possible and to prevent over penetration. The problem here is when bullets fail to expand, and even when they do, those little fragments can get lodged into bone, or pass through other non-lethal areas. It should cause any normal person to stop, but there's no guarantee that they will stop, and there's less guarantee that they will die. That's great news again right?

Both of these realities create significant issues however, when it comes to self protection and urban settings where violence is often based on rage or influenced by drugs & alcohol where normal  psychological processes are already disrupted by the aggressor. In war, we find many soldiers doing their job in their right state-of-mind. However, in urban settings, when lethal force is warranted (and legal), it's because you are facing down someone who intent on causing your serious bodily harm and/or death. They intend to murder you. They aren't in a sound state-of-mind. In war, you are also trying to fight man-to-man, not directly protecting young ones or other innocent bystanders. This is the problem with FMJ especially. That's normal ammunition that's round nosed and fully encased (you don't see lead).

Let's say you are in your house and an aggressor enters, passionate to steal whatever they can get their hands on, harming whomever gets in their way. If you fire an FMJ indoors, it's going to go through people and walls...and potentially people on the other side. Yes, even smaller calibers, and sometimes especially smaller calibers where the bullet is traveling really fast and the smaller diameter results in less resistance to material. You'll likely hit your target, and other unintended targets which could include the people you are trying to protect. Same is true let's say in a crowded mall or other urban setting. FMJs over penetrate.

The other problem is the issue of "stopping power." I'm not going to get into the religious caliber debate on that one. Suffice it to say, the "experts" who do science on this day in and day out agree that "stopping power" from a caliber perspective is a myth - it's about what the bullet disrupts, no matter the size. Don't believe me, then ask yourself why teams like the US Navy Seals have chosen the 9mm Glock 19 as their official sidearm. Or ask yourself why the FBI ammunition protocols are met by 9mm Hornady Critical Duty ammunition. It's just a fact, now let's move on. Remember also that what stops most people is the realization that they have been shot and the fear of what will happen next. Someone in the field of war who is shot, is more likely to stop. They have that realization. Someone who is under the influence of passion or substance, will likely not pause to think rationally, and fear may be completely suppressed by rage. In a self-defense situation, you are protecting your life and/or those of innocent people around you from an immediate threat. You need to stop it. Now.

Enter hallow points. They were designed to expand on impact, creating not only larger wound disruption and potential for vital process interruption, but also causing massive resistance which helps to stop them quickly. Thus over-penetration is unlikely with a hallow point bullet, while vital process disruption is more likely. The chances of stopping the aggressor regardless of their mental state is increased, and you won't likely be shooting through walls or through people given the expansion design of the bullet. Now, there are always variables and nuances, but these are general truths.

There's also the factor of physics and transfer of energy. When an object passed through another, more energy is retained by the object in motion, and the stationary object "feels" less impact. However, when the stationary object absorbs all of the energy from the object in motion, the impact is much more severe. I've never been shot, but it's easy to imagine that the impact of a hollow point and my body absorbing all of that energy from that projectile moving at over 1,000 feet-per-second...is going to give me quite the shock. This translates again to that psychological element of being shot. The recipient is going to be given greater reason to pause.

San Francisco's ban may help reduce the likelihood of death from gunshots, and may offer the aggressors among us an opportunity to reflect on their life during their moment of rage, but they are putting those of us on the defensive side at greater risk. Much greater risk. The law protects the malicious while creating greater risk for the innocent.

But to address the myth - hallow point bullets are not illegal. In fact, they are safer.

Firearms Myth 1: CA Roster vs. Existing Ownership

I hear this myth often, including recently when I was at a local gun shop (a popular chain), purchasing some...stuff. The myth is that you can't own a firearm in California that's not on the roster, or that firearms not on the roster are "illegal."

There's a similar myth, which is related, in which people believe one person can give or sell a firearm to another person (private party transfer) without going through the normal firearms sale process. For those of us in CA, we know that sales process includes unconstitutional background checks & other limitations. In fact, many in the media and many Democrat politicians claim these private party transfers are "loopholes" and often refer to them as "gun show loopholes," implying anyone can go to a gun show and purchase any firearm without invoking the standard laws that govern firearm purchasing in the state. Through this failed logic (and blatant lying), anti-gunners claim anyone can purchase any firearm if they do so through a private party transfer.

So, two points to cover: 1) can you own a firearm that isn't on the CA roster 2) can you sell or transfer a firearm not on the roster.

Or put in another way: 1) are committing a crime if you own a firearm that's not on the CA roster 2) can you use private party transfers to obtain firearms that aren't on the CA roster?

Let's start with the roster & ownership confusion.

Here's a quote from the California Department of Justice website (http://certguns.doj.ca.gov/) that describes the roster:

"Effective January 1, 2001, no handgun may be manufactured within California, imported into California for sale, lent, given, kept for sale, or offered/exposed for sale unless that handgun model has passed firing, safety, and drop tests and is certified for sale in California by the Department of Justice. Private party transfers, curio/relic handguns, certain single-action revolvers, and pawn/consignment returns are exempt from this requirement."

Firearms that have been certified are documented by the roster. To know if the firearm in question is "certified for sale in California," you can search by manufacturer on that same website. Now, this quote from DOJ does add to the confusion. CA gun laws have become so complicated, it can be difficult to discern whether or not you are committing a crime or not. In this case, the CA DOJ says "private party transfers...are exempt from this requirement." That's sort of true. Well...it's a partial truth. There are some exemptions with regard to private party transfers, but they are very specific circumstances (i.e. transfers to immediate family members or domestic partners, plus some exemptions for antiques).

