This article is being wrote after a few conversation's with some new and old firearm owners, this last weekend. At a banquet I attended we discussed our favorite topic "firearms". This lead to us discussing some thing's to do after purchasing a firearm. We was having a nice conversation and I kept hearing them talk of having some issues. I finally asked them, "what did you do when you picked up the pistol?". They laughed and said they went and shot it. I then said, "no, from picking it up at the store, to shooting the first round, what did you do?". They had quizzical look's on their face, and looked at each other, then one of them said, "I read the owner's manual". I said that is good, and said "anyone or anything else?" There was silence, then they started asking me what I did and how. Which lead me to offering advice and they all said "I never thought of that" and it ended with a few saying I should write an article on it. Which now bring's us to the point we are at. I will keep this short as possible as much of it is common sense, but I want to share with you what I do and have done (and lessons I learned the hard way) for bringing a firearm home and before putting first round through it. In a later article I will likely describe what I do and found that is best on a defensive pistol being deemed confident reliable. But for now, lets look at some do's, that will save you issues.
You purchased your firearm and are picking it up and are excited (as well as you should be and we all are). You go back, they have it ready for you, some final paperwork and they walk you out the door with it (which is mandated by policy). You shake hands and off you go. Well, let me give you a huge tip, do not do that. You spend your valuable money and time on a firearm so why not savor it. A quality firearm store, will take the firearm you purchased and open it and show you the contents. Yes it is pretty and you are excited, but as much time as you took to pick the right one out, take a little time and inspect it. I will pick up the firearm and handle it (keep in mind, many times the one you have is not the "show" model), I want to make sure there is no issues with it, that it functions the same way. I actually picked up a firearm and handles it to notice that it did not have the safety I wanted (as some models come either way), I have picked one up and there was a burr under the slide which caused it to hang up. So you want to make sure it is the pistol you bought.
Next, I will go through all the contents. I will ensure that the magazines that it comes with are correct for the pistol (as many come in different calibers). I will insert the magazines into the firearm and ensure that they fit as they should and drop as they should (which let's me inspect the magazine release as well). I will also, inspect and check the follower of the magazine and the spring tension. There has been a few times, when the manufacturer shipped wrong magazine in the case. I will ensure that the firearm comes with all contents it should be with it. I will ensure that is has an owner's manual, which it should have. You want make sure you are getting what you are paying for. I even inspect the case, one time the case had a nice deep scratch on it, I complained and said wanted a refund, they upgraded me to a nice pelican case for free. Remember, like a car, until you take it off the lot, the transaction is not done.
Now that we have accepted the item, we take it home. Once at home, what do you do next? Your correct answer should be, READ THE OWNERS MANUAL. Yes, I know that they can be boring, but the information in there can give you important information, such as caliber, proper cleaning and field stripping technique. Not following the owner's manual, can void your warranty, so follow it. If you are new to a particular firearm, I strongly recommend reading it twice. The next thing it to ensure you keep it with the firearm, in case later on need a reference or assistance, do not just throw it away. I am quite confident in my ability with many firearms, but I still read through the owners manual. Since you are reading it, once done take an ink pen and write down on the manual the date you purchased it, I even keep the receipt with it. Since, you have the ink pen, why not fill out the warranty card, or go online and activate your warranty. You want to do this so the manufacturer knows when you purchased the model number in case of recall. Then they will contact you (usually email) if there is any issue. Once I have read and understand the owners manual, I do another function check, to ensure that it all works (understand that some do not recommend dry firing rimfire caliber, why I always us a dummy round snapcap). I will especially ensure that all the safeties work properly.
Now that you are done with that, you want to sit at a table, with a towel or cloth down and disassemble the firearm according to the owners manual. You want to become intimate with it. Think about this, it is brand new, you will likely be the only one to be able to see the condition it is in now. Why? Because later if an issue arises and an instructor or gunsmith will ask "was it like this before?" They hate hearing "I don't know". You want to inspect and/or look at each part and understand how it works. Again, you want to ensure you know and/or refer to the owners manual, because doing somethings in the state it is in at this point could damage it.
