Top Women’s Spring Holsters & Firearms, Concealed Carry

Posted on by Josh Kinser
best concealed carry firearm and holster for women in spring

When spring comes we all get the itch to go outside and enjoy the sun.  From backyard BBQs and picnics, to walks and taking photos, the time to ditch sweaters, thick coats, and winter clothes is exciting!  But that also means light jackets, t-shirts, and capris which won’t cover a concealed carry as easily, or hide a holster.  That’s why changing out your gear from winter to spring is vital.

We talked to customers, attendees at a popular firearms show in Vegas, and our team to find the top picks for women’s concealed carry in spring and are excited to share them.  We used the following to sort through the picks helping to ensure they work both for spring and a majority of women.

  • Can work with t-shirts, tank tops, spring coats, and light overshirts shirts vs. longer shirts, sweaters, and long jackets.
  • The firearm is easy to grab, manage, and handle by the average female based on hand size at 6.8 inches.
  • Can be easily drawn and is less likely to snag on a light overshirt.
  • At least one option that is easy to conceal for b cups and larger as the most common breast cup size in the US is a 34DD according to both healthline and World Population Review as well as multiple manufacturers and brands.
  • Can work for dresses, pants, and with leggings vs. requiring jeans only.
  • We did not include belly bands as they can lead to too much sweating which is distracting from your surroundings, they can cause discomfort, and the community is divided on them.

Unlike some of our other posts where we match a firearm with a holster and ammo like the best handguns for bears, there are two holsters that a majority of our surveyed audience recommended. So we’re going to list those and then the three best handguns below with the reasons why.

Best Spring Concealed Carry Holsters for Women

We’ve got nothing against belly bands, but for us comfort is key when it comes to enjoying the spring time. The following holsters can fit with more spring weather clothing from t-shirts to capris, and a maxi dress to a body suit or fringe top.

Easy Draw Flashbang Bra Holster 

One of the reasons we love the Easy Draw Bra Holster from Flashbang is they design knowing every woman and every chest shape is different.  By considering cup size, shape, and space when creating this holster, it blends seamlessly into a b cup or larger making it perfect for concealed carry. It’s an easy draw direct from your bra for when seconds matter. 

The holster tucks right into your bra band letting the bra do the work while not causing sagging or dragging, and it holds comfortably with your natural curves. This is a holster designed by a woman (Looper) and for women, and with our interests and bodies in mind.  That’s why so many of us flock to Flashbang when we need concealed carry that is comfy, accessible when we need it, and works with our seasonal clothing, not against it.  

PHLster Enigma Express Leg and Lower Body

Finding the perfect outfit for a first date, brunch, or girl’s night is hard enough, realizing you need a belt and have to change plans last minute is not something you need to deal with anymore.  The PHLster Enigma Express comes with its own internal belt system so you can strap it to your thigh comfortably and access it from a concealed carry position if you need it.  

Not all of us want a bra holster, and the PHLster Enigma is our top choice for spring concealed carry.  It is not dependent on pants so it’s great for most outfits like shorts, leggings, or dresses.  Best of all this works with your style choices, you don’t have to work your style to meet the holster.

Don’t delay a fun day or night because you have to find a new outfit, this is your go-to, all outfit, and super comfy concealed carry holster that works with all types of spring clothing.

Best Concealed Carry Firearms for Women in Spring

Winter time has bulky coats and sweaters that hide your firearms, even when they’re larger like a larger Glock.  Spring is all about silhouettes which means your concealed carry firearm will show if you stick with winter picks.  That’s why snubbies and compacts hit the scene.

They’re easier to conceal on your body and can still pack a punch when you need to defend yourself in a threat situation.  Here’s our top three picks that can be mixed and matched with the two holsters above. 

  • Sig Sauer P365X – This model fits most women’s hands great, it is relatively easy to rack the slide, incredibly accurate, has a capacity of 12 and it is slightly heavier leading to less recoil so you can get a second shot off if needed.  With its red dot optics and ease of control, it may weigh more but the handfeel can also help keep you confident in stressful situations.
  • Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 – This is a lightweight option compared to other concealed carry firearms and easy to conceal.  The flat faced trigger with a crisp break gives a feeling of control and makes it easier to fire when timing matters.  You can do a 10+1 or 12+1 magazine giving you the assurance you have enough rounds to get out of most threat situations.
  • Glock 43X – There’s no safety switch on this model because it uses the signature safety action system making it perfect for novices that are new to concealed carry and firearms. You get a balanced and versatile grip so you can maintain and aim while feeling confident in your control, and not have to worry about a firing pin stopping you from getting a round off in a threat situation.

When all is said and done, the best holster and firearm combo for women’s concealed carry in spring comes down to what works for your spring fashion style, is comfortable for you to wear so you can enjoy the season, and most importantly gives you fast access and control over the firearm so you can defend yourself if needed.  The two holsters and three firearms above are a great starting point if you’re new or looking to change up your gear.

Yes, Using a Toothbrush to Clean a Gun is Ok

Posted on by Josh Kinser
you can use a toothbrush to clean a gun

Using an old toothbrush that has no residue on it can be a great way to clean rust or debris off of the ornamental features on the outside of pistols or revolvers, and some of the decorative smaller areas on long guns like rifles and shotguns.  A toothbrush is not large enough to be able to reach each area of the barrel in a long gun which is why a bore brush or nylon cleaning brush is always going to be better than a toothbrush for long guns.

Pro-tip: Do not attach a toothbrush to a stick or piece of metal to clean the barrel of a rifle or shotgun as it could fall off and bristles can come loose and create a hazard in the firearm.

You should not use a toothbrush on any of the areas inside the firearm or that are used for firing the gun.  This includes the inside of the barrel, the chambers, firing mechanisms, and the magazines.  

A toothbrush is not designed for cleaning a gun, it’s for removing plaque and buildup off your teeth.  Depending on what the bristles are made of they could fall into the chamber or barrel, melt against it under heat, or clog the barrel leading to multiple types of issues when using the firearm.  If thread or cloth gets inside, especially in a magazine, it could jam it and create a very dangerous situation.

One other issue you may run into if you use a toothbrush to clean or polish a gun is the bristles are softer and more bendable than a typical nylon brush.  This may increase the amount of time you spend cleaning your firearms.  Some people find the process soothing and as a way to relax, so this could be a great option for them.  But remember, the toothbrush is not designed for cleaning a gun, so you may end up doing damage to it.

Pro-tip: If you do use a toothbrush to clean your gun, gun oils and lubricants tend to be thicker than a WD-40, so opt for a thicker lubricant so the looser bristles of the toothbrush can support it better.

It’s always a good idea to use products designed specifically for cleaning your firearms like a bore brush made from nylon, bronze, brass, or other material designed for removing excess powder and cleaning your guns.  It isn’t a good idea to clean your gun with a toothbrush, but you may be able to polish outside and ornamental features with one.

What a Carbine is, Its Uses, & Storage Needs.

Posted on by Josh Kinser
carbine guns

A carbine is a type of rifle with a shorter barrel than a traditional long gun and has multiple uses including sports, hunting, and by militaries for defense. Due to the shorter length of the barrel compared to traditional long guns, carbines are easier to maneuver in tight areas and are easier to carry on your body.  

The shorter length of the barrel also makes them a bit lighter than a standard rifle or shotgun, and easier to handle. This can make carbines better for new shooters, people that are 50 and over, or don’t want to carry a heavier firearm with them, especially if they have to camp or hike through the woods for hunting.  

The shorter barrel and lighter weight could increase recoil (depending if the firearm is gas powered, cartridge power, muzzle break, etc…), so make sure to test and configure the carbine properly if recoil is a concern.  

We recommend the following as a starting point to reduce recoil on a carbine:

  • Cartridge type – The type of cartridge significantly impacts the amount of recoil a firearm experiences, as the bullet’s weight and velocity, determined by the cartridge design, directly influences the force of recoil generated when fired.
  • Gas system – A gas system helps manage the recoil force by redirecting it through the mechanism instead of directly impacting the shooter’s hand.
  • Muzzle brake – A muzzle brake reduces recoil by redirecting the expanding propellant gases exiting the barrel to counteract the recoil force.

There is no shortage of options for a carbine as most of the popular gun manufacturers produce a carbine model.  Some of our favorite carbines include:

  • Sig Sauer MPX K  
  • Kel-Tec SUB-2000 
  • Beretta CX4 Storm 
  • Ruger PC Carbine 
  • Springfield Armory Saint Victor 9mm Carbine 
  • Colt AR9 
  • PSA AKV – Technically classified as a pistol due to barrel length and configuration, but can be considered a carbine.
  • Smith & Wesson M&P FPC – A blowback-operated carbine, but not beholden to the AR-pattern. 

Carbines can be stored in any long gun safe as there will be enough space available length wise compared to handgun safes which are likely not long enough for the barrel.  The biggest difference between the way you store a carbine vs. a standard rifle is the shorter barrel may need a different holder or grip as the mechanism that holds the firearm in place may not be short enough to grip it allowing for it to fall over or shift while in the gun safe. 

Our Agile™ line of gun safes allow for modular storage and will work perfect for your collection.

You’ve likely also seen carbine rifles and pistol caliber carbines in movies, music videos, video games, and with the military. This is because they’re equally visually striking as they are easy-to-use for sports, hunting, and defense. Now you know what a carbine is, why they are popular types of long guns, and have some options to help make a decision if you’re looking to purchase one.

5 Pro Tips to Firearm Storage in Saltwater Environments

Posted on by Josh Kinser
5 Pro Tips to Firearm Storage in Saltwater Environments

In order for your firearms to be able to protect you, or function properly on a hunting trip, you need to protect them.  Humidity can cause corrosion on both a gun safe and a firearm, and when you add salt to the moisture in the air you add to the potential damage.  There are numerous studies like this one that show the salt in the air can increase corrosion on metals like carbon steel, and this one which watched as wind deposited salt across a large stadium and monitored corrosion.

In addition to the normal corrosion from moisture, the air deposits salts which work as an electrolyte and modify the movement of electrons more easily than in non-saltwater droplets.  Corrosion is in part a result of electrons being moved via the electrolyte according to the United States Naval Academy, so the salt air may be acting as an additional conduit.

But that doesn’t mean you cannot take or protect your firearms in a vacation home or while on a trip, you just have to modify how you store them to protect them from the salt air.  Here are five tips you can use whether you own or rent out a vacation home with a gun safe, or you’re about to enjoy a trip with friends or family.

5. Clean and Lubricate Regularly

If the gun is stored off-season while you’re not using the home, or you are saltwater hunting for fowl, make sure to clean and lube your firearm regularly.  It is especially important to do this if you’ll be leaving the firearm after the season ends.  The lubricant acts as a protective barrier which may help with protection while you’re using the firearm, but will definitely help after if you don’t have time to wipe it.

Salt and humidity will corrode faster, so getting it all out and reapplying the lubricant post cleaning is vital before storing the firearm in saltwater air environments.

