Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Holiday store hours

Due to the New Year's holiday, we will be closed 1/1/15 (Thursday) - 1/3/15 (Saturday).

We apologize for this inconvenience, and we hope you spend the holiday with your loved ones.


We will be open for regular business hours on Monday, January 5th, 2015.

Save the Date: Maui Friends of NRA Dinner 2015

It's that time of year again. We've been preparing for our annual NRA dinner and if you're on our mailing list, you've already received a note in the mail.


Our dinner this year will be on March 7th at the King Kamehameha Golf Club. 


If you're interested in buying tickets to this year's dinner, call us and we can reserve your seats.
Also, if you would like to be added to our mailing list, send us an email and we will make sure you receive our future mailings.


Phone: (808) 872-2422
Email: centralgunsandammo@yahoo.com

Monday, December 15, 2014

Product Review: Slip 2000 cleaning supplies



As gun owners, we're constantly looking for the best cleaning products to protect our investments. At Central Guns and Ammo, we've seen all the latest brands from Hoppe's to Butch's, but we only recently started stocking Slip 2000.

Slip 2000 products are multi-environment and multi-terrain synthetic lubricants, which means that these cleaning products are proven to work in all conditions. We’ve personally used the products on various weapons, and have had heard testimonials from our customers as well.

Slip 2000 Gun Lube


The Slip 2000 Lubricant is an all-in-one synthetic gun lubricant, cleaner and preservative.

It has been formulated for use on rapid-fire and repetitive shooting firearms including black powder, shotguns, rifles and pistols.

What makes Slip 2000 so different from any other gun lube on the market is that it contains a metal treatment designed to control friction, which reduces heat, and eliminates excessive wear.

One of the things we like about Slip 2000 is that their products do not contain any silicone, which means your guns will never get sticky or tacky. This lube also doesn't attract dust, dirt or grime.


Slip 2000 Copper Cutter
The Slip 2000 Copper Cutter is specially formulated to remove copper, lead and powder residue from the bore surface with very little scrubbing. With this solution you can clean rifles, shotguns, pistols and revolvers.

The best way to use this lube is to apply it to your weapon and let it sit for a few minutes before gently scrubbing if necessary. Since the Copper Cutter cuts out a lot of scrubbing, your cleaning time will be a lot shorter and less tedious. So if you're looking for a spotless cleaning, the Copper Cutter is definitely a time saver. 


Slip 2000 725 Gun Cleaner




The Slip 2000 725 Gun Cleaner is one of the best degreasers on the market today. This cleaner will cut through the toughest carbon, grease and grime and  its super strength allows it to degunk the dirtiest of gun parts.

What makes this cleaner different than the rest of Slip 2000's products is that it was specially formulated to help protect sensitive metals. Many gunsmiths have praised how well it works, how easily it rinses to leave parts bare-metal bright, and how long it lasts for savings in product upkeep and disposal cost reduction.

Like all other Slip 2000 products, the 725 Gun Cleaner is water-based, which allows the lube to avoid environmental and health safety issues. 











Slip 2000 Carbon Killer

The final Slip 2000 product we carry in store is the Carbon Killer Bore Cleaner, which is most popular for being the quickest bore cleaning lube available today. 

For extreme carbon cleaning and preventative rusting, Carbon Killer dissolves carbon and lead immediately on contact. It was designed for soaking metal parts with baked on carbon. 

As with every other Slip 2000 product, the Carbon Killer was designed with your health and safety in mind, as it is non-flammable, non-hazardous and biodegradable. In fact, it's one of the few reusable cleaners out there. Carbon Killer provides you with a safe and effective way to clean carbon, lead and plastic.




Have you tried Slip 2000 products? What were your thoughts?

Saturday, December 13, 2014

Holiday Blowout!



Looking for a last minute gift? We're marking down the prices on our survival gear for the holidays.
You can never be too prepared for an emergency, and the Survival Seed Vault and 72-Hour Emergency Meal Kit make it so easy. Plus, you can never have too much 22 LR.

Survival Seed Vault -- (Reg. $29.95, On sale for $5)
The Patriot Seed Vault features only the best survival heirloom seeds. The concept of a survival seed vault has become more widespread over the last several years. More and more families are gaining food independence by growing their own survival, non-gmo seeds.


72-Hour Emergency Meal Kit -- (Reg. $59.99, on sale for $10)
Mountain House is well-known for its survival food supplies. This 72-hour kit contains enough freeze-dried foods enough to sustain a single person for up to three days.  


**These holiday deals are only good in-store, ending before Christmas Eve, while supplies last**

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Gun-related gift ideas


The holidays are here and that can only mean one thing: it's time to buy gifts (if you haven't already). We have lots of great stocking stuffers for the gun enthusiasts in your life:


Shotgun coasters

Start your day off right with one of these gun mugs

                              
Keep your drinks chilled (or make your own chocolate!) with these gun and bullet-shaped molds


Everyone loves a little gun trivia. These books are packed with fun facts that will surprise even the most informed firearm fan.

This gun cylinder pen holder will be the perfect addition to any office! 

All of these gifts (and more!) are available this holiday season in the store. If you're interested in ordering online, send us an email! 


Thursday, November 27, 2014

Happy Thanksgiving

 Here at Central Guns and Ammo, we have a lot to be thankful for — Great customers, good business, and happiness and health in the great USA. In honor of the holiday, we will be closed today to celebrate Thanksgiving with our family. We are wishing you a very special day with family and friends. May you experience a belly full of good food and a heart full of gratitude!

Tomorrow we will be holding our Black Friday sale, and everything in the store will be up to 30% off. We’ll also be giving away free boxes of 22 LR to the first 30 customers in line and we will have hundreds of rounds of 22 LR for sale. Plus, we will be giving away a Ruger 10/22 and ammo! If you’re not on Maui for our sale, everything on our website will also be 20% off (use the code THANKS at checkout).



Monday, November 24, 2014

The 3 Main Rules of Firearm Safety & Why They're Important


At Central Guns and Ammo, we teach many firearm safety courses, and while there are many rules of firearm safety, three are of paramount importance and must be followed at all times.

When followed, these three rules will prevent negligent discharges. If a negligent discharge does happen, no one will get hurt. These three rules were created by the National Rifle Association.

1. Always Keep the Muzzle Pointed in a Safe Direction: Up, Down, or Away.

This is the first rule of firearm safety. You are responsible for the bullet when it leaves the barrel. It basically has your name on it. The reason it is so critical is because if a firearm discharges and it is pointed in a safe direction, no harm will come to pass.