Now that we have it apart, Why not clean it? Many people think it is ready to go out of the box, this is so not true. Manufacturers do one of two things. They will either have storage lube on it (to prevent rust as they do not know how long it will sit), or they will have them dry (no lube). In either case, you want to sit down and clean it. There may be shipping residue as well. So, just clean the pistol as you was taught or according to the owners manual. Almost all firearms are shot before they leave the company, so there may be residue there too. During one of these inspection/cleanings, I found that the maker left a plastic "plug" in the barrel, that is a good find before any ammunition went down the pipe. Which of course you should have no ammunition around when cleaning. Once you are done inspecting/cleaning you want to do a function test again, one of the reason's I do not want ammunition around. For the function test, I want to make sure it works as it did, if not I want to identify the issue.
After I am done with this, I will then use my dummy rounds, and I will do some dryfire practice with the firearm. I want to again become very familiar with it and how it functions. I get to check the extractor and how it ejects. How it feeds and cycles, as well as, the trigger press. If I am going to use any accessory I will try it now, such as a holster. I will cycle not one but all the magazines (you did buy a spare right?). This allows me to become comfortable with the pistol and any issues before I but live ammunition in it.
At this point we should be confident in how the firearm works and functions. We now know, that it is lubricated properly and ready to go to the range for live fire (I will go over how I confident check a pistol in another article). Keep in mind that many firearm makers recommend at a minimum 200-500 rounds of proper ammunition to get it "broke in".
Tuesday, March 29, 2016
Friday, March 18, 2016
Well Rounded Armed Citizen
No I am not talking about the citizen who has attended too many buffet (because I would fall into that category), lol. I am going to discuss about the well prepared armed citizen. I often get asked what training a person needs and/or where do I start. I am going to step out of an Instructor role in writing this article. I am going to put the training in perspective from the position of a law abiding citizen who is starting from scratch and/or a Veteran. I am going to discuss the training that in my view as an experienced conceal carrying citizen, whom has had the misfortune of being in some situations. This article will not be the end all, but give people a simple and reasonable guide to get them to be well prepared, for the lifestyle of an Armed citizen.
Where to Start?
First, do not go out and buy a pistol just yet!!!!! I see far too many people who do this, then come to realize that after they take training, they have selected and spent their hard earned money on a pistol that is not suited for them. Secondly, I strongly recommend to read first. There are some quality books out their for the Armed citizen, to read and begin to understand the lifestyle. By reading a few of the below listed books or articles, this will help you get the most out of the training you are going to take. The following is recommended:
The State- Concealed Carry Act, at a minimum go to "http://www.handgunlaw.us/", and get up to speed for you state.
Massad Ayoob books and articles. Mas (as he likes to be called by students) is the world expert in use of force. His books "In the gravest Extreme" and Deadly Force is a minimum read. Everything he writes, is a gem for the armed citizen.
Andrew Branca book "the laws of self defense" is another great read.
Tom Givens-book "fighting smarter" is a great overall encompassing book.
John Farnham- his book "the Farnham method of defensive handgunning" is a good read.
Col. Jeff Cooper- this gentleman is the Grandfather of the defensive pistol, his book "Principles of personal defense" is as good now as when it first came out.
By reading the state's Concealed Carry Act, and one of the other books or articles the person will gain more out of the training, and be able to ask the Certified Instructor the questions that will crop up later.
Training- I highly recommend that you research your potential instructor. You want to find the best one to fit your needs. Call or email the instructor and ask what their credentials are and any questions you many have. A quality Instructor has no issue telling you their credentials. Also, are they willing to answer questions now? Some of the questions will need to be addressed in training, but if an instructor will not take the time now, will they be there for you afterward.
If nothing else, the citizen will need some basic knowledge and training to begin down the correct path. This is also a great refresher for Veterans, as the craft of the defensive pistol, is not covered in detail as the rifle in military service.
Basic Pistol course- This course will give the person, all the necassary knowledge to understand the following:
Safety, parts of a pistol (semi-automatic and revolver), how ammunition works and handle issues, proper grip, proper stance, proper aiming technique. This course is a good foundation for the citizen and a great refresher for the veteran. You want to ask if this is a certified course, by what entity or organization? Will they be willing to rent or provide firearms and/or ammunition? What will you be able to do after completion of this class? What will it count for? What are they willing to offer or support after the class is over?
Once your basic class is completed, you want to go to a range and SHOOT! You want to begin to master the skills you learned. Shooting is a perishable skill, so go and shoot. Many instructors will take the time afterward to coach you. One other option, which should be covered in Basic pistol class, is dryfire practice at home.
Now that you have done some shooting and have a grasp of fundamentals of marksmanship, you are ready for next class.