4. A Case in Your Safe

If the firearm will be stored in a salt air environment for long periods of time like a hunting lodge or vacation rental you visit once or twice a year, or in a gun room for your armory or collection, invest in a good case.  Gun safes have vents to help keep air flowing which reduces corrosion.  This also lets the salt air in.

Whether you have a gun room or a gun safe, find a weather proof and moisture proof case for the firearms you will be leaving stored.  If you clean and lubricate to remove the salt and moisture while adding a protective barrier, and then store in a water and air tight case, there’s less chance of the firearm gaining exposure to the salt air while it is being stored.

3. Invest in an HVAC Dehumidifier for Your Home

There’s a case to be made for using dehumidifiers in your gun safe, but when you live in saltwater air environments they won’t do much good.  The inside of the gun safe may be regulated, but it won’t protect your safe or your home.  If humidity is an issue, investing in a dehumidifier for your HVAC system will help to regulate the air in the home.

This works to reduce the humidity in your home and some systems have filtration that can remove larger particles of salt with the humidity.  None are going to be perfect, but any reduction is a good way to protect your home and your firearms with their storage devices.

2. Air Purifiers

HVAC upgrades are expensive and not always an option.  There is good news if you’re like most of us, some air purifiers are able to reduce and remove some of the salt from the air in your home.  They are much less expensive and can be added to the room your firearms are stored in.  

On top of these you can upgrade your air filters from the current heat pumps and HVAC systems that can handle tiny particles.  Sea salt particles in aerosols can be less than 0.2 μm according to Science Direct, so choose filters that can handle tiny particle filtration. 

1. Change Your Ammunition

We all have our favorite cartridges and ammo, but some can cause more corrosion than others.  It isn’t practical to clean the barrel after every use, and you may be in a rush before putting the firearm away and not have time.  

Check the packaging and manufacturer’s website for primer that does not contain potassium chlorate as this is the main culprit of corrosion.  Any small change you can make when your firearms are going to be in salt air environments helps, and this is one more that is in your control.

You cannot control the salt in the air as it is nature, but you can work to reduce the saltwater air that can get to your firearms and how often you clean and lubricate them to remove salt and add a protective barrier.  With proper precaution and maintenance, you’ll be enjoying your firearms even in salt air environments for years to come.

Yes, Bullets Can Fire Without a Gun

Posted on by Josh Kinser
Yes Bullets Can Fire Without a Gun

Yes, bullets can fire without guns because the firing is a reaction to heat, the primer being triggered, or simply enough momentum to propel it. A firearm is only one way to fire a bullet as it is designed specifically for striking the primer and using the barrel to build velocity from the force which is a result of the explosion inside.

The chances a bullet will fire from being dropped are minimal, but there are other ways to fire the cartridge.  

A non-explosive way would be a slingshot or non-explosive propellant like an airgun. There is no explosion and the velocity will be minimal, so it’s unlikely to penetrate deep and have the same effect as a gun, but it is technically in flight and can do damage. This is more like in the movies when you see a firearm hidden in a book or in a box and it’s silent because it’s propelled more like a cross bow than a firearm, or like a dart from a blowgun.

Although it may not fly, or at least not in a linear and curved direction, heat can cause what is known as “cook off” which is when the ammunition combusts and causes the bullet to fire or explode. Cook off was a concern when machine gun style firearms first came out because the cooling systems were not as advanced. That was until the Maxim Machine Gun was invented, which is part of the story of how silencers were invented.

According to wikipedia, some types of rounds with smokeless powder can cook off at 160-170 degrees centigrade, while a study on Science Direct shows another type was igniting at 151.4 to 153.4 degrees centigrade. So good news, chances are your ammo won’t cook off as these are extreme temperatures.  

With that said, you may be asking about fire proof gun safes. At these temperatures your firearms would already be damaged and it would be too late to do anything. It’s one of the reasons that fireproof ratings on gun safes no longer make sense.

The third and final situation a bullet may discharge without being in a gun is when the primer is struck with a lot of force. This too is unlikely because it requires precision, accuracy, and for a direct hit on a small area. It has to be a perfect case scenario, and this applies to dropping bullets accidentally.

Cartridges are designed aerodynamically to fly point or tip first by reducing or directing the air around them. This causes them to fly or fall tip first. The primer which would cause the cartridge to ignite and fire is on the back of the cartridge and likely would be the first point of contact on the ground or target.  

The chances of ammunition firing without a gun are slim to none. Yes, it can happen, but it is unlikely unless it is being done on purpose.

The History of the Glock 33, Alternatives, & Fun Facts

Posted on by Josh Kinser
glock 33

Introduced in 1997 and was referred to as the Gen 2.5 because it brought innovation to the line of Glock 357 caliber handguns, the Glock 33 quickly swept the personal defense market for concealed carry due to its accuracy, size, high muzzle velocity, and ease of control. It gives you the power of a revolver, with the technology of a modern semi-automatic firearm for personal defense.

Unlike the Gen 2 models that did not have finger rails (the grenade grip), which some people liked, the Gen 2.5 features these but lack the accessory rails of the Gen 3.

For Glock enthusiasts that love the feel of the finger rail, it was a game changer as you get the power of the 357 magnum in a sub compact and semi-automatic handgun. Now that it comes in a Gen 4 iteration that is shorter in length and lighter in weight, the Glock 33 is perfect for concealed carry coming in at 6.42 inches and rivals a SIG Sauer p365 for accuracy and feel, although we don’t play favorites.  

Fun fact: The Glock 31, 32, and 33 were all released in February, Glock 34 broke the pattern by coming out in April of 1994.

Ready to learn more about this firearm for self defense and how it bridged the gap between Gen 2.5 and future evolutions?  Keep reading to learn its history, the specs, and some fun facts you can use as ice breakers, for trivia nights, or to stump your friends.

Glock 33 Specs

Glock 33 Subcompact

Gen 2.5 (Original)

Gen 4 (Newest Edition)

Total length

6.5”

6.42”

Barrel length

3.43”

3.43”

Height

4.21”

4.21”

Caliber

.357

.357

Effective range

50m

50m

Weight (empty)

21.87oz

19.75oz

Trigger pull

28N

28N

Capacity

9 – 14

9 – 14

System

Safe Action

Safe Action

How it Compares to Similar Concealed Carry Firearms

People love the Glock 33s power and compare it to the Sig Sauer p365, but unlike the Sig which has an effective range of roughly 13.7m, the Glock 33 maxes out around 50m making it better if the threat is further away. They’re both effective for close range protection and both models have strong recoils, but the Sig’s recoil is lighter making it easier to control and get the next round off for newer shooters.  

If you want the effective range of the Glock 33, you’ll need to train before using it for concealed carry and personal defense. If weight is a concern for you, the Sig may be a better choice as it comes in at 17.8oz vs. the Glock 33 Gen 4 at 19.75oz. If you’re not a fan of the Sig p365, the p239 could be a great alternative.

The Heckler & Koch P2000SK could be another 357 subcompact alternative to the Glock 33, as it comes in at 24oz giving you the extra weight if you like to feel the firearm in your hand and a 6.4 inch length, making it just a bit shorter than the Gen 4. Both can be found around $500, and if you don’t mind used, you can find great deals making them affordable options for concealed carry.  

Although the P2000SK is snappy, the recoil is manageable compared to the Glock 33, so it could be better for people that are newer to personal defense and have not had as much experience at the range.

Pop Culture References and Fun Facts

The 33 never had the same accolades and recognition as the 19, but it did make its way to some TV shows and pop culture references. Two characters in Fabio Montale carry the Glock 33, and the same goes for martial artist Cyril Raffaelli who is seen with one in the movie District B13. Even though it isn’t as famous, it still deserves some recognition.

If you’re looking for a powerful concealed carry that gives a kick and won’t break the bank, the Glock 33 is for you.

Do You Need a Gun Safe if You Don’t Have Kids?

Posted on by Josh Kinser
Do You Need a Gun Safe if You Don’t Have Kids

Gun safes are part of responsible gun ownership, and we’re not just saying that because we manufacture them. They are for your protection as much as they are for protecting your firearms.

So yes, you do need a gun safe even if you do not have kids because:

  • Some states require them by law
  • You may have guests over for a celebration and they may bring their kids
  • Intruders entering your home and finding your firearm because it was left out
  • Having a muscle memory based protective routine helps you function in threat situations
  • Dehumidifiers can be used to help control corrosion if you live in humid areas

Restricting and Preventing Access

You may not have kids, but friends and family may bring theirs over for a holiday dinner or a BBQ. Whether it is children playing in your home or a guest who had a little too much to drink and goes exploring, neither should be able to access a firearm.  

Chances are you don’t carry your handgun on you 24/7 while you’re at home, and rifles can be eye-catching so people want to pick them up. Nothing good can come from the two scenarios above, which is why putting your firearms into a gun safe vs. thinking you do not need one because you don’t have kids is always a best case scenario.

Protection from Intruders

There are two main ways a gun safe can protect you and your loved ones from intruders. The first is, not having firearms accessible while you’re sleeping or out running an errand. Being in the habit of locking your guns in a safe vs. leaving them out is vital if there is an intruder breaking into your home.

If you leave your firearm out because nobody was home and you only needed to run a quick errand, that is when it matters most. If the intruder was watching and thinks you’ll be gone longer, they may see it right as you’re coming home and catch you off guard. They have the upper hand here and your firearm.

The same applies to you taking a nap and your firearm being in the other room. If they’re in the middle of their burglary and you wake up, a firearm within their reach escalates the situation.  They may not have known you were home, and you may live alone and have left it a few rooms over. If they get to it first, you’re at a potentially deadly disadvantage.

Although most burglaries happen during the day while people are at work, some happen at night. No matter what, you don’t want your firearms laying out near the threat if an invader comes in, and there are set places and points of entry burglars go first.

One of the best ways to defend yourself is to have muscle memory and routines built into your response. Hearing a crash in the middle of the night can throw you off guard if you were asleep. Being able to jump into action using muscle memory to hit the keypad correctly, access your firearms for defense, and either escape or get into protective positioning is vital.

It’s something everyone from security training facilities to the United States Marine Corps relies on, which they outline here. Building good habits can keep your body and brain responding to keep you safe, even when anxiety and stress hits.

It May Be the Law

Not all states require firearms to be locked up when not in use, and other states have laws about preventing people under a certain age like 18 in Hawaii (it was raised from 16 years old in 2021) and 17 in Texas from having access to them. These laws can change at any moment, including after we published this post, so check with your state’s laws for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

By having a gun safe and using it properly for storage, you can reduce the chances of accidentally breaking a storage law and prevent others from taking the gun. This document from the Department of Justice shares that at least six states including Colorado, New Jersey, and Michigan can hold you liable for actions taken by someone that stole your firearm and used it.  

Some of the states may require you to report the stolen firearm as soon as you discover it missing, which may or may not remove some of your liability, but again, these laws can change at the drop of a hat, including while we wrote this post and before we published it.  

Protect the Firearm from Corrosion

If you live in humid environments, your firearms could be exposed to excess moisture causing firearm corrosion. This leads to them needing more regular maintenance because of a lack of proper storage. The longer they sit in humid settings, the more they are exposed and need to be cared for.