Depending on where you are, safe directions to aim the firearm include up in the air, down at the ground, and away from people or anything of value.

2. Always Keep a Firearm Unloaded Until Ready to Use.

In addition to always keeping a firearm unloaded until you are ready to use it, always check the action to confirm it is unloaded when picking it up or receiving it from another person. This is true even if the firearm is brand new in the box from the manufacturer. After verifying the firearm is unloaded, the person handling it should always treat it as if it is loaded.

3. Never Put Your Finger on the Trigger Until You are Ready to Shoot.

While there have certainly been documented incidents where firearm accidents occurred even though no one pulled the trigger, negligent discharges mostly occur because someone pulled the trigger by mistake.

Eliminate that possibility by never placing a finger on the trigger -- meaning do not have a finger inside the trigger guard -- unless planning to fire the firearm.

Other Rules to Keep in Mind:

By extension of these three rules, all other errors associated with firearms are eliminated. For example, a general rule of firearms is never point a firearm at another person unless you intend to fire at them. This rule could easily replace rule number two, -- and there is nothing wrong with considering it a cardinal rule -- but the notion follows logically from the rule: always point a firearm in a safe direction.

Another rule of firearms is always keep the safety on, -- even if a firearm is empty -- but eliminating one of the three cardinal rules with this one opens the door for mistakes that the other rules prevent. As such, always keep a firearm unloaded until you are ready to use it. The safety is a mechanical device which can fail, so the person handling the firearms should always act as if the safety doesn’t work.

Key Takeaway:

If a person always treats a firearm as if it's loaded, never points a firearm at another person, and keeps their finger off the trigger until they are ready to shoot, virtually all potential negligent discharges are eliminated.

Monday, November 17, 2014

More than six in 10 Americans say guns make homes safer

(Originally posted by Gallup)

The percentage of Americans who believe having a gun in the house makes it a safer place to be (63%) has nearly doubled since 2000, when about one in three agreed with this. Three in 10 Americans say having a gun in the house makes it a more dangerous place.
Having a Gun in the House -- Safer or More Dangerous?
Gallup originally asked Americans about their views on the implications of having a gun in the home in 1993, and then updated the measure in 2000. Between 2000 and 2006, less than half of Americans believed having a gun at home makes it safer -- but since then, this percentage has significantly increased to a majority.
Republicans (81%) are about twice as likely as Democrats (41%) to believe having a gun improves home safety. About half of Democrats say having a gun makes a home a more dangerous place to be.
Although there is a gender gap in the results for this question, majorities of both men (67%) and women (58%) believe having a gun improves home safety. While one in three women say it makes for a more dangerous place to be, only one in four men say the same about guns in the home.
About two-thirds of whites and Southerners endorse having a gun to improve home safety, as do majorities of nonwhites (56%) and residents of the other three regions.
Having a Gun in the House -- Safer or More Dangerous?
Since 2000, Americans of all political stripes have become more inclined to believe a gun makes a home more secure. But the rate of increase has been greatest among Republicans, with 81% now holding this position, up from 44% in 2000.
While those who identify with the GOP have seen a 37-percentage-point growth in this sense of safety, independents show a 29-point climb and Democrats show a 13-point increase.
Do you think having a gun in the house makes it a safer place to be or a more dangerous place to be?
More Than Four in 10 Americans Keep a Gun in Their Home
Forty-two percent of Americans report having a gun in their home, similar to the average reported to Gallup over the past decade. This self-reported measure has fluctuated from survey to survey, but is consistent with trends since 2004. Longer term, Gallup has found that household gun ownership has ranged from a low of 34% in 1999 to a high of 51% in 1993.
Percentage of Americans Who Have a Gun in Their Home
Republicans are twice as likely as Democrats to have a gun in their house. A majority of Southerners say there is a gun in their home, much higher than the rate among those in the West and East.
Men are about equally as likely to have or not have a gun at home. About six in 10 women say they do not have a gun in the home.
Percentage of Americans Who Have a Gun in Their Home, by Demographic Group
Most survey respondents report that the gun in their household belongs to them personally (30%), as opposed to another household member (14%). This means that about one in three people who have a gun in their home are not personally owners, but are aware the gun is there. The personal ownership trend has been generally stable over the past 13 years.
Gun Ownership in Household
Americans who have a gun in their household are significantly more likely than others to say that having a gun makes a home safer (86%), though one in 10 believe it makes a household more dangerous.
Bottom Line
While Gallup figures on U.S. gun ownership have not shifted much since 2006, the percentage of Americans who say that having a gun in the home makes that household safer has drastically climbed over the past eight years.
Americans own guns for a wide array of reasons, but the increase in the perceived safety value of owning them suggests that guns are taking on more of a protective role than they have in the past. Florida passed the nation's first "Stand Your Ground" law in 2005, followed by dozens of states that passed different versions of the law. In the decade since, Americans have become more likely to view guns as a means of self-protection.
Regardless of Americans' perceptions of crime and their need to protect themselves, violent crime rates fell significantly from 1993 to 2012. While it may be a contentious assertion, some attribute falling crime rates to increased gun sales.


What do you think? Are homes safer with firearm protection? Would you feel less secure if you did not have firearms in your possession?

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

10 tips on taking kids hunting

(Originally posted by U.S. Sportsmen)

Getting the next generation of hunters into the field should be a top priority this season for each and every license buying sportsmen. If you’re not already taking a child with you then please consider it for at least a few hunts this fall. It’s not only an investment in the future of our outdoor pursuits, but you’ll come to find out it’s even more rewarding than you can imagine. The experience can literally change the way you and that child approach the outdoors. Here are 10 tips to keep in mind when you’re planning to take a youth hunting.

1. Safety. This should go without saying, but I’m going to say it anyway. Safety is first and foremost above everything else. My children have been taught from an early age there are three rules to everything we do outdoors and we discuss them while we’re riding in the truck before each outing. Our entire outing is filled with teaching moments focused on safety. As long as we follow the first two rules then rule three is always automatic.
Rule #1 – Safety first!
Rule #2 – Listen to Dad.
Rule #3 – Have fun.

2. Make it fun. Establish the mindset that when you’re taking a youth into the field it is about them and not about you. Don’t push them to hunt as hard as you normally would, or pressure them into situations because of your own drive. Step back and see the big picture from the child’s perspective. Let them progress at their own pace and they’ll take ownership of the situation.

3. Weather. Some of the best hunting can be in tough weather, but since we’re making this all about the child, optimize the experience by taking them out in pleasant conditions. Early season bow hunts from a ground blind overlooking a field or mid-October walks through the squirrel woods are perfect ways to get youth outdoors.