NRA Personal Protection In the Home- this class is designed as the next building block for the citizen. This class is a good first personal protection class, that deals with defense. You will learn about situational awareness, defensive marksmanship, use of cover and concealment, as well as, shooting around obstacles. When you consider half are time is spent at home, good education.
Intermediate pistol course- either after the "in the home" course or in lieu of it. An intermediate pistol course (which many instructors offer), polishes up the fundamentals that you have learned. It will then ingrain in you, how to effectively clear malfunctions, teach you drills to perfect your shooting ability. Likely, the most important part of this type of course is the elimination of training scars that are developed. This is usually a great transition course between fundamental marksmanship and defensive marksmanship.
Concealed carry Class- At this point you should posses the skill's and knowledge need to properly defend yourself. This class usually last from 4-8 hours. This is usually mandated by the state to obtain your license to carry a loaded pistol in public. This class should cover all the applicable laws of the state, use of force, interaction with law enforcement, and how to draw from concealed (a quality course will not just teach you this, but provide practice time) This will give you the minimal information needed that is mandated by the state.
Okay, now you have some skill's, have some knowledge and have obtained a concealed carry license. The worst thing that you can do, is STOP, at this point. The old saying of "know enough to be dangerous" is very applicable here. You posses some basic life saving skills that in the right situation can save you life. As many of us know, situations are rarely right and ideal. So then what to do?
NRA Personal Protection Outside the Home- This course was specifically designed by the NRA to give conceal carry holders, exclusive training in drawing and firing from concealed. This course has a basic level-learning the fine art of drawing from concealed, the finer point's engagement, and awareness. To the Advanced level- which refines the drawing and shooting skills, from moving, obstacles, from a chair. Usually the Advanced part is half to 3/4 of the day on range drawing and shooting.
Low Light Course- When you consider that 80% of all engagements happen in low light conditions, having the skill set to defend in the situation is critical. In this course students will learn about and added asset tool, the defensive flashlight, and the proper techniques for using them. You just don't shine a light and shoot, there is certain ways to make it beneficial and keep you from being a target.
Advanced Course- This comes in all kinds of different levels and intensity, as well as, price. For the most part, the student will master how to shoot on the move. Shoot from laying positions and many scenario drills are used. You really need to research to find if the course is right for you. Many are military and/or Law Enforcement driven, which is fun, but lacks practical application for the armed citizen.
Criminal behavior- This course is few and far between anymore. We preach to use situation awareness, but do we teach people what to look for? In this 4-8 hour class, the instructor breaks down the criminal pattern's and behavior that is always present. This course is usually followed by with role playing and defensive shooting.
Where to Start?
First, do not go out and buy a pistol just yet!!!!! I see far too many people who do this, then come to realize that after they take training, they have selected and spent their hard earned money on a pistol that is not suited for them. Secondly, I strongly recommend to read first. There are some quality books out their for the Armed citizen, to read and begin to understand the lifestyle. By reading a few of the below listed books or articles, this will help you get the most out of the training you are going to take. The following is recommended:
The State- Concealed Carry Act, at a minimum go to "http://www.handgunlaw.us/", and get up to speed for you state.
Massad Ayoob books and articles. Mas (as he likes to be called by students) is the world expert in use of force. His books "In the gravest Extreme" and Deadly Force is a minimum read. Everything he writes, is a gem for the armed citizen.
Andrew Branca book "the laws of self defense" is another great read.
Tom Givens-book "fighting smarter" is a great overall encompassing book.
John Farnham- his book "the Farnham method of defensive handgunning" is a good read.
Col. Jeff Cooper- this gentleman is the Grandfather of the defensive pistol, his book "Principles of personal defense" is as good now as when it first came out.
By reading the state's Concealed Carry Act, and one of the other books or articles the person will gain more out of the training, and be able to ask the Certified Instructor the questions that will crop up later.
Training- I highly recommend that you research your potential instructor. You want to find the best one to fit your needs. Call or email the instructor and ask what their credentials are and any questions you many have. A quality Instructor has no issue telling you their credentials. Also, are they willing to answer questions now? Some of the questions will need to be addressed in training, but if an instructor will not take the time now, will they be there for you afterward.
If nothing else, the citizen will need some basic knowledge and training to begin down the correct path. This is also a great refresher for Veterans, as the craft of the defensive pistol, is not covered in detail as the rifle in military service.