If you’ve invested in a gun room, make sure it is climate controlled to keep excess humidity out.  Gun safes can come with built in dehumidifiers helping to prevent premature rusting and corrosion. Gun safes are another great alternative, even when they have vents. Yes, vents can let moisture in, but they also allow for circulation which may help reduce corrosion.

Even if you do not have kids, you may need a gun safe to prevent intruders from accessing your firearms during a threat situation, it could be the law where you live, and to help protect your firearms from humidity and corrosion.

The Basement is Not the Safest Place for Gun Safes

Posted on by Josh Kinser
The Basement is Not the Safest Place for Gun Safes

The basement is not the safest space for your gun safe, as basements are typically more humid than the upstairs (this article shares some the science behind this), which can lead to corrosion. In the case of an intruder, you won’t have quick access to your firearms for self defense unless you sleep in your basement, and in the case of flooding, your gun safe could get damaged as waterproofing is not reliable with gun safes. The rumor that your basement is the best place for a gun safe comes from a few theories including:

  • Security in that you can get down there fast, access a firearm, and escape quickly.
  • The concrete floors and solid foundations are better at supporting the heavy weight.
  • Basements are discrete so having the safe down there keeps prying eyes and curious visitors away.

Curious to know more about basements and gun safes? We’re happy to help. Let’s go issue by issue and share some alternatives so you can keep your family safe, firearms accessible, and collections protected.

Burglaries

According to ADT, only 4% of home burglaries enter through the basement. If the goal is to keep your collectible firearms away from burglars, basements could be better than the first floor as the front door gets 34% of break-ins and the backdoor at 22%.  

Although protection from burglary may make sense for storage, your safe will not be protected from humidity. Both the gun safe and the firearms can be damaged by mold, mildew, and rust.  

Quick Access for Security

When you sleep on the second floor of your home, storing your gun safe in the basement stops you from gaining quick access in threat situations, as most invaders access through the first floor. You now need to avoid the intruder while accessing two levels of your home vs. having a gun safe under or next to your bed providing quick access to your protective firearms.

If you do store your main gun safe in the basement, make sure you have a bedside gun safe in your bedroom so you can access your firearm. You may also want to invest in a hidden safe for your closet in case they come through the bedroom or you’re in a different area of the house.  

Pro-tip: Do not use biometric gun safes in the kitchen as wet fingers can prevent them from unlocking.

Anchoring and Weight Support

One of the best reasons to place a gun safe in the basement is they can be anchored to the floor which will prevent burglars from carrying them off. Although this is a sound reason, if someone wants the contents of your gun safe enough that they would carry a heavy one away, chances are they’re already likely prepared to crack it.

In addition to anchoring, heavier safes might not be an option in older homes or floors not designed for supporting heavy weights. If you’re curious about the load bearing capacity of your floors, check the building codes from when the home was built and during renovations, or hire a structural engineer to do a study. Using the basement for your larger gun safes where there is a concrete slab may be the only option. 

Corrosion, Flooding, and Humidity

No gun safe is going to be effective long term when it comes to flooding and the corrosion that results from humidity. Basements are more humid than other areas of your home, so keeping a gun safe in one requires additional maintenance and checks. In the event of a water main break, natural disasters like flooding or a pipe bursting, the water is going to rush downwards and flood your basement first.

Even if the safe prevents water from getting inside, mold and mildew can settle in and corrode the iron or steel while you wait to be allowed back into your home. If it is weeks or a month before you can safely access your basement, the damage may already be done as moisture can seep in through the ventilation systems.  

If you do store your gun safe in the basement, you can’t stop a flood, but you can have dehumidifiers in your basement and in the gun safe itself to help keep moisture levels under control for non-flood situations.

In general, storing a gun safe in your basement is not ideal because the climate will be more humid and that leads to corrosion and your firearms are not easily accessible in a threat situation. If your floors can support the weight, have the safe on an upper level to protect it from humidity and to have access when you need it.

Why Gun Safes Have Vents

Posted on by Josh Kinser
Why Gun Safes Have Vents

Gun safes have vents because they allow air to circulate which helps prevent rust and corrosion from impacting both your firearms and the safe itself. When moisture gets trapped inside because there are no vents to circulate it out, it can lead to mold which can damage your firearms, not to mention leave a musky odor on everything. Without ventilation, your gun safe can be more of a hazard than a helper.

You may be wondering if the vents prevent a gun safe from being waterproof, if they create an entry point for fire embers and ash, or a security vulnerability intruders can take advantage of.  We have some good news and some bad news on each.

Gun Safe Security

Good news, the ventilation systems on many gun safes do not impact the security of the gun safe as the openings are normally too small to fit a firearm through, and they’re typically placed on the opposite side or far away from the locking mechanisms. By being placed and sized strategically they keep your firearms inside the safe.  

Chances are that your gun safe will also not have any way to open from the inside, so there’s little to no chance of the burglar trying to unlock it via tools or lifting a latch in the case of an older gun locker with a metal bar that lifts to open the door.

Fireproofing

This one is bad news. If the fire is close enough to your gun safe that embers are going to make it through the vents on the gun safe, chances are the heat from the blaze is going to be more extensive and damage than the embers or ash.  Your guns are likely already warped and unsafe to use in these instances.

Fire ratings for gun safes are a false sense of security nowadays. Years ago, fire department response times were slower and homes had a substantial chance of burning down. When this was the case, fireproofing was needed. There were even two organizations that took on the role and are now around 100 years old.  

In modern times, the responses are much quicker so the fire response team can put out the blaze before you’d need fireproofing. In the event that your home cannot be put out, it’s unlikely the fireproofing would be effective as it only lasts for so long and under a certain level of heat.

Waterproofing

There are two common concerns with waterproofing and vents in a gun safe.

  • Moisture can get in
  • Water can leak through

It is true that moisture can get into the gun safe through the vents, but the ventilation system is also designed to circulate the air and push the moisture out. Moisture can also get in when you open the door, you’re cleaning the safe, or drip off of a box, guns, and other items you store.

If there are no vents, there is also no way to circulate this moisture out. That can lead to mold and mildew build up, as well as faster corrosion.

In the case of flooding, if the water pressure and levels are bad enough that you’d have to worry about the vents in the gun safe allowing water through, chances are the gun safe will already be jeopardized. Just like fireproof ratings, waterproof ratings on gun safes are a false sense of security.

Vents are on a gun safe to help circulate air and promote the longevity of your firearms. They’re a protective feature and not a risk. By not having a ventilation system, your safe may be more prone to corrosion, and that is what can damage your firearms more than a vent.

The Beretta 1301 – a Tactical and Home Defense Shotgun

Posted on by Josh Kinser
beretta 1301 for home defense and tactical uses

The Beretta 1301 is an Italian manufactured gun that was released in 2014 as an upgrade to the Tx4, and at the time their newest gas fueled tactical shotgun for home defense.  Although demand for the Tx4 was and still is strong, the price point drove away potential customers creating a hole in the market for the Beretta company to fill.  

This is how the 1301 model came to pass. It isn’t only the price that makes this long gun appealing.  The Beretta 1301 has features that make it more usable than its predecessors like the Tx4 including the kick-off system which was unnecessarily complicated.  

The 1301 also contains oversized controls and can come with the Pro Lifter system of the A400 making it the best of both worlds if you loved the Tx4 and A400.  For seasonal hunters, the oversized reversible safety button makes it easier to handle in snow and harsh conditions.  So how does it stand up on its own without the whistles and bells?

 

Beretta 1301

Barrel length

18.7”

Capacity

7+1 standard

Gauge

12”

Chamber

3”

Effective range

25+/- yards 

Cost used

$1,300+ for the basic model

Cost new

$1,720 for the basic model

Home defense (1 worst – 10 best)

8

Sports & competition (1 worst – 10 best)

8

Hunting small game (1 worst – 10 best) 

7

Hunting large game (1 worst – 10 best)

5

With its 12 gauge bore diameter, easy-to-control recoil, and ability to fire off 7 rounds with an extended magazine, the Beretta 1301 is one of the best shotguns for home defense.  This is especially true if you’re getting a bit older and your shoulder cannot take the recoil from more intense shotguns.  When seconds matter, getting the next round off could mean life or death, and the quick loading, semi-automatic technology gives you those seconds.  

The higher muzzle velocity is able to project the shot with a flatter trajectory and the force will aid it with a deeper penetration helping you to neutralize the threat more efficiently.  But the Beretta 1301 isn’t only for defending your home in urban, suburban, and rural areas, it can be used for sport shooting and competition.

The enlarged controls help you maneuver and handle the weapon.  If you’re feeling excited as you approach the station and set your hold point, your hands stay in control so you can claim that gold.

Skeets and clays aren’t the only opportunity for this shotgun.  It can cycle shells roughly 36% faster using its BLINK speed technology than comparable semi-automatic shotguns so it is perfect for birds like pheasant and turkey.  By having a light recoil and quick reload, you can get a second shot in or hit more targets before the opportunity passes. 

The serrated design of the bolt release lets you keep your fingers without having to constantly reposition your firing hand making it easier to hunt, including slightly larger game and smaller predators like coyotes.  It can be a great alternative to the A300 which is designed for waterfowl and birds.

Although you can technically use a Beretta 1301 for deer, it may not be the best choice on large game.  It will fire through vegetation like any other shotgun, but this is a home defense and tactical model vs. shotguns designed specifically for deer like the Winchester SX4 Cantilever Buck or the Mossberg 500 Slugster.  You can learn about the Mossberg 500 series here if you’re interested.  

The Beretta 1301 has also made its way into movies, tv, and even video games according to the IMFDB including The Tomorrow War, The Terminal List, and Ready or Not.  

You’ll want to choose a Beretta 1301 for home defense, 3 gun competitions, and every day practice or sporting.  If you need something on a budget, or want to go for large predators and big game, go with an alternate shotgun like the Mossberg Patriot.  Although it is a tactical shotgun, the Beretta 1301 is not being used by the military as rifles are better suited towards their needs with the longer effective range.

Now you know the history of the Beretta 1301, when it makes a good long gun for needs like home defense and competitions, and alternatives for larger game.

The Difference Between Gas & Inertia Powered Long Guns

Posted on by Josh Kinser
The Differences Between Gas and Inertia Powered Long Guns

Both gas and inertia powered long guns (shotguns and rifles) work for home defense, hunting, and sports like skeet shooting.  Gas powered long guns provide less recoil and faster loading making them better for self defense when seconds matter, and for older and young shooters because they are easier on your body.  

Don’t count inertia powered firearms out as they’re easier to maintain and are more reliable in harsh environments.  This is especially important if you live in areas with dust, sand, etc…  Because gas loading firearms tend to get blocked by this type of debris more often than inertia powered long guns, inertia is more reliable for protection when hunting large predators and rural home defense.  