4. Patience. Don’t lose it. Children are going to make noise and squirm in their chairs. Find ways to guide their energy while creating teaching moments. Bring along a bird ID book and see how many types of birds you can find together. Collect leaves, acorns and pine cones to match them up to pictures in a tree ID book. If necessary you can even break out an iPod and let them play games for a while.

5. Snacks. This item could easily be listed as #2 because it is almost as important as safety. Bring along some snacks and drinks to share with the child when you can see their attention starting to fade. Let them pick out the snacks at home or even better yet, support your local economy by giving the child a few bucks then stopping at the convenience store. Find a way to make it special or maybe start a pre-hunt tradition here.

6. Exposure. The outdoors can easily be a year-round activity to involve children in. Take them out to help train your duck dog. Involve them in the training by having them give the dog commands or throw out bumpers for the dog to fetch. Invite them to hike into the woods to monitor trail cameras or establish mineral sites. Let them be the first to look through the trail camera pictures when you get them uploaded, and if you’re into naming target deer then let the child pick the names this season.

7. Not for everyone. Don’t put any pressure on a child to take up hunting. Let them come along at their own pace and develop through their own curiosity. When a child sees their parent involved in an activity they will be naturally inclined to want to learn more about that activity. Embrace and encourage that but only at the appropriate pace for that individual child. Pushing them too fast can ruin the experience. Ultimately they may still choose not to hunt anyway, but allow them the opportunity to make that decision. Taking this approach will still leave them with a favorable impression of hunting and our role in conservation.

8. Discuss. One of the things I love most about hunting is that it is an endless learning process. You’ll never know everything there is to know about monster bucks, for example.  Quite frankly, even though I’m always thirsty for knowledge, I don’t want to know everything. That just adds to the allure. Hunting creates an infinite amount of teaching moments as you’re introducing children to the outdoors. They’re naturally inquisitive so this opens up a fantastic set-up for you to talk through the what, where, when, why and how’s of hunting.

9. Participate. A big component of a successful youth hunt is letting them actually play a role in the experience. Let them help get decoys out of the bag, pack their own backpack to carry into the woods or follow deer tracks to where they think a good spot to hunt might be. This not only helps make them feel like they’re part of the team but also promotes active learning through your careful guidance.

10. Timing. From late October to mid November I’m happily perched in a tree stand from before the sun comes until after it has gone down (as long as I have my snacks). However, there is absolutely no way I’d expect my children to be able to endure the same bowhunting marathon. Keep your youth hunts short in duration, maximized with activity and custom tailored to the individual. Just like training a good retriever you always want to finish on a high note. Find that happy medium of just before they’re too tired and bored yet still left wanting more!

This is a subject near and dear to me with two hunting up-and-comers in the family. While there could easily be a list of 100 items to keep in mind, my hope is that these 10 tips touch on some of the main points of introducing our hunting heritage to today’s youth. Above and beyond everything else, just make sure to keep the experience fun for them. The days spent afield have a special way of creating some of the strongest bonds we will experience in life. When put into that perspective, who better to introduce to our hunting heritage than your own children, relatives or family friends.

Tuesday, October 7, 2014

The changing face of today's target shooter

(Originally posted by NSSF)



A new infographic issued by the National Shooting Sports Foundation tells the story, at a glance, of the growing number of new target shooting enthusiasts and how they’re surprisingly different from established shooters.

Newcomers—defined as those who have taken up target shooting in the last five years—are trending younger and female; also, they are city and suburban dwellers. In these ways, they are quite different from established participants and, as a result, are changing the face of target shooters in America. This influx of newcomers also underscores that the traditional pastimes of handgun, rifle and shotgun target shooting continue to have a broad appeal to new generations of Americans.

Driven by newbies, target shooting participation has leaped by 19 percent, from 34.4 million in 2009 to 40.8 million in 2012. That’s a 6.4 million increase; for comparison, golf and some other traditional activities have seen their participant base decline by millions.

Although they may be different in age and gender, newcomers share one important thing with established participants—their passion for firearms ownership and the shooting sports.

To see more informative NSSF infographics, click here.

Thursday, October 2, 2014

It's GLOCKtober!

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During the month of October, all of our Glock merchandise will be on sale. Our prices will be so low, we can't even advertise it! This includes all Glock pistols, magazines, hearing and eye protection, range bags and lots of freebies (keychains, stickers and lanyards).



Come into the shop during the entire month of October to see our scary prices! 

As Maui's official Glock LEO (Police and Law Enforcement) dealer, we offer discounts to police officers, fire fighters, the Department of Land and Natural Resources and our military personnel. 

 

Monday, September 29, 2014

History of the AR-15 — America's most popular rifle design

(Originally posted by Stag Arms)


The AR-15 design was originally invented in the years following World War II as a direct response to the evolving needs of infantry soldiers. The Operations Research Office of the Army had determined that they needed a low recoil firearm which would have a decent capacity to fire small projectiles.

The Winchester Repeating Arms Company, the Springfield Armory, and ArmaLite all developed prototype firearms, with ArmaLite’s offering being the now-famous AR-15 rifle.


Many Different Rounds Available

One of the biggest benefits of owning an AR-15 is that the rifle can quite literally grow with you over the years. With a huge array of conversion kits and components available you can customize the rifle in virtually any way you wish. From .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm rounds (the two ‘standard’ ammunition sizes), to 6.8 SPC rounds, or even .22LR; the AR-15 can fire an incredibly wide variety of rounds. Whether you are a hunter, a target marksman, or interested in home protection, you will be able to find a round that fits your needs.


Full Barrel Customization

There are many different barrel lengths available with the 16 inch government profile being the most popular. There are 14 inch and shorter barrels but they must have a permanently attached muzzle device to bring the length back up to a legal 16 inch minimum. Maneuverability is the key trade-off when a longer-heavier barrel is chosen. Available in lengths up to 24 inches, longer barrels are generally more accurate but also more cumbersome.


Right-Handed & Left-Handed Rifles

While technically Colt Firearms owns the trademark on calling their products “AR 15” rifles, there are a wide variety of manufacturers who produce models colloquially known as AR-15 firearms. However, most of Colt’s products are manufactured for right-handed shooters; this is a real problem for left-handed marksmen and hunters. When left-handed shooters shoot a right hand rifle the empty brass cartridge flies across their face when being ejected from the firearm. These enthusiasts usually look at the models produced by Stag Arms instead, who is known for producing the highest quality left-handed AR-15 rifles.