But the general ownership question seems pretty straight-forward right? Can't sell it or buy it if CA hasn't approved it. That means dealers can't import for sale, and private parties can't purchase, from anyone. Sales of firearms in CA are governed by laws that require the transaction be managed by an FFL. The firearms transfer process by the FFL then invokes the same requirements from a sales perspective, and the FFL can't sell you a firearm that's not approved by the state. But if you already own it, that action precedes the law because you aren't purchasing it.

In other words, if it was legal to purchase the firearm when you did (i.e. before the roster or while it was on the roster), then it is still legal to own it. You see the roster (unconstitutionally) limits what can or can't be sold. That by nature (unconstitutionally) restricts future ownership, but does not affect current ownership.

Ok, now let's focus on transfers. CA Penal Code 27545 requires any transfer of a firearm between one party and another (with some exceptions for immediate family members), must be managed by an FFL, thus invoking normal firearm transfer requirements - including the invocation of the CA roster of certified firearms. In fact, Penal Code 27545 defines private party transfers a crime unless one party is an FFL:

"Where neither party to the transaction holds a dealer’s license issued pursuant to Sections 26700 to 26915, inclusive, the parties to the transaction shall complete the sale, loan, or transfer of that firearm through a licensed firearms dealer pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 28050)"

Ok, so if you don't have a license, you have to use a dealer. Well, can't the dealer just witness the transfer? Nope. Invoking the dealer, invokes the Dealer Record Of Sale process or DROS which means the sale will be fully documented, you have to provide proof of identity and residency. You'll be subjected to a background check, and the normal (unconstitutional) 10 day waiting period. When the dealer enters the DROS information, they also have to enter the firearm make and model information - which invokes the (unconstitutional) CA roster. The process can only move forward if all the legal requirements are met.

See here: https://oag.ca.gov/firearms/pubfaqs#3

So myth 1 busted: there is no law banning you from owning a firearm not on the CA roster, unless the firearm is banned by another law (i.e. the unconstitutional assault weapons ban). You can't purchase one that's not on the CA roster, but you can own it. So, how would you own one that you can't purchase? Simple; you purchased it before it was banned or your parent, spouse, or child did and they transferred it to you.

Now myth 2 busted: you can't transfer a firearm that isn't on the roster...unless the recipient is an immediate family member defined as husband or wife or child or parent.

Alright, now that we know the law, it's story time. Sadly though, this is a true story.

Here's how the perpetuation of these myths played out recently right in front of me. I was in the process of completing a transaction at a local sporting goods store (and a CA chain), when the store clerk paused our engagement to answer the phone. After a few words were exchanged, they called for a store manager, and when he arrived, the clerk explained the nature of the call.

She said, "the caller has some questions about FFL transfers and fees."

The manager picked up the phone and briefly confirmed that they do perform FFL transfers for a fee, then asked about the firearm the caller wanted to transfer. The store manager made a "pfft" sound and with a annoyed look on his face said into the phone, "uh, those aren't on the roster, which means they are illegal." After a few more grunts, he ended the call saying, "if it's not on the roster, it's illegal to own, so I can't help you transfer it." He stood there shaking his head, still clearly annoyed.

This all went down right in front of me, maybe two feet away, so I asked, "what were they trying to transfer?" According to the law we just reviewed, the only thing you can't own are banned firearms (which have little to do with the roster). Not on the roster, does not make it illegal to own remember?

The manager said, "oh an old Colt that isn't legal anymore." He didn't clarify. Having recently read that Colt 1911s had been dropped from the CA roster, I assumed that maybe what the caller was referring to was a private party transfer of a non-roster pistol. So I said, "oh, I read that 1911s were being dropped from the roster." The manager corrected me. He said, "oh no, not a 1911, the guy was trying to transfer a Colt Python, but they aren't on the roster. We can't transfer illegal guns." Then he walked away making some other remark under his breath, further expressing his annoyance.

I was stunned. Now, there is a nuance here. As we outlined above, it is illegal to purchase or transfer a firearm that isn't on the California roster of approved firearms, and since this caller was trying to transfer it, that invokes the CA roster and the recipient of the transfer has to go through the normal purchase process. However, there's a difference between selling and owning and I clearly remember the store manager saying "it's not legal to own" and "illegal gun(s)." As long as the firearm isn't on a banned list, even if it's on the roster and can't be purchased today, it's perfectly legal to own it.

Now, part of what he told the caller is true - he can't help him transfer a firearm that's not on the roster. But by declaring the firearm "illegal" and by saying you can't own it, he's perpetuating a myth.

I was shocked this store manager said what he did in the way that he did. He may have erred in what he said, but the message he conveyed to the caller and repeated to me was "if it's not on the roster, you can't own it." That is not true at all.

I was also shocked by the way he treated the caller and how annoyed he was. Now, in his defense, I wasn't on the call so I don't know what the caller said. However, if I'm a store manager of a shop that sells lots and lots and lots of firearms, I'm going to take the time to be very intentional in my word selection, and I'm going to use every opportunity to help educate the public including my potential customers.

I guess this is a story about poor service at a local gun shop, but it serves to illustrate the confusion and how it's being perpetuated - even by allegedly pro-gun people.

Learn the law. It's your responsibility.