At the same time, if you need to get multiple shots off because you’re a new hunter or you can’t handle the recoil as much as you used to, the gas is going to lessen the kick and allow for a faster cartridge replacement giving you an advantage.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed deciding between gas and inertia powered long guns, we’re here to help with this easy guide.  You’ll find a quick comparison table and how to choose between them based on your needs.  Please note the numbers on the table are on a scale of 1 to 10 with being poor and ten being the best.

 

Gas

Inertia

Ease of maintenance

7

3

Recoil

Light

Intense

Home defense 

8

5

Predator defense

7

5

Predator hunting

3

8

Shooters 50+

8

3

Shooters under 15

8

3

Hunters 15 – 49

5

8

Fast game hunting (waterfowl)

7

3

Slow game and distance hunting

5

7

Skeet shooting

Better

Worse

Distance targets

Worse

Better

Age

For younger sport shooters and hunters, go with gas powered long guns over inertia because the handler will be able to control the firearm better.  As their skills develop and bodies adjust to the recoil, they can progress to an inertia powered firearm.

For healthy enthusiasts in their late teens, 20s, and up to 40s, inertia is the way to go.  These age groups can handle the kick better and may be more open to hunting in harsh environments as this age range tends to be more adventurous.

Once your 50s kick in, it’s all about pleasure.  The recoil will be felt more making gas powered a more enjoyable experience as you’ll give your shoulder a needed break after decades of shooting.

Defense

There are three types of defense to consider when choosing between gas and inertia powered rifles and shotguns.  

  • Home defense
  • Predator non-hunting
  • Predator hunting

For home defense you will want to choose gas powered rifles and shotguns over inertia because the ammunition loads faster and the firearm is easier to control with the lower recoil.  If you’re hunting deer, waterfowl, or other animals and there are predators, both inertia and gas powered can be effective.

Because you’re hunting and know the fauna in the area, you’ll likely already have a firearm you are familiar with for hunting and can control.  So always take what you are best with regardless of inertia or gas powered when predators are around.  When you’re going into areas with large predators and big game, it comes down to the environment you’ll be in.

If the trip is going to be clear skies and clean environments, choose gas powered long guns so you can get more shots off which can matter when predators are ready to attack.  When the weather is mixed or you’re in harsh environments like desert sand, inertia has less chance to clog keeping your firearm working for when you need it.  This applies to safaris and long trips where you may not have cleaning and maintenance on the top of your mind.

Sports

There is no difference in accuracy between inertia and gas powered rifles and shotguns, so both work perfect for distance target practice and marksmanship.  When it comes to skeet shooting, gas powered guns have an advantage over inertia firearms because of the lighter recoil and faster loading.

If you plan on entering a sport competitively and always put off cleaning your long gun, inertia will likely be a better choice because these firearms require less maintenance than gas powered even though they load slower and have more kick.

Now that you’re ready to choose between gas and inertia powered long guns, don’t forget to check out our long gun safes for proper storage.

How a Shot String Forms and What Causes It

Posted on by Josh Kinser
How a Shot String Forms and What Causes It

Shot gun shot strings are a part of ballistics and a reference to how close the pellets stay together when they hit their target and are not a direct reference to the inside or outside design of the barrel itself.   There can be confusion when researching guns online as some sites consider a shot string to be a barrel pattern. 

Although they are sometimes interchangeable as references to the spread of the pellets upon impact, barrel patterns can also refer to the rifling (pattern) or bore of the inside of the shotgun barrel.  For this post we’ll mainly use shot string for the explanation.

The shot string is a combination of the:

  • Shape and weight of the pellets in the shell
  • Amount of powder used
  • Length of the barrel
  • Choke tube being added to the end of the barrel
  • Distance between the person firing and the target

Each of these impacts the width of your shot string differently.  When you have more gun powder loaded the velocity is increased with the added propulsion keeping the pellets closer together over a longer distance.

When you add a choke tube to the end of a shotgun barrel you can fasten it tight or loose.  When you use a tight choke tube it condenses the pellets as it leaves the bore, keeping a tight shot string over an even longer distance just like when you use more gun powder.  And if you loosen the choke tube you can get a wider spread for a shorter distance.  

You’ll want looser choke tubes for fast moving and close range game like doves and grouse that will take off in an instant.  The wider spread of the pellets gives you a better chance to make an impact for fast-moving, close-range targets.  The opposite is true for turkey and large game you hunt at a distance.  The tighter choke will keep the pellets condensed for a longer distance giving you a more accurate pathway to your target.

Longer barrels help to tighten the pellets as they leave the bore keeping a tighter shot string as they reach their target.  If the bore (the diameter of the inside of the barrel) is not sized to match the pellets, this can cause improper shot strings and excessive wear and tear on the shotgun.  So make sure you match the correct gauges to prolong its life. 

The shapes of the pellets inside the shotgun shell will also impact the shot string barrel pattern as some shapes are more aerodynamic than others.  But don’t worry about the shape too much as most are circular at this point.  The weight of the pellets for modern firearms and ammunition will likely have more of an impact.  

If the weight is mixed they disperse faster creating a wider shot string.  When the pellets are the same or very close in weight they can keep a tighter barrel pattern upon impact.  If you notice, the distance between the person and the target keeps coming up.

As the pellets leave the shotgun barrel they start in a tight pattern.  The air works against this pattern causing the pellets to spread loosening their shot string.  The longer the distance between the person firing the shotgun and the target, the more opportunity for natural forces like gravity, wind, and air resistance to spread the pellets further changing the shot string before impact.

Shot strings are a reference to the way the pellets hit their target and are controlled by the length of the barrel, the amount of powder used, the distance between the person firing and the target, as well as the shape, weight, and quality of the pellets themselves.  And now you know how to modify the spread of a shot string so you can hunt fast moving targets at close range, or big game and predators at a distance with more efficiency.

Which Gauges Are Best for Gun Safes

Posted on by Josh Kinser
what is the best gauge for a gun safe

Whether you’re buying your first gun safe or have an arsenal of collectors models and want added protection for specific firearms, there’s a lot to consider when it comes to the gauges of the metal.  Gun safe gauges, just like other metal materials, are based on a scale where the higher the number the thinner the width of the metal.

An 18 gauge piece of steel is thinner than a 10 gauge for example.  This applies to wiring, body jewelry, and gun safes.  The gun safe gauge scale ranges from a 20 gauge to a 00.  There is a common belief that the thicker the metal, the harder it is to break into the safe.

This is a rumor as there are modern tools and technologies that can crack a safe pretty easily, just like the jaws of life can rip through a car’s roof.  The locking system can also provide a vulnerability on some brands so even if there is a thicker gauge, the lock could be the safe’s Achilles heel.  If security is your concern, you want to evaluate thickness, lock types, and the materials used both inside and outside.

Interesting fact: The materials used inside your gun safe and in the walls can cause the gun safe to corrode both inside and out impacting your firearms. Even if you go for a higher gauge for protection, make sure the inner linings are also “safe” for your firearms and valuables.

There are four common beliefs about the thickness of a gun safe and if it is more secure. 

They include:

  • Being easier to peel or rip open
  • Preventing fire damage
  • Makes it heavier which makes it more secure
  • Less likely to flood or get flood damage

Yes, thicker steel may deter some people looking to rip open the gun safe, so if this is a concern for you, do not go lower than a 10 gauge.  But if the burglar knows you’re knowledgeable about firearms and security, they have already planned for a thick gauge and will still be able to rip it open if their target is inside.  And that goes to the weight factor.

A heavier safe will be harder to steal or move around.  The weight will help prevent a safe from being stolen by unprepared burglars, but not always.  Most burglaries happen while you’re not home as the intruder does not want a direct confrontation, especially with a gun owner.  They’ve likely mapped their pathway through your home as burglars have places they go first. 

If the gun safe is a target, they may have a dolly or lift and will come prepared to take it with them.  Securing your safe to the floor, wall, or some other way will likely be helpful, assuming they don’t peel it.

Next is fire ratings on gun safes.  Years ago this was important, but now fire departments get a majority of fires out before they would be able to impact your gun safe or the contents inside.  If the fire was that bad, no gun safe or gauge is going to help.  You may get lucky, so it won’t hurt if this is a concern for you, but it is likely money you could invest elsewhere.  The same goes with flooding and gun safe protection.    

The thickness of the metal may stand up for a while, but most gun safes have venting, and the humidity, mold, corrosion, and other factors that come after a flood can still impact the security of your gun safe no matter how thick the gauge of the metal is.

When all is said and done, the thickness and weight of your gun safe will deter some theft and some burglaries.  This can be especially true when you use secure locking mechanisms.  Also look for the security level or rating assigned by organizations like underwriter laboratories.  It is important to verify an unbiased third party gave the rating as manufacturers are able to do their own.

Now you know the truth behind thicker safes and thicker gauges being more secure, and you can make a decision on if you want to spend the extra money for a peace-of-mind, or save a bit.

The Unique History and Invention of Gun Silencers

Posted on by Josh Kinser
The Unique History and Invention of Gun Silencers

Have you ever heard the adage that “brains run in the family” or that it must be “genetic?”  Whether you believe it or not, the history of how the gun silencer was invented may add proof to the pudding.  This is because one invention led to another, which led to the creation of the first gun silencer, and we still use the concept to this day.

This “family” of events led to a “maximum” amount of innovation that will give you bragging rights at trivia nights, and some interesting ice breakers to get a conversation going.  It all starts with smokeless gun powder, the machine gun, and finally the silencer.

The silencer’s origin is a result of a pair of brothers and their inventions of smokeless gun powder and the Maxim machine gun.  The first brother is Hiram Maxim who was born in 1840 and in addition to firearms, patented improvements to the hair curling iron in 1866 which are features still used today like the tongs for when it’s hot.  But let’s not get off track.

Hiram Maxim is a father to modern defense systems with creations like the aerial torpedo gun, steam driven airplanes, and as we mentioned above, smokeless gunpowder and the Maxim machine gun.  These two inventions in particular changed modern warfare as we know it.

Smokeless gunpowder leaves less fouling so guns can fire without needing to be cleaned as frequently.  In addition, smokeless powder is more powerful than standard black powder at roughly three times the strength giving the projectile a lot more umph.  And this was vital for the next invention.

The Maxim machine gun invented in 1884 fired 11 shots per second and was able to use the recoil to remove the used cartridge so the next one can load and fire.  Water is used to cool the jacket so it can keep running, and with his ingenuity he was able to create what many consider the first usable machine gun in history.  But Hiram wasn’t the only brains in the family, he had a brother Hudson.

Hudson is also an “explosive” name in firearm innovation Hudson Maxim.  Born in 1853, he always had an interest in science and physics, and in 1889 published a theory about matter and atoms and the principle of force (you can access it here via a membership) that led to recognition in the firearms, canon, and explosives industries.  In order to create his dynamite and smokeless powder, opened a mill in Maxim New Jersey in 1890 where he also invented maximite.

In 1901 he sold his technology for maximite and the science behind his powder that claims it could force a projectile through armor without it exploding to the army at Sandy Hook for $50,000.  The two brothers built a name for their family in science, technology, and innovation which lead to a comfortable life.  Hiram eventually had a son who was named Hiram Percy Maxim.