The Most Popular for a Good Reason

The AR-15 models have proven to be the most popular for several good reasons:

  • Wide selection of rifle models


  • Easy to customize and convert


  • Variety of different accessories


  • Wide choice of ammunition calibers
  • Good for defense, hunting, plinking, and sport



With such a long list of advantages, and such wide versatility, the AR-15 is an excellent selection if you are looking to purchase a rifle, whatever your purpose may be. And we can order them for you if you're interested just give us a call!

Friday, September 26, 2014

Hawaii: Federal Court Ruling Overturns Certain Firearm Permit Laws

(Originally posted by NRA-ILA)

Last week, a federal judge overturned Hawaii’s current law which bars legal immigrants from applying for a firearm permit. This ruling came after an Australian citizen, who is a permanent resident living in Honolulu, filed for relief from state laws restricting him from obtaining a firearm permit.
The judge ruled that the discriminatory state law prohibiting legal immigrants from applying for a firearm permit violated the equal protection clause of the U.S. Constitution. Allowing lawful permanent residents, in addition to U.S. citizens, to apply for a firearms license will open the door for law-abiding individuals to exercise the guarantees of the Second Amendment in Hawaii.
This is the latest in a string of court rulings across the country overturning similar laws and is good news for individuals legally and permanently residing in the United States.

Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Why is a warranty important with a firearm?

(Originally posted by Stag Arms)


A warranty is a specific type of protection plan that is commonly offered either by a product manufacturer or retailer to cover certain unforeseen circumstances that may arise with the product in question.

In the case of a firearm, a warranty can be offered either by the company who made the product or by the retailer you bought it from.

While many people assume that a warranty of any type isn't really important, there are a number of situations where one will most certainly come in handy with regards to your firearm.


Damage

One of the biggest reasons why a warranty is important with a firearm has to do with certain types of damage that may unfortunately occur. Even though many firearms are made using strict quality control standards, there are still situations where one or more parts on the unit may fail through no fault of your own.

For example, in Hawaii there is a lot of salt air and damp weather that will result in rust and damage to stocks.

In the event that the aforementioned type of damage occurs, the financial burden of replacing the firearm with a working model shouldn't fall to the owner, but instead on the manufacturer which is why many companies offer a lifetime warranty which is transferable with the rifle if you sell it to someone.

With various warranty protection plans, the manufacturer will either send you the replacement part if it's something that is easy to replace or pay shipping both ways for the rifle to come back to us to be repaired.


Design Flaws

Another reason why warranty registration is important is because of design flaws. If you spend hundreds of dollars on a firearm that doesn't work properly but still doesn't actually have any broken parts or other damage, you shouldn't have to pay out of pocket to make the necessary adjustments.

The original manufacturer should take care of those issues for you provided that your warranty coverage is still in effect.



Key Takeaway

Because many people use firearms for the purpose of self-defense, warranties are always important to cover damage and other situations that may occur that you can't necessarily predict.

A warranty for a firearm is similar to any other type of product protection; there's a very high chance that you'll never need it at all and that nothing will go wrong with your product. That doesn't mean, however, that one isn't important. Especially when it comes to something as important as a firearm, it's significantly better to have a warranty and not need it than need a warranty and not have it.

Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Rallying for gun rights in Hawaii

The Second Amendment is getting a lot of attention in the 2014 election. 
First-time Republican candidate Joe Kamaka said before the primary that he expects it to be an important part of his campaign against incumbent Democrat Gil Keith-Agaran for the state Senate seat representing Wailuku and Kahului.


(Photo Courtesy of Maui Feed)

Gun rights advocates have scheduled a rally on Wednesday, Sept. 17, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. along Ka'ahumanu Avenue near the old Kahului Shopping Center. A flyer circulated by its sponsors says, "Attention Maui candidates, we are voters in 2014."

(Photo Courtesy of Maui Feed)

According to a July 2014 article in Honolulu magazine, "Despite Hawaii's strict firearm laws, gun culture is not only alive in the islands, but thriving. Firearm registrations have increased by nearly 450 percent over the past 14 years, according to the state attorney general's office. Nearly 23,000 firearm permits were processed by the state last year alone. 'Whenever there is talk about limiting availability, it drives the sale of guns,' said Harvey Gerwig, president and director of the Hawai'i Rifle Association."


(See more here)

Friday, September 12, 2014

Missouri Lowers Concealed Carry Age Limit to 19

Originally seen on CBS

Prospective gun owners in Missouri will be able to apply for conceal-and-carry permits at an earlier age after a bill was passed in both the House and Senate. The bill lowers the age to apply for a conceal-and-carry permit from 21 to 19. It also prohibits cities from banning open carry laws and allows teachers and school administrators acting as school protection officers to carry firearms.
Sen. Will Kraus, R-Jackson County, sponsored the bill. During the Sept. 10 veto session, Kraus said the purpose of the bill was to protect the rights of gun owners who have earned the open-carry privilege. According to Sen. Jolie Justus, D-Jackson County, the open-carry option is detrimental to Kansas City.
“We have a culture where, unfortunately, for whatever reason, people are killing people with guns,” Justus said. “It just sends a message that my city doesn’t want.”
Other concers regarding the bill incuded Missouri’s trend of lowering the age needed to obtain conceal-carry permits. Justus said younger minds haven’t fully developed and don’t have the same decision-making capabilities as young minds. According to Kraus, a young person’s ability to serve their country in combat and vote earns them the right to carry firearms.
The possibility of guns on school campuses also became an issue of concern on the Senate Floor. Justus said she feared the potential risk involved with arming school teachers and administrators.
The bill would require teachers and other administrators to receive training before being allowed on school property with firearms.
“If you do identify school protection officers, they have to go through POST training,” Kraus said. “Once again, this doesn’t mandate schools doing this, it’s an option.”
According to the Department of Public Safety, Peace Officer Standards and Training, or POST, regulates the licensing of peace officers.
Justus said she was not convinced these provisions addressed the issue at hand.
“More guns cannot possibly help this situation, in my belief,” Justus said.
The bill was originally vetoed by Gov. Jay Nixon in July 2014. It passed in the Senate on a straight party-line vote of 23-8, but passed the House by a bipartisan vote of 117-39.
With the House vote, the bill now becomes law.


What do you think about lowering the concealed carry age from 21 to 19? Here in Hawaii, we do not have a concealed carry permit available, but would you want to see one implemented? Would a concealed carry permit lead to an increase in safety in the community?