Basic Pistol course- This course will give the person, all the necassary knowledge to understand the following:
Safety, parts of a pistol (semi-automatic and revolver), how ammunition works and handle issues, proper grip, proper stance, proper aiming technique. This course is a good foundation for the citizen and a great refresher for the veteran. You want to ask if this is a certified course, by what entity or organization? Will they be willing to rent or provide firearms and/or ammunition? What will you be able to do after completion of this class? What will it count for? What are they willing to offer or support after the class is over?
Once your basic class is completed, you want to go to a range and SHOOT! You want to begin to master the skills you learned. Shooting is a perishable skill, so go and shoot. Many instructors will take the time afterward to coach you. One other option, which should be covered in Basic pistol class, is dryfire practice at home.
Now that you have done some shooting and have a grasp of fundamentals of marksmanship, you are ready for next class.
NRA Personal Protection In the Home- this class is designed as the next building block for the citizen. This class is a good first personal protection class, that deals with defense. You will learn about situational awareness, defensive marksmanship, use of cover and concealment, as well as, shooting around obstacles. When you consider half are time is spent at home, good education.
Intermediate pistol course- either after the "in the home" course or in lieu of it. An intermediate pistol course (which many instructors offer), polishes up the fundamentals that you have learned. It will then ingrain in you, how to effectively clear malfunctions, teach you drills to perfect your shooting ability. Likely, the most important part of this type of course is the elimination of training scars that are developed. This is usually a great transition course between fundamental marksmanship and defensive marksmanship.
Concealed carry Class- At this point you should posses the skill's and knowledge need to properly defend yourself. This class usually last from 4-8 hours. This is usually mandated by the state to obtain your license to carry a loaded pistol in public. This class should cover all the applicable laws of the state, use of force, interaction with law enforcement, and how to draw from concealed (a quality course will not just teach you this, but provide practice time) This will give you the minimal information needed that is mandated by the state.
Okay, now you have some skill's, have some knowledge and have obtained a concealed carry license. The worst thing that you can do, is STOP, at this point. The old saying of "know enough to be dangerous" is very applicable here. You posses some basic life saving skills that in the right situation can save you life. As many of us know, situations are rarely right and ideal. So then what to do?
NRA Personal Protection Outside the Home- This course was specifically designed by the NRA to give conceal carry holders, exclusive training in drawing and firing from concealed. This course has a basic level-learning the fine art of drawing from concealed, the finer point's engagement, and awareness. To the Advanced level- which refines the drawing and shooting skills, from moving, obstacles, from a chair. Usually the Advanced part is half to 3/4 of the day on range drawing and shooting.
Low Light Course- When you consider that 80% of all engagements happen in low light conditions, having the skill set to defend in the situation is critical. In this course students will learn about and added asset tool, the defensive flashlight, and the proper techniques for using them. You just don't shine a light and shoot, there is certain ways to make it beneficial and keep you from being a target.
Advanced Course- This comes in all kinds of different levels and intensity, as well as, price. For the most part, the student will master how to shoot on the move. Shoot from laying positions and many scenario drills are used. You really need to research to find if the course is right for you. Many are military and/or Law Enforcement driven, which is fun, but lacks practical application for the armed citizen.
Criminal behavior- This course is few and far between anymore. We preach to use situation awareness, but do we teach people what to look for? In this 4-8 hour class, the instructor breaks down the criminal pattern's and behavior that is always present. This course is usually followed by with role playing and defensive shooting.
Thursday, March 10, 2016
Greatest Defensive Tool- The Mind
A great many people have received training and/or got their concealed carry license, Kudos. I often am asked by CCL holder's, citizens seeking training and experienced people a few common questions, such as: "What is the best carry caliber?", "Which firearm is best to carry?", "Which ammunition if the best for defense?", "If this happens, what would you do?", "When should you do this?". There is so many more questions, the answer to many of these question's comes down to two things, One is take more training and become more educated on the topics that must be mastered for Concealed Carry citizen. The second revolves around the purpose of this article, mindset.
As I have addressed in a few previous articles there is a lot to concealed carry than just getting basic training (which overall training will be covered in another article) and getting license. A great many who have attended are classes are amazed at the vast amount of information, and this is just stepping into the threshold of the many rooms of the manor about the lifestyle. The most important aspect in my humble opinion on personal protection is without a doubt MINDSET. What is mindset, according to the dictionary, it is defined as "the ideas and attitudes with which a person approaches a situation, especially when these are seen as being difficult to alter". There is a vast difference in mindset's in our lives. The one I am addressing is what a Defensive Mindset.