Being around explosives, machine guns, and dynamite can take a toll on your body.  Hiram eventually went deaf from his work.  With ingenuity in the family gene pool, his son Hiram Percy Maxim began on his own creations.  

In 1902 he released the first ever commercially available silencer called the Maxim Silencer, and got the patent for it seven years later in 1909, then filed for another in 1921 which was approved in 1924.  This is the same model and basis for the gun silencer that we know and use today.

This family had a “maximum” impact on the history of firearms, mining and explosives, not to mention the military.  If you enjoyed this post about firearm history, join our newsletter by entering your email below for more like it.

The 6.5 Creedmoor, a Centerfire That Hits the Spot

Posted on by Josh Kinser
6.5 creedmore uses and information

Introduced by Hornady in 2007, the centerfire 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge quickly became popular due to its effectiveness at long range for marksman sports, ability to handle medium size game including deer, and its decreased recoil compared to the popular .308 Winchester.  Aside from being easier to handle when fired than the .308, the 6.5 Creedmoor at 140 grain has a strong velocity at 2,700 helping to keep it accurate.

If you’re a hunter and need protection, this may be a good choice.  The lighter recoil aids in getting the next shot off in the case of predators, and the 6.5 can do well against wolves or coyotes if you’re on a ranch or in the woods up to 1,000 yards.  For deer including buck, you’ll find conflicting information, but the consensus across the forums is 500 to 800 yards for effective range.  It will depend on the firearm you use, grain weight, and your skill level.

Fun fact: The 6.5 Creedmoor is accurate enough at long distances that the U.S. Special Operations Command switched from the 308 Winchester to the 6.5 Creedmoor for sniper rifles.

 

6.5 Creedmoor

Cartridge

Centerfire

Caliber

6.5mm

Use

Hybrid for sports and hunting

Game size

Small (prairie dogs) to large game (elk at close range)

140 grain effective range

2,700 feet per second up to 500 yards

Maintains supersonic speeds

1,150 yards

Cost

$1.30 to $2.25 per round on average

In addition to being cost effective, and ideal for hunting and sports, there’s no shortage of rifles that can handle the Creedmoor 6.5.  Some notable ones include:

  • Browning X Bolt
  • Sig Sauer Cross
  • Ruger Precision
  • Mossberg 500 Patriot Predator
  • Winchester XPR (oddly enough since this is a direct competitor to the 308)
  • Sako S20
  • Remington 700

The Top Uses

There’s some situations where the 6.5 Creedmoor is going to be your cartridge of choice.  This includes:

  • Long range target practice
  • Distance hunting
  • Medium size game in a 200 to 500 yard range
  • Shooting competitions instead of a .308
  • Anything that requires velocity and distance

When to Choose a Different Cartridge

But the 6.5 Creedmoor isn’t always a good choice.  For close range hunting, choose the .308 as the power and ballistics can neutralize the target which is especially important for predator hunting in 300 yard ranges.  You’ll also want to avoid the 6.5 Creedmoor for game like elk at close range, and instead choose the .30-06, 300 win mag, or .270.

For long distance, 6.5 is great, but in ultra long range distance competitions a .300 win mag or .338 Lapua will serve you better as the bullet drop will work to your advantage.  You should also avoid using 6.5 in extremely windy conditions and choose the .338 Lapua with more powder and weight will help keep the bullet on track to the target.

The 6.5 Creedmoor is a great cartridge for long range hunting and sports, and incredibly affordable.  That’s why it became popular and fast.

Myth: Motion Activated Lights Protect You from Burglary

Posted on by Josh Kinser
do motion activated security lights actually protect your home

Motion activated lights can absolutely deter some burglars from trying to enter your home at night, especially if it is clear you have cameras that are strong enough to record and identify a person, but in general motion activated security lights are likely not that effective.  This is because most burglaries happen between 6am and 6pm when burglars think nobody is at home and roughly 65% of them between 10am and 3pm while you’re at school or work.  

There are some types of home and property damage motion activated lights may help prevent including:

  • Neighborhood vandals or kids looking to play a prank
  • Trespassers
  • Entry point discovery if a burglar is scoping out a possible target
  • Deer and wildlife that get startled easily

Interesting fact: Burglaries are seasonal with more happening during summer months than winter.  

Burglars do not want to come in contact with other people as being caught in person is more likely going to lead to a physical confrontation.  The burglars simply want money, medications, and valuables they can sell for profit.  They likely do not want to have to fight or risk their own lives if you are armed.  

Because they’ll be entering during the day, the motion activated lights won’t be a deterrent on their own as the light won’t be visible.  If there is a camera that records the outside and inside of your home, this could be a deterrent as the perpetrator will be easier to identify.  Another deterrent may be a sticker for an alarm system and that you’re a member of a gun society or association.

When the intruder knows you’re probably armed, and that an alarm may go off if they try to enter thanks to the alarm logo, their lives are now at risk if the proceed.  This can also backfire as they may be armed and if they’re going to enter and risk their own lives, they’ll likely be expecting a fight if you’re home. 

This means you’ll need a gun safe that has quick and reliable access for these threat situations.  If you’re curious, here’s where burglars go first and the reasons why.

Motion activated lights can help scare off neighborhood vandals that may want to play a prank light toilet papering a tree or egging a door at night, or stop a deer from eating your garden, but they likely won’t stop a home intruder from breaking, so there are some benefits to having them.  

If having motion activated lights makes you feel more secure, then by all means add them.  A peace of mind is valuable, and they may help stop some situations so it doesn’t hurt to add them to your home.

The Glock 43X History, Fun Facts, and More

Posted on by Josh Kinser
The Glock 43X History, Fun Facts, and More

Released in July of 2019, the Glock 43X became one of the most sought after 9mm Luger (semi automatic) pistols in the USA for concealed carry due to its compact frame, 10 round capacity compared to the 6 of the Glock 43, and being easier to grip than the 43 due to the longer length of the handle. 

Being part of the Gen 5 series, the Glock 43X has an ambidextrous slide, a flared mag-well for easy reloading, and no finger grooves on the handle.  Not to mention a lighter feeling recoil due to the handle being easier to grip.  This makes it an easier to use and by more people helping it become popular almost overnight.

Glock 43X may be a snub nose with a barrel under 3.5 inches, but it is also highly accurate with an effective range at 25 yards as it has the marksman barrel design.  The shorter length with a slim frame makes it easy to hide in a holster almost anywhere on your body.  

The Glock 43X also rose to fame with the customizations, especially the art decals including 80’s and 90’s retro patterns, a famous jewelry store’s teal and silver coloring, and of course camo and military themes.  Price wise, it is affordable ranging between $400 for refurbished to $600 brand new. 

It may not have the 55’ range of the Glock 19, but who needs that when it is for self defense and when you can rebound more quickly when seconds matter.

Before you buy: The Glock 43X is not legal everywhere, so check with your local government before you buy.  There has been legislation in states like California where it may be currently banned as there is no microstamper on the firing pin to identify the gun owner.  

Now that you know why the Glock 43X became popular immediately after it hit the market, lets jump into the specs, how to determine if it is the right concealed carry firearm for you, and how it compares to similar pistols.

Glock 43X Specifications and Comparisons

 

Glock 43X

Glock 43

Glock 19

Barrel length

3.41”

3.41”

4.02”

Height

5.04”

4.25”

5.04”

Capacity

10

6

15 – 33

Weight (full magazine)

23.07oz

20.64oz

30.16oz (standard 15 cartridge magazine)

Caliber

9x19mm

9x19mm

9x19mm

Recoil (1 low 10 high)

5

6.5

4

Cost new (avg)

$450

$450

$500

Effective range

25 yards

25 yards

50 yards

What the Glock 43X is Good For

The Glock 43X is a perfect handgun for concealed carry and personal defense as it is under 3.5” in length, has a slender frame, and the light recoil that allows you to restabilize if you need to get another shot off.  Unlike the 43 which has a capacity of 6, the Glock 43X has a 10 cartridge magazine giving you more flexibility for a miss in a threat situation. 

The recoil on both the Glock 43 and 43X are similar, but the additional length of the grip makes it more easy to control which is why the Glock 43X feels like the recoil is lighter.  When seconds matter, keeping control of your firearm is vital and so are the extra rounds.  

Another reason we recommend Glock 43X for personal defense is for threat situations where hand-to-hand combat is unavoidable.  The additional length of the grip may give you a stronger hold with more control so you can maintain possession of the firearm and use it to ward off the threat.

These are the reasons why we recommend Glock 43X over the Glock 43 when it comes to concealed carry.  You’ll get plenty of distance as the effective range is 25 yards, and you have more control and more ammunition than other 9mm’s in a threat situation.

It may not be as famous as the Glock 19 which you’ll see in movies, TV, and music videos, but fame doesn’t mean function.  When you or the ones you love are in danger, you’re going to want a firearm that can protect, and the Glock 43X is a great option.

The Differences Between Centerfire and Rimfire

Posted on by Josh Kinser
The Differences Between Centerfire and Rimfire

The difference between a centerfire and rimfire cartridge is that centerfire cartridges have the primer in the center of the bullet’s base giving it higher velocity, more accuracy, and produces more recoil, and rimfire uses the outer ring of the base reducing recoil making it better for new shooters. 

Centerfire cartridges were invented before rimfire around 1808 by Jean Samuel Pauly with his design of a self contained design, and rimfire was invented in 1855 by Louis-Nicolas Flobert with his breech-loading pistol.  Something interesting to think about is that no new standard cartridge designs have become mainstream in close to 200 years.  This means there is still room for innovation in our industry.

Knowing the above, it sounds like centerfire cartridges are going to be the winner when choosing between them and rimfire.  But centerfire cartridges are more expensive than rimfire on average, and sometimes you don’t want that massive kick, like if you’re shooting for fun or practice.  There’s pros and cons for both cartridge types, and this guide will help you choose which one meets your needs.

 

Centerfire

Rimfire

Cost

More expensive

Less expensive

Skill level

Advanced

Beginner

Hunting small game

Yes, but not recommended

Yes

Hunting large game

Yes

No

Sports

Yes

No

Self defense (1 worst and 10 best)

8

4

Recoil

High

Low

Velocity

Higher

Lower

Duds per 100 cartridges

0 to 1

2

When to Choose Centerfire Over Rimfire

When accuracy matters, centerfire is better than rimfire as it can travel at higher velocities with a flat trajectory, and has a more condensed ballistic entry into the target.  This gives centerfire an advantage for hunting, long distance target shooting, and you can choose from multiple primer sizes letting you adjust the propellant and power of each shot.

It is easier and quicker to reload with centerfire than rimfire cartridges, so if you need to get more rounds off for personal defense, centerfire is what you want.  The accuracy and ease of loading the next rounds can make a huge difference when seconds matter. 

Although centerfire cartridges are more expensive than rimfire, they can be reused through a process called reloading where rimfire cannot, and this may save you some money.  But this is a skill that you need to develop over time, and reloading centerfire takes a long time.