Monday, September 8, 2014

New BowTech items

Last week we got in a huge shipment of bows and archery accessories from BowTech. Due to popular demand, we are proudly expanding this area in our store. And as Maui's only BowTech dealer, we have all the latest models in stock. Check it out!


Here is a list of bows we currently have in stock:







Each BowTech compound bow comes with its original packaging, a BowTech hat and an owner's manual. We also have BowTech stickers and decals available in the store. If you would rather take your new bow home in a case, we have hard and soft cases available!






In addition, we also have a bow technician in the store who is available to fix all of your bow problems. He comes into the store on Saturdays, and is also available by appointment. Just call the store and we can help!








Tuesday, September 2, 2014

Change in store hours

TEMPORARY SCHEDULE CHANGE

Starting on Thursday, Sept. 4, we will be closing at 4:30.

Due to Air Riflery practices, we will be closing half an hour earlier than usual, at 4:30 pm instead of 5 pm.

We will also be closed on Saturday, Sept. 6 and 13, which means our in-store bow technician will not be able to see customers on Saturday. If you need to meet with the bow technician, give us a call and you can arrange to make an appointment with him sometime during the week.

Regular store hours will resume Sept. 17.

We apologize for the inconvenience, and thank you for your understanding.

Come out and watch the students compete in air riflery!




Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Front Sight Course Descriptions

At Central Guns and Ammo, we like giving back to the community and our loyal supporters, so this month we decided to give away a Front Sight Training certificate for the training institute in Las Vegas.
More information on the contest and how to enter, can be found here

Here is a more in-depth description of the courses available to you, should you win the giveaway:

**The two day course may be used for two people, while the four day course may only be used for one person**


Two Day Defensive Handgun


(Photo Courtesy of guntrainingcentral.com)


This entry-level course is for students who want to get a fast start on their gun training.

Upon completion of this course you will have a fundamental understanding of the defensive use of the handgun. Among the many skills you acquire, will be the ability to safely and easily present your weapon from the holster and fire two, sighted shots to the center of a target 5 yards away – all under 1.5 seconds!

Lecture Topics Include: 

  • Use of Deadly Force and the Law 
  • Color Code of Mental Awareness 
  • Stopping Power 
  • Civil Liability


Firing Range Drills Include: 

  • Loading and Unloading 
  • Grip, Stance, Sight Picture, Sight Alignment and Trigger Control 
  • Presentation from Ready and Holster 
  • Target Engagement from Arms Length to 15 yards under Time Pressure 
  • Malfunction Clearing 
  • Speed and Tactical Reloading 
  • Live-Fire Tactical Simulator Introduction

Firearm, Equipment and Ammo Requirements:

  • The weapon must be fully functional, have all factory-installed safety devices intact, and have no dangerous modifications (such as a “hair” trigger less than 4 pounds, removed trigger guard, etc.)
  • “Pocket Pistols” are not allowed due to their very small size and difficulty of use.
  • Holsters must be on the belt, correctly fit the weapon, completely cover the trigger guard, remain open when the weapon is removed, not allow the weapon to cover the shooter’s body, and not have a trigger guard retention device (such as the Blackhawk Serpa model and others). NO thigh rigs, cross-draw, etc.
  • Electronic hearing protection is mandatory and is available at the Front Sight Pro Shop or numerous retailers.
  • 200 rounds of factory ammunition is required, NO reloads.

Age Requirements:

  • 16 to 17 years old can take the course unaccompanied. (Parent or guardian must be onsite, though they do not need to be in the same course or on the same range.)
  • Minimum age is 11 if taking the course with a parent or guardian. The parent MUST have taken this exact course before, work with the child during the entire course, and be responsible for only ONE child.
  • Children age 10 and under are not allowed.
  • Unattended minors are NOT allowed on the property. They must be escorted by a parent or guardian at all times or be enrolled in an appropriate course.



Two Day Tactical Shotgun


(Photo Courtesy of thefirearmblog.com)


This entry-level course provides you with much more than a fundamental understanding of the tactical shotgun. Upon completion of this course, you will have the ability to use your shotgun with a skill level well above the rest of the gun-owning public.

Lecture Topics Include:

  • Use of Deadly Force and the Law
  • Color Code of Mental Awareness
  • Civil Liability
  • A,B,C Engagement Zones
  • Weapon and Ammunition Selection 
  • Tactics

Firing Range Drills Include:

  • Loading and Unloading
  • Firing Stance
  • The Three Secrets
  • Carry Positions
  • Patterning
  • Offhand, Kneeling, Prone
  • Target Engagement from 7-25 yards under Time Pressure
  • Multiple Targets
  • Tactical Reloading
  • Emergency Reloading
  • Select Slug Drill with Firing out to 50 Yards
  • Malfunction Clearances
  • Tactical Simulator

Ammunition Required (NO reloads, Magnum or steel shot!):


  • 100 rounds of birdshot
  • 100 rounds of 00 buckshot
  • 25 rounds of slug

Firearm and Equipment Requirements:

  • The weapon must be fully functional, have all factory-installed safety devices intact, and have no dangerous modifications (such as a “hair” trigger less than 4 pounds, removed trigger guard, pistol grip only stock, etc.)
  • The weapon must be 20 gauge or larger and have an attached sling.
  • Electronic hearing protection is mandatory and is available at the Front Sight Pro Shop or numerous retailers.
  • Elbow and Knee pads are strongly recommended.
  • Some type of shell carrier on the weapon and/or on the belt is strongly recommended.

Age Requirements:

  • Minimum age is 16 if taking the course unaccompanied.
  • Minimum age is 11 if taking the course with a parent or guardian. The parent MUST have taken this exact course before, work with the child during the entire course, and be responsible for only ONE child.
  • Children age 10 and under are not allowed.
  • Unattended minors are NOT allowed on the property. They must be escorted by a parent or guardian at all times or be enrolled in an appropriate course.



Two Day Practical Rifle


(Photo Courtesy of guntrainingcentral.com)


This entry-level course provides you with the practical skills of the accomplished rifleman. Upon completion, you will have the ability to quickly strike center hits from a variety of shooting positions at ranges out to 100 yards. If you want to acquire the skills that tamed the Wild West and won the last World Wars, this course is for you.

Lecture Topics Include:

  • Use of Deadly Force and the Law
  • Color Code of Mental Awareness
  • Civil Liability
  • Weapon and Ammunition Selection
  • Ballistics
  • Zeroing, Sight Adjustments


Firing Range Drills Include:

  • Loading and Unloading
  • Carrying Positions
  • Ready Positions
  • Shooting Stance
  • Sight Alignment, Sight Picture and Trigger Control
  • Rapid Assumption of Kneeling and Prone
  • Target Engagement from 3 to 100 yards under Time Pressure
  • Tactical Simulator

Ammunition Required:

  • 220 rounds of factory ammunition required. 
  • NO steel core or steel jacketed ammunition allowed. 
  • Please check the bullet with a magnet before arrival.