A Defensive Mindset is made up of many small pockets of thought and processing. In essence looking at the world in a different light. One aspect, which I covered in previous article, is Situation Awareness. The other aspect's that come into the Defensive Mindset is broken down as such: Tactical planning, Tactical thought, Plan of action, Line of Action, Engagement Action, and Will of survival. You might hear or read these under different "light" but the essence is the same. A great many people often refer to what I am discussing as "Warrior Mindset". I am purposely avoiding this, as Warrior's of the military are trained both consciously and sub-consciously to perform the action they are trained to carry out when deployed. The rules of engagement and Laws are totally different for civilians, as well as, the time and lifestyle. Let's look at the pockets of thought.
Situation Awareness- as I have stated, this was covered in a previous article, so I will only say this, one must be living in "yellow" to have time and distance on their side.
Tactical Planning- This can be a general or detailed plan that is assembled by yourself for the place you are in. In essence you are aware of what "may" happen, and are starting to form a plan in case it does transpire. It can be as simple as if this happens, I will move to the exit or get under table. To more detail thought of sitting down at home and creating a detailed plan of defense if this happens or that, this usually involves a notebook and deep thought.
Tactical Thought- This differ's from planning, as it is the application of situation awareness and tactical planning. You have thought about it and now that the situation is developing you begin to evolve the plan to the situation which is transpiring. This is a continuous flexible process. Example would be, if this is going to happen I can do this and/or that. This is weighing the options you have at your disposal.
Plan of Action- This is the actual plan that you have decided upon for the situation, taking into account all the variables. If the person does this, I am going to get my family out, if the person does this I will have to shield my family are examples of how it changes. You in essence are coming up with solid plans. Notice it was plural, you want plan A-z if you can. The last resort is to get your firearm, however, depending on the dynamics of the situation that may be the action.
Line of Action- This is a very important part a great many people don't understand and/or instructors fail to teach. You must establish a "RED LINE" for each action taken for the situation. This is the cue to set you into the motion of your plan. Once this threshold is crossed this is the trigger that will commit the plan into action. Realize that once the plan goes into action, that it still evolves, until Engagement. In other's words just because you pull your pistol does not necessarily mean you have to shoot. Examples are: If that person moves through the door I do this ...., or if the person slips their hand inside jacket I am doing this ....
Engagement Action- This refer's more to the actual situation of going for and/or pulling the pistol or getting into the fight. This is the last result and you have used all the "tactics" you can to avoid this. Now the line of action has been crossed, you get to the point of going for pistol, the pistol has been brought out. This is the millisecond of decision, of actual shooting. A bullet can never be called back or sorry doesn't cut it. I believe and teach this, whenever you draw your pistol you have full intention and mindset to use it, but we still hope that it will not be necessary. You must understand that fighting is the final and last step in the negotiation process. Once this action is taken, it does not reverse until the situation has evolved into a safe situation for you or those under the mantel of your care. It could be the person fled, or you have reached a safe area among others.
Will of survival- This is far underestimated and sometimes overlooked. This is often refereed to the will to live. Once you are engaged in an actual fight for survival, you must commit and win, understanding when the fight has stopped so do you. But as long as you are in a life threatening situation, you fight with all your will and might. No matter what you have, even if you run out of ammunition, all you have is a water bottle, keep fighting. Remember it is not the tiger in the fight, but the fight in the tiger. This is a very powerful part of the mindset. This is what has saved human being's from prehistoric animals, combat, cancer and many other against all odds victories. You fight till it has ended or you win.
This mindset takes some time to get into the groove of. Like all things you need to start using it so it becomes natural. As will all things around the lifestyle of concealed carry, this needs to be understood and implemented. This article goes with the few others I wrote, which discusses situation awareness, preparing armed citizen mindset, check them out to understand it to the fullest. In the future, I will write and article that will deal with the last part of the mindset, Mind after engagement. The article will give some insight into a few people who has been in life threatening situations. It will go into what and how they had to deal with the rest of their lives.
Feel free to leave a comment or question.