When to Use Rimfire Instead of Centerfire

Newer hunters and people to shooting sports will want to choose rimfire cartridges over centerfire as the recoil is lighter so they can get used to shooting and adapt their way in.   Rimfire is also cheaper so the person can get more practice in while spending less. 

Reloading the centerfire ammo is an advanced technique, tricky, and time consuming, so the money being saved by shooting rimfire is better for people who just want to shoot and get on with their day.

For young hunters on a camping trip with their family, rimfire weighs less than centerfire and the cartridges are smaller.  Because you have to carry everything you use on the trip, each ounce and centimeter matters making rimfire a better choice in these situations.

No firearm is quiet, unless it has silencers, but rimfire cartridges tend to be quieter than centerfire so they are better for beginners that have not adjusted to the noise levels or situations where louder noises should be avoided.

Both centerfire and rimfire cartridges have a time and place, and we hope this helps you know when to choose one over the other based on your needs.

How to Prep and Cook a Wild Turkey – Easy Instructions

Posted on by Josh Kinser
Easy Instructions for How to Prep and Cook a Wild Turkey

Ready to prepare your first wild turkey?  Don’t stress if you’ve read the stories online about how difficult it is. 

With a bit of preparation you can cook a meal that is Thanksgiving worthy from a bird you hunted.  Let’s start with the differences between wild turkeys and store bought, and then how to prepare the wild one once you know what to expect.

 

Wild Turkey

Farm Raised

Size

15 – 25 lbs

Male 41 lbs and Female 17 lbs

Taste

Gamey, chewy, intense

Moist, tender, juicy

Cook time (oven unstuffed)

13 minutes per pound

20 minutes per pound

Cook time (deep frying)

4 minutes per pound

3 to 4 minutes per pound

Collagen and muscle

More

Less

Flavor

Changes based on natural diet

Consistent as they’re fed controlled diets

The good news is that you can cook a wild caught turkey the same way that you cook farm raised and store bought.  Both need to be cooked to at least 165 degrees in order to be safe to consume, and both fry at roughly 3 to 4 minutes per pound.  Wild and store bought turkeys can also be prepared the same way with your favorite seasonings, stuffing or dressing, and herbs.  But that is where the similarities between wild and farm raised turkeys end.

Wild turkeys live in forests so their diets change based on the food available like leafy greens or flower buds in the spring and hearty acorns or crabapples and insects that become available in the fall.  This changes the flavor of the meat with most people preferring the fall diet as the turkeys are eating insects which provide them with protein.  Studies like this one show that turkeys who eat insects retain more water which makes them easier to cook.

Wild turkeys are much smaller than farm raised, so if you’re used to starting the oven 6 hours before guests arrive, get ready to take some time back because the more muscular meat and smaller size reduce the cooking times so you have more time to relax or get the side dishes ready.  

The reason the meat is leaner and has more muscle is that wild turkeys have to hunt, travel, and defend themselves where farm turkeys relax in protected environments so they do not have to work their muscles as often.  You’ll also find there is more dark meat on wild turkeys than farm raised for this same reason, and as Live Science puts it, farm raised turkeys are too fat to fly.

Now you know the differences between cooking a wild turkey from a store bought or farm raised one and why you’ll need to adjust your schedule.  The good news is you’ll likely be saving some time and get tastier meat in the fall.  If you’re planning on hunting your first wild turkey, click here to read our top picks for turkey hunting shotguns, and come back to share how your meal turned out.

Turkey Hunting Shotgun Recommendations for All Levels

Posted on by Josh Kinser
the best shotguns for turkey hunting at all skill levels

Hunting thanksgiving dinner is a time honored tradition for some families, especially if they know how to properly prepare and cook a wild turkey, and the trophies are perfect decor for man caves and wall mounts if the plumage isn’t damaged.  

Turkey hunting gives you quality time with family, bonding time with a daughter or son, and buddy time for fall and winter making it an ideal sport across 49 states in the USA with multiple species including Hawaii where wild turkeys were introduced in 1815.

The five species of wild turkey in the USA include:

  • Eastern Turkey (long beard) – is the most populous and is the one we see in ads, parade floats, and has been made iconic by Thanksgiving.
  • Rio Grande – this species is very similar to the Eastern but a bit smaller and in states like Oklahoma only live closer to the eastern border.
  • Merriam’s Turkey – if you’re looking for a stunner, this species is adorned with a bright red wattle, white tipped and striped plumage, and lives across the wild west from Arizona and New Mexico, up through Nebraska, and into South Dakota.
  • Osceola – Named after Seminole Chief Oscela, this turkey species is smaller and darker, and the plumage resembles an iridescent blue and red like the reflective colors of an oil slick.
  • Gould’s – it may be the largest of the turkeys in the United States, but the Gould’s turkey has the smallest population due to overhunting. In the 1990’s conservation efforts began and the population is slowly increasing in its habitat mainly in Arizona and New Mexico.

Now that you know the native species, let’s “hunt” for the right shotgun to help you do the least damage to the trophy, enjoy the most of your experience, and save as much meat as possible if you are ready to attempt cooking a wild turkey.  We have three shotguns for turkey hunting to choose from including our all-around top choice, one for beginners, and one for advanced enthusiasts.

Best Turkey Shotgun for All Skill Levels

Why we choose the Mossberg 835 Ulti-Mag Turkey as the best:

  • Accuracy
  • Ballistics and trophy/meat protection
  • Price
  • Ammo match: Federal Heavyweight TSS 3″

Our top pick for the best overall shotgun for turkey hunting is the Mossberg 835 Ulti-Mag Turkey as it gives you the pump action you crave when hunting with a tighter ballistic pattern via the 24” barrel to help keep the trophy intact and meat accessible if you’re cooking the bird.  The chamber holds shells between 2.75” to 3.5” so you can adjust the recoil and amount of shot to your personal preference.  

The capacity of 5+1 is ample for turkey hunting, but you unfortunately cannot fire slugs from this model.  And just like Turkey’s that live across the US, deer do as well and this particular model can work for both.  Coming in between $270 to $650 depending on the condition, used or new, and customizations, it is an affordable option and readily available with retailers.  

Best for Beginners

Why we choose the Stevens 301 Turkey XP as the best for beginners:

  • Lightweight and easy to carry and maneuver
  • Low recoil so it’s easy to handle
  • Very low cost and investment
  • Ammo match: Winchester Longbeard XR 3″

For new turkey hunters, the Stevens 301 Turkey XP is our go to as its 26” barrel will help with accuracy as you develop your skills and keep the impact site more intact.  Sometimes known as “kitchen door” guns, it is a single action shotgun which is more cost-effective coming in between $200 and $250 on average if you decide hunting is not for you.  

If you decide to keep it and you live in rural areas, it can be used for home-defense when a target is at a distance.  The firearm is lighter in weight even though it has a longer barrel than other shotguns because there is no magazine, and this makes it easier to carry if you have to hike through the woods or a distance. 

Best of all recoil is minimal so you can get accustomed to firing shotguns and work your way up to more advanced options like the Mossberg pump-action series.  It’s light recoil, cost-effectiveness, accuracy, and weight are why the Stevens 301 Turkey XP is our number one shotgun for beginners going turkey hunting.

Advanced Hunters and Sports Enthusiasts

The reason we choose the TriStar Viper G2 for the best advanced option because it:

  • Is semi-automatic, break-action, and fun to shoot.
  • Has the look and feel of a high-end shotgun, but comes at an amazing price point. 
  • Is versatile enough for shooting clays, water fowl, and turkey hunting.
  • Ammo match: Hevi-18 TSS 3″

Ready to have some fun?  The TriStar Viper G2 is for experienced hunters, markspeople, and anyone looking for a versatile gun that comes in between $450 and $650 for the base model, depending on new or used, but looks like a $1,000+ shotgun.  

This 12 gauge, gas powered, semi-automatic shotgun will carry you from sports shooting to hunting, and it breaks down easily when you’re ready to clean and oil it.  The recoil can take a bit of time to adjust to, but you can customize it to your liking with a different recoil pad.

It is lightweight, but takes time to adjust to.  Since you’re advanced, you should settle in at no time and hit your stride pretty quickly as it is designed for performance.

These are our top picks when it comes to turkey hunting and shotguns.  If you have a favorite, share it below in the comments.

Waterproofing Does Not Matter on Gun Safes – It’s Hype

Posted on by Josh Kinser
waterproof ratings on gun safes do not matter

Gun safes do not need to be waterproof to be effective and protect your firearms, and being waterproof likely will not protect your guns from water damage as the main cause would either be a natural flood that can take days until it is safe for you to return home, or a fire where the sprinklers or fire hoses flooded your home. In addition to water, heat damage may already have occurred.  Waterproof ratings on gun safes are nothing more than marketing hype the same way that fire proof ratings on gun safes no longer matter.

100 years ago fires would engulf a home and burn it to the ground.  The intense heat would warp metal and destroy firearms which is why fireproof ratings used to be important.  Waterproofing plays off of irrational fears, and these fears enable safe manufacturers to charge more money through marketing hype.

In fact there is no industry standard for waterproofing or ratings on gun safes.  Each company can assign, test, and name their own.  There was a legitimate need for fire ratings at one point, so two trusted third parties became industry standards, waterproofing has never been a legitimate concern which is why there aren’t any for this need.  Let’s jump in and myth bust a bit.

It starts with some facts that marketers use to convince you to buy a waterproof gun safe at a premium price by making it sound like a “necessity”:

  • 90% of natural disasters involve flooding and 1 inch of flood water can cause $27,000 in damage
  • Floods can occur within minutes, and do not need to take days or weeks to cause damage.  And only a few inches of rain can cause damaging floods according to the NSSL NOAA National Severe Storms Laboratory (NOAA). 
  • After a severe flood it could be days or weeks before it is safe to return home, and that means your safe can be submerged and have moisture leaked in causing mold and corrosion to begin before you can stop it.

The Depth and Time Numbers on the Rating

The depth and time numbers on a waterproof rating represent how long the safe is supposed to protect the contents inside when it is fully submerged, and at a maximum depth of water.  If your safe says 60 minutes at 48 inches, you have 1 hour of protection in 4 feet of water.  72 hours at 36 inches would be 3 days in 3 feet of water.

This sounds good, and chances are the safe will hold up, but what would a real life situation look like?  The time before you can return back home after a large fire that has flooding or a natural disaster with flood waters will depend on:

  • Structural damage
  • Contamination
  • Mold
  • The materials your home is built with
  • Potential threats like electricity being ruled out by local officials including the fire department and FEMA in severe cases

In many cases it could be weeks before it is safe to return home, and floods can easily last for weeks.  If you’re in an area that had storm surges, dams break, ice melting or rain causing rivers to offer flow, chances are you won’t be home in time to get the safe out of the water.  And that goes to our next point.

Safes Need Ventilation

Most safes need ventilation to help prevent corrosion from damaging your firearms.  Rusting and corrosion can start instantly as it only takes water and oxygen.  Even if rust doesn’t start, mold can begin growing in as little as 24 hours according to FEMA.  Ventilation can leak water in during a flood, and even if there’s no visible signs of rust immediately, mold may have started as the moisture, air, and temperature could be a perfect growing scenario.