Firearm and Equipment Requirements:

  • The weapon must be fully functional, have all factory-installed safety devices intact, and have no dangerous modifications (such as a “hair” trigger less than 4 pounds, removed trigger guard, etc.)
  • The weapon's caliber must be a rifle round of at least 5.56mm/.223 or larger and have an attached sling.
  • Electronic hearing protection is mandatory and is available at the Front Sight Pro Shop or numerous retailers.
  • Elbow and Knee pads are strongly recommended.
  • Some type of magazine pouch on the belt is strongly recommended.

Age Requirements:

  • Minimum age is 16 if taking the course unaccompanied.
  • Minimum age is 11 if taking the course with a parent or guardian. The parent MUST have taken this exact course before, work with the child during the entire course, and be responsible for only ONE child.
  • Children age 10 and under are not allowed.
  • Unattended minors are NOT allowed on the property. They must be escorted by a parent or guardian at all times or be enrolled in an appropriate course.



Four Day Defensive Handgun


(Photo Courtesy of guntrainingcentral.com)


This fast paced and exciting course is for law enforcement officers, military personnel and private citizens who want a complete understanding of the defensive handgun and a skill level that surpasses 95% of those who carry a gun for a living.

Regardless of your experience prior to entering this course, upon completion, your gun handling, marksmanship, and tactical skills will be better than they have ever been and you will be able to safely and easily present your weapon from a CONCEALED holster and fire two, sighted shots to the center of a target 5 yards away - all under 1.5 seconds! That's right, from a concealed holster in 1.5 seconds!

You will understand the principles of tactics and have multiple opportunities to use your acquired skills under the stress of simulated, lethal encounters. This course is a must for anyone who chooses to own or carry a handgun for self defense.

Lecture Topics and Firing Range Drills: 
As outlined in Two-Day Defensive Handgun with added emphasis on:

  • Concealed Carry
  • Tactical Training Simulation using Realistic Targets in Shoot/No Shoot Scenarios
  • Target Engagement from Arms Length to 15 yards under Time Pressure. 
  • Course also includes Supplemental Lectures on Shotgun and Rifle topics with Single Elimination Shoot-off, and Distinguished Graduate Skills Evaluation.

Firearm, Equipment and Ammo Requirements:

  • The weapon must be fully functional, have all factory-installed safety devices intact, and have no dangerous modifications (such as a “hair” trigger less than 4 pounds, removed trigger guard, etc.)
  • “Pocket Pistols” are not allowed due to their very small size and difficulty of use.
  • Holsters must be on the belt, correctly fit the weapon, completely cover the trigger guard, remain open when the weapon is removed, not allow the weapon to cover the shooter’s body, and not have a trigger guard retention device (such as the Blackhawk Serpa model and others). NO thigh rigs, cross-draw, etc.
  • Electronic hearing protection is mandatory and is available at the Front Sight Pro Shop or numerous retailers.
  • 600 rounds of factory ammunition is required, NO reloads.

Age Requirements:

  • 16 to 17 years old can take the course unaccompanied. (Parent or guardian must be onsite, though they do not need to be in the same course or on the same range.)
  • Minimum age is 11 if taking the course with a parent or guardian. The parent MUST have taken this exact course before, work with the child during the entire course, and be responsible for only ONE child.
  • Children age 10 and under are not allowed.
  • Unattended minors are NOT allowed on the property. They must be escorted by a parent or guardian at all times or be enrolled in an appropriate course.

Four Day Tactical Shotgun


(Photo Courtesy of stu-offroad.com)


This is a comprehensive, entry-level course in the tactical use of the shotgun that will give law enforcement officers, military personnel and private citizens an undisputed certainty in their ability to operate a shotgun with authority.

Upon completion of the course, you will have the ability to rapidly and decisively engage targets out to 25 yards and you will know your weapon and ammunition well enough to deliver buckshot to end a hostage scenario! Select slugs drills will extend the range of your control out to 50 yards. This course is a must for anyone who chooses to own or use a shotgun for defense or duty.

Lecture Topics Include:

  • Use of Deadly Force and the Law
  • Color Code of Mental Awareness
  • Civil and Criminal Liability
  • A, B and C Engagement Zones
  • Weapon and Ammunition Selection
  • Tactics

Firing Range Drills Include:

  • Loading and Unloading
  • Firing Stance
  • The Three Secrets
  • Carry Positions
  • Patterning
  • Offhand, Kneeling, Prone
  • Target Engagement from 7-25 yards under Time Pressure
  • Multiple Targets
  • Tactical Reloading
  • Emergency Reloading, Select Slug Drill with Firing out to 50 Yards
  • Malfunction Clearances
  • Tactical Movement
  • Tactical Simulation using Reactive Steel Targets and Shoot/No Shoot Targets.

Ammunition Required (NO reloads, Magnum or steel shot!):


  • 300 rounds of birdshot
  • 250 rounds of 00 buckshot
  • 75 rounds of slug

Firearm and Equipment Requirements:

  • The weapon must be fully functional, have all factory-installed safety devices intact, and have no dangerous modifications (such as a “hair” trigger less than 4 pounds, removed trigger guard, pistol grip only stock, etc.)
  • The weapon must be 20 gauge or larger and have an attached sling.
  • Electronic hearing protection is mandatory and is available at the Front Sight Pro Shop or numerous retailers.
  • Elbow and Knee pads are strongly recommended.
  • Some type of shell carrier on the weapon and/or on the belt is strongly recommended.

Age Requirements:

  • Minimum age is 16 if taking the course unaccompanied.
  • Minimum age is 11 if taking the course with a parent or guardian. The parent MUST have taken this exact course before, work with the child during the entire course, and be responsible for only ONE child.
  • Children age 10 and under are not allowed.
  • Unattended minors are NOT allowed on the property. They must be escorted by a parent or guardian at all times or be enrolled in an appropriate course.



Four Day Practical Rifle


(Photo Courtesy of guntrainingcentral.com)


This is a comprehensive 4 day course in the practical use of the rifle that will leave law enforcement officers, military personnel and private citizens with the comforting ability to hit what they can see!

Upon completion of the course, you will be able to score center, first-round hits on targets appropriate to your weapon, at unknown distances, from improvised positions against the clock. With a rifle in your hand, you will be able to control your environment out to distances that you can identify targets. If you desire such ability, we await you.

