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Wisdom based on 25 years carrying the Mossberg 590
When I joined the Aberdeen Police Department in Harford County, Maryland, in May of 1998, policing was very different—officers, tactics, and tools have all evolved since then. As a gun enthusiast, I was thrilled to learn that our issued handgun was the Glock 19, while detectives carried the Glock 26. Even better, we were allowed…
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Self-Defense Insurance for Gun Owners – you need it
You wouldn’t dream of driving your car without insurance, right? Then why would you carry a firearm without it? A few years ago, while attending Bike Week in Ocean City, Maryland, with my security team from Freedom Biker Church York, PA, I was introduced to the United States Concealed Carry Association (USCCA). They provide self-defense…
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Revolutionizing Edged Weapon Defense for Law Enforcement
In February 2000, I was involved in a fatal police-involved shooting, which forced me to take a hard look at my training. At the time, I was a member of the SWAT team—though I was working patrol the night of the shooting—and had already completed two of what would eventually be five firearms instructor courses.…
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The Risks of Automatic Knives in Self-Protection
The first reason I don’t recommend assisted-opening or automatic knives for personal protection comes from an understanding of firearms, rather than edged weapons. Those who carry a pistol for self-defense typically give it careful consideration. They clean their weapon regularly and make sure there’s a round in the chamber. However, this attention to detail is…
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Utilizing Walls for Stability in Confrontations
We live in a world full of vertical surfaces—walls, vehicles, and other structures. In many situations, you’ll likely find yourself within a few feet of one. Understanding how to use these surfaces effectively can improve your stability and provide powerful combative options. Much has been written about ground fighting, but the reality is that you’re…
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Home Defense: The Overlooked Details
We all have a mental picture of how a home defense scenario might unfold. There are only three environments where defense situations occur: home, transit, and other locations. At home, we expect to sleep peacefully, feeling safe and secure with our families. Ideally, we have a defense strategy tailored to our environment and needs. However,…
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Review of Streamlight Wedge XT: Slim, Powerful, Reliable
The Streamlight Wedge XT is a rechargeable tactical flashlight designed with everyday carry in mind. Unlike traditional round flashlights that can be awkward in pockets, the Wedge XT’s slim, flat profile resembles an OTF (Out-The-Front) automatic knife, making it both comfortable and practical to carry. It charges fully in six hours via the included USB…
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Pepper Spray: Overrated for Self-Defense
Pepper spray is probably the most common self-defense tool people carry, yet it’s surprisingly difficult to find news stories or YouTube videos of it being successfully used in self-defense. Ironically, it’s easier to find instances where criminals use it as a weapon during robberies to avoid firearm-related charges. In my opinion, people put way too…
Mindset-Training-Tools
Mindset-Training-Tools