We mention mold because mold can also cause corrosion which can spread to or begin on your firearms so they begin corroding.  Unless your safe is airtight, which means you have to ventilate it manually, chances are some water may seep in and begin the process, especially when your home has flooding.

Is the Safe in Your Basement or Upstairs?

One of the most important things to think about before splurging on a water proof gun safe is where the safe will be located.  If it’s in your basement, there’s more chance of a flood than in your bedroom on the second floor of your home. 

If your gun safes are for protection and upstairs or raised, you’ve reduced the chances of them being under water in a non-severe flood, or one that drains quickly.

Check Your Flood Risk Levels

You can have a flood map survey done to see the potential for rising water levels.  You’ll get the flood plains mapped out and discover some of your major potential risk factors.  Another way to determine your risk of a flood is to talk to your home insurance company.

Not a fan of the phone, no problem!  Look at title records to see if any floods have occurred and they may include the height of the water.  You cannot predict the future, but you can plan for it and see if the height of where your gun safe is located and when it may be exposed to long periods under water in a worst case situation.

Flood ratings and waterproofing on gun safes are more myth than reality, it’s a way to get you to spend more for a “peace of mind” that will likely not be helpful in the event of a major disaster.  If spending extra money for that feeling of security is within your budget, go for it.   

In reality, you’re fine without waterproofing on your gun safe, because if a situation were to arise that it would be underwater, there are multiple other factors outside of waterproofing that will come into play, and no safe will keep your guns safe when these happen.

Mossberg 500 – It’s a Series, Not a Make and Model

Posted on by Josh Kinser
mossberg 500

When you see an abbreviation or name and a number it normally stands for the maker of the firearm and the model number.  AR-15 is ArmaLite and the 15 model, and Glock 9 which is the ninth edition of the Glock pistol.  

Mossberg’s incredibly popular 500 however is a series and not the 500th version of the design, even though they’ve been designing rifles for over 100 years.  500 would be impressive considering the Mossberg 500 pump-action shotgun series did not come out until August of 1962.

A series of guns is similar to a series of cars in that the base is the same, but each is modified for a specific use or purpose.  You have a standard Ford Mustang, then a Mach 1, the Shelby, a convertible, EcoBoost, etc… Each one has the essence and core of the standard model, but designed with features that cater to a specific need or market audience.

The Mossberg 500 series is the same in that it has the main features, feel, and control of one of the most loved pump-action shotguns, and it is customized into four standard variations including:

  • 500® FLEX
  • 500® FIELD
  • 500® ATI® TACTICAL
  • 500® FIELD COMBOS

Each of these variations serves a different purpose, and knowing these differences will provide you with a better experience as you use it.  And we have a feeling that once you give them a try at a range, you’ll be ready to purchase one for your personal armory.  Not to mention they look incredible on a gun wall which is why they’re featured often in tv and films.  We share some movie and tv appearances below.

Here’s a quick table with the core specs and differences to help you figure out which Mossberg 500 is right for your needs.  Then we share a bit more detail for each variation below.

 

500® Flex

500® Field

500® ATI® Tactical

500® Field Combos

Barrel length

22” – 28”

20” – 28”

18.5”

22” – 24”

Recoil

Light

Light to Medium

Medium

Medium

Hunting (seasons)

Deer, waterfowl, and all purpose

Turkey and all purpose

Home Defense

Deer, Turkey, Waterfowl

Home defense (1 – 10 scale)

5

5

8

5

Gauge

12 and 20

12, 20, and .410

12

12 and 20

Capacity (standard)

5+1

5+1 

5+1

5+1

Cost (used to new)

$350 – $700

$400 – $1,000

$750

$600 – $800

500® FLEX

This is the ultimate multi-purpose pump-action shotgun of the series in that it has a light recoil and versatile gauges ranging from 12 – 20 making it fun for practice at a range and for hunting in the field.  It’s the lowest cost out of the series making the 500® Flex an affordable option for new enthusiasts, and allows them to train and learn to shoot like a pro.

It is long so it isn’t as ideal for home defense situations as you’ll want stealth and the ability to angle and aim while turning corners, so go with the ATI® TACTICAL option if that is one of the uses you’d like this firearm for.

500® FIELD

With a versatile barrel length ranging between 20″ and 28”, an easy to handle recoil, and reasonable price point for a used or basic model, you’re going to love hunting with the 500® FIELD from Mossberg.  It’s an all purpose pump-action shotgun that works for most game as it can handle 12, 20, and .410 gauges and works for everything from turkey to deer.

It is on the pricier side if you want all the whistles and bells, and just like the FLEX, it is not ideal for home defense situations.  However if you’re in a rural area and the threat is far enough away, this could do the job, but is nowhere near as good as other shotguns for home defense purposes.

500® ATI® TACTICAL

Having a barrel length at 18.5”, a 12 gauge capacity, medium recoil, and a reasonable price at roughly $750, the 500® ATI® TACTICAL is your home defense and personal defense pump-action shotgun from the Mossberg 500 series.  It is lightweight, accurate, and as the name states, made for tactical use.

We do not recommend it for hunting compared to the FIELD or COMBOS variation, but you could do well at a range shooting for sport.  It is a tactical weapon so use it for defense and sport shooting.

500® FIELD COMBOS

When you can’t decide which option from the Mossberg 500 pump-action series to choose from, get the combo.  It isn’t ideal for home defense, but as the name implies it is a combination of the best features from each of the models. 

You can use it for hunting deer and turkey, practice at a range, and has the flexibility of both 12 and 20 gauges.  The price point is in the middle of the other three lines ranging from $600 to $800 on average making it an affordable firearm.

If you need it for home defense, this is not as ideal as the TACTICAL option even though they have a similar recoil because the barrel length is longer.  And it won’t have as much velocity as some of the Field variations which can have an extra 4” of barrel length if that is important to you.

Now that you know how to shop for the right Mossberg 500 pump-action shotgun, here’s some movies, tv shows, and fun facts to get you excited for its arrival.

The Crow (1994 version) has a Mossberg 500 in the pawn shop with a Mariner finish, and you can see two of them in Point Break three years before as two of the members in Bodhi’s gang carry them.  Predator, one of the ultimate classic films, features a Mossberg 500 with Billy carrying it along with an M16.  

Ready for the holidays, the Mossberg 500 shotguns are featured in Halloween (2018) and Harry and Kumar 3D holiday special.  And speaking of specials, remember the classic 1987 movie Harry and the Hendersons featuring a big foot?  Now’s the time to rewatch as Jacque Laleur has a Mossberg 500AT.

There’s a reason you’ll see Mossberg 500 pump-action shotguns in movies and hunting films, it’s because it is a trustworthy and reliable option, and looks great.  It’s reliability is one of the reasons it is used by militaries including the US Marines, Army, and Navy, and international defensive forces like Guardia Civil in Spain.

If you found this guide to the Mossberg 500 pump-action shot gun series helpful, join our newsletter list for more content just like it below.

The Snub Nose .38, Is it Good for Concealed Carry?

Posted on by Josh Kinser
the snub nose 38 and concealed carry for self defense

A snub nose revolver, also known as the .38 special, saturday night special, snubbie, and bulldog revolver, is any revolver that is less than 3 inches in length making it easy to store on your body undetected.  The compact size of this revolver combined with variations that have an internal hammer are why people choose a snub nose .38 as their concealed carry weapon of choice for personal defense.  

Its size makes it easy to carry concealed, and the lack of an external hammer reduces the chance of it getting snagged on your clothes when you need fast access in a threat situation.

Although the barrel is short, the frame can range from small to large and you can find snub nose 38’s from most major manufacturers including:

  • Ruger
  • Smith & Wesson
  • Colt
  • Charter Arms
  • Kimber
  • Taurus

Fun fact: The .38 special was designed in 1898 and the 45 acp in 1904 making them similar in age and both created for military use and later on personal defense.  And both are considered great choices for concealed carry firearms.

With all these manufacturers and pop culture with features in Bugsy, Drugstore Cowboy, and the Original Charlie’s Angels driving demand, you’d think the snubbie is a perfect choice for self defense, but it may not be.  

 

The 38 special is normally compared to the 45 acp which is why we mentioned the fun fact above, but they are not the same.  This is why it is important to test both before deciding which to choose for concealed carry, because in a threat situation you want accuracy and speed.  

A revolver like the 38 special is easier to hide than a 45 acp, but will have limited rounds compared to the semi-automatic pistol.  So if your accuracy is not as good in a threat situation, the additional cartridges will be handy.  A 45 acp is going to pack more of a punch on the threat and will likely have less recoil than a snubbie.  

The 45 is slightly harder to conceal if you’re petite.  The most important thing is to practice and be prepared so if the unfortunate situation where you need a defensive firearm happens, you’ll be ready.  But don’t let these couple of paragraphs stop you from choosing a snub nose .38 for self defense, the snubbie has a long history of protective uses with law enforcement which is why some call it “the detectives gun”, and not just because the manufacturer’s like Colt have a model nicknamed “Detective Special”.

As you learned above, the snub nose .38 was original for the military, and the Smith & Wesson “Military and Police” model became a standard issue after world war 1 when it proved to be highly efficient, and remained standard issue for close to 70 years after.  Tons of firearm innovation and technology occurred during these decades, so if the snubbie was not good for self defense, it had lots of opportunities to be replaced.  And if it had been, we wouldn’t have had quotes about the “saturday night special” specific to firearms in action and suspense tv and movie scenes.

The snub nose .38 is a good choice for self defense when it comes to concealed carry.  The most important thing is you train and practice in case a threat situation occurs.  It may turn out that the snubbie is the best option for you.

Wrapping Foil on Your Doorknob Does Not Work

Posted on by Josh Kinser
Wrapping Foil on Your Doorknob Does Not Work

Wrapping foil around your doorknob is not going to stop a burglar from entering your home.  It may protect the doorknob if it is antique and you’re painting or staining the door, but painters tape would be a better solution.  

The myth about tin or aluminum foil on the doorknob stopping a burglary is based on rumors where people claim:

  • If the foil is ripped or has fallen someone tried to access your home and may return.
  • You can locate fingerprints or DNA and identify the potential intruder if they aren’t wearing gloves.
  • The noise can alert a dog or animal and they can wake you at night or scare the intruder off.

Each of these theories has merit, but they also have flaws.  For example wind and weather can knock foil off a doorknob, especially if you wrap it while you’re on vacation.  And many homes have motion sensor lights that go on so the intruder would see the foil on the doorknob and leave the foil alone.  But that doesn’t mean they’ll leave your house alone, they may try a window instead.  

As for fingerprints, unless you’re changing the foil each time you go in and out, and the burglar does not wear gloves or pockets the foil, you’re not going to get fingerprints.  There was an interesting study done with gloves and DNA where they simulated break ins to an office with and without gloves.  The goal was to try and recover DNA samples, and you can learn more here.  It is a lot harder to gather DNA from a doorknob than you’d think.  