Lecture Topics:

  • Use of Deadly Force and the Law
  • Color Code of Mental Awareness
  • Civil Liability
  • Weapon and Ammunition Selection
  • Ballistics
  • Zeroing, Sight Adjustments, Hold Over

Firing Range Drills Include:

  • Loading and Unloading
  • Carrying Positions
  • Ready Positions
  • Shooting Stance
  • Sight Alignment, Sight Picture and Trigger Control
  • Rapid Assumption of Kneeling, Squat, Sitting, and Prone
  • Target Engagement from 3 to 200 yards under Time Pressure
  • Tactical Simulator with Reactive Steel Targets
  • Emphasis on Speed and Accuracy of Target Engagement
  • Shoot-Off
  • Distinguished Graduate Skill Evaluation.

Ammunition Requirements: 

  • 540 rounds of factory ammunition required. 
  • NO steel core or steel jacketed ammunition allowed. 
  • Please check the bullet with a magnet before arrival.

Firearm and Equipment Requirements:

  • The weapon must be fully functional, have all factory-installed safety devices intact, and have no dangerous modifications (such as a “hair” trigger less than 4 pounds, removed trigger guard, etc.)
  • The weapon`s caliber must be a rifle round of at least 5.56mm/.223 or larger and have an attached sling.
  • Electronic hearing protection is mandatory and is available at the Front Sight Pro Shop or numerous retailers.
  • Elbow and Knee pads are strongly recommended.
  • Some type of magazine pouch on the belt is strongly recommended.

Age Requirements:

  • Minimum age is 16 if taking the course unaccompanied.
  • Minimum age is 11 if taking the course with a parent or guardian. The parent MUST have taken this exact course before, work with the child during the entire course, and be responsible for only ONE child.
  • Children age 10 and under are not allowed.
  • Unattended minors are NOT allowed on the property. They must be escorted by a parent or guardian at all times or be enrolled in an appropriate course.



Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Hidden gun storage ideas

There are plenty of reasons to hide your firearms and keep them out of the wrong hands.
Whether you want to keep them away from prying eyes, children’s hands or robbers, we have some tips on how to keep your guns hidden.
These secret storage options can blend in perfectly, keeping your firearms hidden and out of the wrong hands without drawing attention to where they are stored.
Keep yourself protected and your firearms inconspicuous with these ideas and thisamazing report that shows you why you MUST hide your guns.

  

40 Unique Places to Stash Firearms

We’ve all heard of hiding a safe behind a hanging picture, but have you ever heard of hiding a gun in an empty cereal box? How about on a hook under the bathroom counter? Check out this list for 40 secret storage ideas like these that you probably haven’t thought of!
40-Unique-Places-to-Stash-Firearms
  

Book Spines Box

Simply gluing some book spines to a box that is the depth of your book case will create an area of concealed storage. Whether you use decorative book spines for the living room or cookbook spines for the kitchen, you can choose a look that will easily conceal firearms in any room around the house! Want one of these? We sell a similar version in the store! 
Secret-Storage-Bookcase


Framed Art Secret Storage

This DIY gives you step by step instructions for this attractive hidden gun storage idea. Once again, you can choose to go with a picture that will work no matter where you place your secret storage. Check out the DIY here!
Secret-Gun-Storage-Picture



Tuesday, August 19, 2014

Giveaway -- Front Sight Firearms Training Institute

We just got a huge shipment of ammo in. We have over 10,000 rounds of 9mm, which can only mean one thing: a sale! We're marking down the prices on these 100-round boxes of ammo.



With each box of 9mm purchased, you'll be entered for a chance to win a gift certificate to Front Sight Firearms Training Institute in Las Vegas, Nevada (valued at more than $2,000!).

You can choose between a two-day course for two people, or a four-day course for one person. Front Sight is the world's premier facility for self defense training and recreation, and with this giveaway, you can be a part of it.

**No purchase necessary, see store for alternate ways to enter. Airfare and accommodations not included. Front Sight may have additional requirements, check website for details**



Depending on which course you choose to take, you will get to spend an exciting weekend at Front Sight and leave with the skills to safely protect yourself and your family. Firearms, edged weapons and empty hand defense courses taught by personable, real-world instructors who will dramatically elevate your skills and bring out the best in you.


Good luck!

Monday, August 18, 2014

How to properly store your guns

It's no surprise that we need to keep our weapons locked up, but many of us aren't doing it correctly. The following tips from Guns & Ammo magazine will ensure the protection of both your guns and your family. If you need any gun storage items, we have trigger locks and cases in the store!

A wide variety of safe gun storage accessories and containers are currently available. However, there is no universal solution to fill every role, or to fit every budget. Safe storage options are intended to perform one or more of the following tasks, which they do with varying degrees of effectiveness depending on how much money you’re willing to spend:

1. Prevent a gun from firing
2. Protect a gun from physical damage
3. Act as a theft deterrent

It’s much easier to consider the pros and cons of each storage system when they can be compared side by side. The following discussion is a walkthrough of the most common safe gun storage options, starting with the least expensive:

Trigger Locks ($0-$15):
Trigger locks fulfill a single safe gun storage objective: Prevent the gun from firing. Most new guns now arrive from the manufacturer with a trigger lock of some kind or other in the box. Trigger shoes clamp and lock around the trigger housing to prevent the trigger from being pressed. They should not be engaged on a loaded gun because they come in contact with the trigger as they are installed and removed. Cable locks allow the shooter to run cable through the barrel or action of a firearm. Since the cable blocks the action from being closed, the gun cannot be loaded or fired with the cable lock in place.

If these two lock options are not available, a simple household padlock can be looped over the trigger guard with the hasp set behind the trigger. This will prevent the trigger from completing a firing cycle. Although trigger locks are inexpensive (or even free), and can successfully prevent a gun from firing, they do nothing to protect the gun’s finish or to deter theft.

Soft-Side and Hard-Side Gun Cases ($10- $150):
Most sporting goods stores have entire aisles dedicated to affordable handgun, rifle, and shotgun cases. The options available range from padded fabric sleeves to rugged foam-lined plastic cases. The primary role of this kind of affordable carry case is to protect guns from physical damage. While they do a good job of preventing dings and scratches, their role as a security device is relatively limited.

Most soft and hard side cases can be “legally” locked for transport to and from the shooting range (check your local regulations). This could be a luggage lock through a soft case’s zipper pull, or a padlock through the handles of a hard case. This security system may be enough to keep small children out as well. However, the materials these cases are made of are easily defeated by ordinary edged implements. These low-cost cases also have a low theft deterrence value since they are light and easy to move. They have to be hidden or locked inside of another container to protect them from theft.