Todd Mendenhall
As I have addressed in a few previous articles there is a lot to concealed carry than just getting basic training (which overall training will be covered in another article) and getting license. A great many who have attended are classes are amazed at the vast amount of information, and this is just stepping into the threshold of the many rooms of the manor about the lifestyle. The most important aspect in my humble opinion on personal protection is without a doubt MINDSET. What is mindset, according to the dictionary, it is defined as "the ideas and attitudes with which a person approaches a situation, especially when these are seen as being difficult to alter". There is a vast difference in mindset's in our lives. The one I am addressing is what a Defensive Mindset.
A Defensive Mindset is made up of many small pockets of thought and processing. In essence looking at the world in a different light. One aspect, which I covered in previous article, is Situation Awareness. The other aspect's that come into the Defensive Mindset is broken down as such: Tactical planning, Tactical thought, Plan of action, Line of Action, Engagement Action, and Will of survival. You might hear or read these under different "light" but the essence is the same. A great many people often refer to what I am discussing as "Warrior Mindset". I am purposely avoiding this, as Warrior's of the military are trained both consciously and sub-consciously to perform the action they are trained to carry out when deployed. The rules of engagement and Laws are totally different for civilians, as well as, the time and lifestyle. Let's look at the pockets of thought.
Situation Awareness- as I have stated, this was covered in a previous article, so I will only say this, one must be living in "yellow" to have time and distance on their side.
Tactical Planning- This can be a general or detailed plan that is assembled by yourself for the place you are in. In essence you are aware of what "may" happen, and are starting to form a plan in case it does transpire. It can be as simple as if this happens, I will move to the exit or get under table. To more detail thought of sitting down at home and creating a detailed plan of defense if this happens or that, this usually involves a notebook and deep thought.
Tactical Thought- This differ's from planning, as it is the application of situation awareness and tactical planning. You have thought about it and now that the situation is developing you begin to evolve the plan to the situation which is transpiring. This is a continuous flexible process. Example would be, if this is going to happen I can do this and/or that. This is weighing the options you have at your disposal.
Plan of Action- This is the actual plan that you have decided upon for the situation, taking into account all the variables. If the person does this, I am going to get my family out, if the person does this I will have to shield my family are examples of how it changes. You in essence are coming up with solid plans. Notice it was plural, you want plan A-z if you can. The last resort is to get your firearm, however, depending on the dynamics of the situation that may be the action.
Line of Action- This is a very important part a great many people don't understand and/or instructors fail to teach. You must establish a "RED LINE" for each action taken for the situation. This is the cue to set you into the motion of your plan. Once this threshold is crossed this is the trigger that will commit the plan into action. Realize that once the plan goes into action, that it still evolves, until Engagement. In other's words just because you pull your pistol does not necessarily mean you have to shoot. Examples are: If that person moves through the door I do this ...., or if the person slips their hand inside jacket I am doing this ....
Engagement Action- This refer's more to the actual situation of going for and/or pulling the pistol or getting into the fight. This is the last result and you have used all the "tactics" you can to avoid this. Now the line of action has been crossed, you get to the point of going for pistol, the pistol has been brought out. This is the millisecond of decision, of actual shooting. A bullet can never be called back or sorry doesn't cut it. I believe and teach this, whenever you draw your pistol you have full intention and mindset to use it, but we still hope that it will not be necessary. You must understand that fighting is the final and last step in the negotiation process. Once this action is taken, it does not reverse until the situation has evolved into a safe situation for you or those under the mantel of your care. It could be the person fled, or you have reached a safe area among others.
Will of survival- This is far underestimated and sometimes overlooked. This is often refereed to the will to live. Once you are engaged in an actual fight for survival, you must commit and win, understanding when the fight has stopped so do you. But as long as you are in a life threatening situation, you fight with all your will and might. No matter what you have, even if you run out of ammunition, all you have is a water bottle, keep fighting. Remember it is not the tiger in the fight, but the fight in the tiger. This is a very powerful part of the mindset. This is what has saved human being's from prehistoric animals, combat, cancer and many other against all odds victories. You fight till it has ended or you win.
This mindset takes some time to get into the groove of. Like all things you need to start using it so it becomes natural. As will all things around the lifestyle of concealed carry, this needs to be understood and implemented. This article goes with the few others I wrote, which discusses situation awareness, preparing armed citizen mindset, check them out to understand it to the fullest. In the future, I will write and article that will deal with the last part of the mindset, Mind after engagement. The article will give some insight into a few people who has been in life threatening situations. It will go into what and how they had to deal with the rest of their lives.
Feel free to leave a comment or question.
Todd Mendenhall
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