Gun Safes ($500 – $2,500+):
Simply stated, gun safes are the most secure gun storage option available to the average gun owner. Even the basic units have terrific advantages over any of the other gun storage units described so far. A locked safe will definitely prevent a gun from being handled or loaded. The upholstered interior and built-in gun racks will help to protect the finish of the firearms while allowing air to circulate. And, best of all, they are an effective theft deterrent.

Much like automobiles or personal computers, gun safes are available with a wide variety of features, locking systems, and finishes, all of which affect the bottom line cost of the unit. These cost-changing features include the gauge (or thickness) of the steel used to construct the safe, the strength and reliability of the locking mechanism, the level of fire resistance (if any), the extent of the warranty, shelf and rack configuration options, as well as the color and quality options for the exterior finish.

Because all gun safes are relatively expensive (compared to other gun storage options) it makes sense to consider what you want very carefully before you buy. First-time safe buyers should be careful to avoid two common, but serious, mistakes. The first thing to avoid is buying a safe that’s too small. A unit that’s a perfect fit for your collection today may not serve your needs in ten years. A bit more expense up front may save you the trouble of changing out or adding a second safe down the road.

The second mistake is waiting too long to buy one. Yes, gun safes are big, heavy, difficult to install, and expensive to pay for. But they are well worth the trouble if you have a gun collection you care about. How do you know it’s time to invest in a gun safe? If the guns you have are worth more (sentimentally as well as financially) than the cost of the least expensive safe you would be willing to purchase, then it’s time to start shopping for one.

Wednesday, August 13, 2014

10 shooting skills every gun owner must know

(Originally posted on Guns.com by Jeffrey Denning)


Want to be a great shooter? Whether you’re in tactical competition or real-world confrontation, developing skill sets found on this list of shooting skills will enhance your performance on the range and under fire. In the event of an emergency, these skills will ensure your safety.

1.  See Fast, Decide Fast
To shoot or not to shoot, that is the question. Deciding to shoot is the crux of the matter, really, and every shot must occur because of your informed decision to shoot.

Watch the hands for weapons that can kill, know the law and act fast very fast. Mental reflexes are the foundation here. Are you justified? Is it time to perform? Using shoot/no-shoot target training along with a variety of realistic scenario-based training can help hone this skill. What if-gaming and having a pre-determined tactical mindset will help too.

2.  Rapid Target Acquisition
Target shot at center mass.You see the threat, you’ve made the decision to aim center mass, now it’s time to get the sights lined up and on target and whether you’re holding a long gun or a concealed handgun, getting sights on target quickly is paramount to your success in a gunfight. Your vision needs to go from the target/threat to the sights in this scenario and this vision transition is absolutely essential and often overlooked. Using a natural point of aim and your pointer (index) finger to aim, helps with a quick target acquisition or TA.

3.  Smooth Trigger Pull
Many people can line up the sights correctly, but as soon pressure is applied on the trigger, the sights wobble. Arc of movement aside, shooters who have the focus to concentrate on both the sights and a smooth trigger all the way through the break, will have the best success. I bet you’ve heard this one a million times: watch the sights all the way through a smooth trigger.

Avoid convulsing the hand, rushing the shot, slapping the trigger or anticipating the recoil. Practice with double action only (DAO) and double action/single action (DA/SA) triggers and realize no two triggers are alike.

4.  Multiple Target Transition
Where there’s one threat, there’s often two making target transition clutch. Don’t get tunnel vision. Stop the immediate threat but then scan and transition to the next threat. Remember to scan with your eyes first: eyes, muzzle, target.  On occasion practice shooting three targets all at the 7 yard line. Shoot each of them once then follow up with more. Practice 180-degree shooting, as well as with targets at 5, 7 and 25 yards, all less than 30-degrees angle.

5.  Flash Sight Picture
A flash sight picture is an imperfect or less than perfect sight picture. When shooting up-close you don’t have to align your sights too precisely. Shooting a six-shot rhythm drill, for instance, will send multiple rounds towards the threat (or downrange) with a better than fair change of landing quality hits on the target. In this case, six very fast nearly bulls-eye perfect shots are better than one slow but perfectly accurate X ring shot.


6.  Pie-ing
Pie-ing drill for target acquisition.“Slicing the pie” or “pie-ing” is slowly moving from behind either cover or concealment while maintaining your eyes in line with your muzzle. Pie-ing is different than a quick peek. In order to keep the tactical advantage, you cannot give away your position or telegraph your movements.

Keep your elbows tucked in and don’t stick your muzzle, knee, head or foot out around the corner. Face the wall and bend at the hip. Learn to do it well on the non-dominant side without switching hands. Mastering this skill will give you a huge tactical advantage.

7.  Low-Light Shooting
Ideally, your guns should be outfitted with lights and rail mounts to accommodate them. Since you’re not the one initiating the gunfight, but are instead a reactive opponent of someone else’s violent stupidity, shoot-outs never happen when it’s to your advantage and there’s a good chance an attack will be in the dark or in low-light.

Practice with a weapon mounted light, but also practice with a handheld light. Reloads, malfunctions, pie-ing, and opening doors are all vastly different when holding a light.

8.  Aggression
Assertiveness and aggression can help you win and survive. Hold the beast in the cage; don’t attempt to spur or promote fighting; try everything you can in order to avoid fighting; but in the end, you’ve got to be aggressive. An aggressive stance and an aggressive attitude will help you maintain positive physical control of your weapon and quite frankly the situation. You will have greater balance, speed and a platform for mobility, in addition to the right mental attitude.

9.  Shooting on the Move
Shooting while moving drill. Standing still in a gunfight is plain stupid. It’s difficult to hit moving targets—so be a moving target. If you need to shoot on the move, it’s better to learn how to do it well on the range, under minimal amounts of stress. Start with baby steps. Shooting on the move is a good tool to add to your toolbox as a “just in case” skill.

10. Shooting Moving Targets
Just as you should be moving if someone’s taking aim at you, the threats may be moving too. Learn the difference between tracking and ambushing. Depending upon the distance to the target, you may not have to lead the threat/target at all. In fact, if you can’t tell it’s a plausible threat because the distance is too great, you’d better not shoot. That said, shooting paper targets on a static range will almost never simulate shooting real, mobile threats on a dynamic range.

Until next time, continue to hone your skills and keep adding to your tactical toolbox.