The third talking point could have merit.  Dogs have incredibly sensitive ears, and they can likely pick up on the noise.  This article from Newsweek has multiple reasons dogs don’t like foil, and one expert they cite shares it is the noise when it crinkles. 

You could try to train your dog to respond and wake you up when the foil is crumpled or makes noise, but a lot of factors could trigger this and you’ll be getting woken up regularly.  And if your dog hates the noise, you’re going to be causing them stress that is not needed.

Although foil on your doorknob is not going to protect you, you can do a few things that may help buy you time so that you can access your firearm and protect yourself from a threat situation.

  • Motion sensor lighting can deter some burglars prowling at night.  You’ll see many city and state government websites recommend this as one line of defense like Macon County Georgia where they also tie in noise and time, Houston Texas, and Seattle Washington. 
  • Alarm systems can deter some burglars, and Newport News has a tip that may help.  They recommend you do not advertise which system you have as some home intruders will know how to disarm specific ones.
  • Dogs barking can scare off intruders as the barking could wake you up, and the intruder does not want a close encounter with a person who may be a better fighter or properly armed for self defense.  
  • Cameras, including doorbell cameras, have been known to reduce package theft, and may be helping to lower burglary rates in neighborhoods where houses are equipped with them according to this article on the DOJ website about doorbell cameras.

If none of the above deter a threat situation, make sure you have a gun safe that is easy to open in your bedroom, or a quick access gun safe hidden so you can get your firearm for the worst case situation, needing to use it.

The thought of a home intruder is not a fun one, and unfortunately wrapping foil on your doorknob likely won’t deter them.  It’s more myth than fact.  But now you have other ways that are recommended to protect your loved ones and your home.

Corrosion Can Impact Guns in a Gun Safe

Posted on by Josh Kinser

Corrosion in a gun safe happens because of the materials used to construct the lining between the metal walls, the carpeting on the floor and shelves, and other chemicals that go into the construction.  With that said, all gun safes can corrode if not properly cleaned and stored, just like guns rust and the rust can be removed from the gun.  

Some good news, rust cannot spread from one metal to another.  But if one metal is rusting or corroding, the cause of the corrosion will likely impact other similar metals, and that is why you want to treat the cause of corrosion the minute it is detected.  If the safe is corroding, you can expect your guns to start rusting too.

When guns corrode they become hazards as the barrel can weaken, the bolt and receiver may get damaged, and there is a risk for an explosion if pressure cannot be released properly and propel the cartridge forward. 

This is why it is important to check your gun safe for corrosion just like you check your guns for rust.  And this starts with knowing what to look for by understanding the main causes of corrosion, and proper care.  

The Cause of Gun Safe Corrosion

There are four culprits when it comes to chemical reactions that corrode a gun safe.

  • Formaldehyde (CH2O): Used in drywall manufacturing, formaldehyde is a dispersing agent in drywall slurry. These agents vaporize in your safe, creating a potentially caustic environment for metal and wood. Formaldehyde is also present in the adhesive used for carpet interiors and causes significant corrosion, with a corrosion rate over 1.0 mm/year in carbon steel. 
  • Elemental Sulfur (S): Found in drywall, particularly from China, sulfur reacts with humidity to form hydrogen sulfide and sulfuric acid. The acid attacks metals differently, but in the end it is about corrosion. 

    Carbon steel for example has some protection as it forms     hydrogen gas and ferrous ions forming a protective layer on the safe, while stainless steel’s protection is dependent on the temperature and concentration level of the acid.
    how sulfur changes to sulfuric acid and corrodes a gun safe
  • Pyrite (Iron Sulfide): Common in gypsum, pyrite reacts with oxygen and water to form iron oxide-hydroxide (rust) and sulfuric acids. Pyrite in drywall can lead to rapid gun rust. 
    how pyrite changes to sulfuric acid to corrode metals and gun safes
  • Ferrooxidans Bacteria: This metal-eating bacteria lives on the pyrite in drywall, breaking it down into iron hydroxide and sulfur-based acids. The bacteria can also consume other metals, exacerbating corrosion. 

As you can see this is a metal gun safe issue, it is literally from the inside out.  It is also why you don’t always see concerns about gun safe corrosion in wood and glass display cabinets, or the old shotgun above the fireplace.  Although moisture in general can lead to rusting, these storage and display types have different types of corrosion problems.

How to Detect Gun Safe Corrosion

Spotting corrosion in your gun safe is easy when you know what to look for including:

  • A sulfur (earthy) smell once you open the door or get close
  • Rust inside or on the outside
  • Discoloration of the materials and metal

Why Gun Safes Use Materials That Cause Corrosion

If you’re wondering why a gun safe manufacturer would use these materials knowing they can cause corrosion, the answer is simple.  It’s cheaper and lighter.

Traditional safes are based on the original Silas Herring design and used thick outer steel, thin inner steel, and plaster or cement in the middle. This design was abandoned in the 1980s in favor of cheaper, lighter materials. The result is the modern gun safe: a thin-walled steel box lined with drywall and carpeted over.

When these changes occurred UL (Underwriters Laboratories) created a new classification. Class RSC–Residential Security Container. The RSC is the standard gun safe sold in most stores throughout America.

If you have purchased a gun safe made after 1980 it is most likely a UL Class RSC. It is drywall based and subject to all the corrosion issues above. Your best defense against corrosion is still well-cleaned and well-lubricated firearms combined with proper gun safe care. 

Pro-tip: Open the door regularly and let your safe air out. This will reduce the corrosive sulfur compound buildup. Dehumidifiers slow the process by lowering humidity, but they don’t stop it.

How to Prevent Corrosion in a Gun Safe

The first thing to do is avoid buying gun safes with drywall or carpeting. Instead, consider safes that follow the Herring double-walled steel design, offering better security and modest fire protection. However, these safes are expensive, starting at around $6,000. 

Alternatively, steel cabinets can be a viable option. They provide similar security and fire protection as drywall-based gun safes but without as many of the corrosion issues. Smaller, modular steel cabinets offer flexibility and can be easily secured throughout a home, providing quick access in emergencies. 

You may also want to try a vented gun safe. This style is designed with ventilation systems that allow for better air circulation, significantly reducing humidity levels inside the safe. 

By lowering humidity, the risk of moisture-induced corrosion is minimized. Additionally, vented gun safes help in dissipating harmful gasses and vapors that can emanate from materials like drywall and carpet adhesives. The controlled environment ensures that the internal atmosphere remains less corrosive, thereby extending the lifespan of your firearms. 

Corrosion is an issue that impacts gun safes, and when they are impacted the guns inside are likely at risk too.  This is why you want to check your safe regularly for any signs of corrosion and invest in a properly built safe using the Silas Herring design if corrosion is a concern.  And you can shop our selection of gun safes built to keep your “guns safe”.

Corrosion Can Impact Guns in a Gun Safe

The Differences With Automatic & Semi-automatic Rifles

Posted on by Josh Kinser
The Differences With Automatic & Semi-automatic Rifles

Both automatic and semi-automatic rifles hold multiple rounds of cartridges and fire quickly since they both reload automatically after they fire, but they are not the same as semi-automatic rifles like the AR-15 or Ruger 10/22 only fire a single cartridge when the trigger is pulled, and automatic rifles like the AK-47 and M16 fire continuously in one pull.  The automatic firing of bullets until the trigger is released is the main difference between automatic and semi-automatic firearms. 

The two types of rifles have similarities as well, and this is why some people confuse them.  Both can hold multiple cartridges with semi-automatic rifles normally maxing out at 10, and automatic rifles like the Colt AR-15 having 30 rounds and the Lewis gun coming in at 97 rounds.  The naming can also be confusing where some people assume the AR in AR-15 means “automatic rifle” but it actually stands for the manufacturer, ArmaLite and Rifle.

Automatic and semi-automatic rifles can be stored in the same type of long gun safes, and both can benefit from modular gun safes like our Agile™ line with configurations that allow you to protect accessories like scopes.  And both are not classified by size as some automatic rifles like the M4 are carbine models meaning they’re a bit shorter than a typical long gun.

Outside of mechanics, there is another similarity in semi automatic and automatic rifles in that both can be considered “assault” weapons.  Both are outlawed in certain states, and other states allow them or specific models as each state can assign their own definitions and choose which firearms are permitted.  And this applies to bump stocks which can be used to make a semi automatic rifle mimic the capabilities of an automatic rifle.

As a responsible gun owner, it’s important to know the differences and each state law as you don’t want to wind up in trouble for having a banned weapon.  We hope you found this guide to the differences between automatic and semi automatic rifles helpful, and if you did, enter your email below for more guides like it.

Some Revolvers are Pistols, But Not all Pistols Revolve

Posted on by Josh Kinser
the difference between pistols and revolvers

Outside of the revolving chamber that gives revolvers their name, there are a few main differences between revolvers and pistols like the amount of recoil you’ll feel, and the chamber capacity which is beneficial for self defense that make them different.  These differences will help you determine which type of handgun is the right one for your needs.  

Fun fact: The first version of a revolver was created in the 15th century and was known as a hand canon.

If you’re using the ATF’s definition, pistols are any form of handgun where the cartridges are not contained in a revolving chamber.  An industry standard definition for revolvers would be the opposite of a pistol where the cartridges are held and loaded from a rotating chamber. 

Outside of the definitions, here’s some more similarities and differences between them.

Both pistols and revolvers are good for self defense, but in different situations.  If you’re an outdoors enthusiast, a revolver won’t give you enough rounds to stop or deter a bear or a wild boar as larger prey will likely need a rifle.  But to be fair, no handgun is going to fully neutralize a bear.  There are handguns that are better for defense against bears though.

Revolvers have six cartridges giving them the name six shooter, where a Glock could have 17 or more bullets giving you additional resources to slow down or deter the threat.

You could make the argument that a revolver can handle a larger caliber bullet, but that comes with extra recoil and bears can charge at speeds over 20mph.  This includes the Grizzly bear which has the ability to charge at 35 mph and maintain speeds up to 28 miles per hour over a 2 mile stretch.  That is faster than the average domestic horse!

If you live in an urban or suburban area and your hands are smaller, it may be harder to charge the slide on a standard pistol.  The difficulty in charging the slide may prevent you from getting rounds off in time where it may be easier to fire the second shot from the revolver, but this depends on the specific firearm you carry and your experience with it.  

If you run out of ammo, it’s going to be faster and easier to reload a magazine than popping the bullets out of a revolver.  When seconds and rounds matter, the pistol wins over the revolver.

Revolvers are heavier and have more recoil than pistols, and this makes them less appealing than a pistol for self defense.  But when it comes to larger and heavier ammo, the revolver is going to pack a punch as they are designed to handle this.  

The two are fairly similar in accuracy as accuracy is more dependent on the barrel length.  But recoil also impacts accuracy for the second shot, so the pistol will beat the revolver in self defense situations where your hands may be more shaky and you’re feeling nervous.  The need to recover from a recoil could cost you precious seconds.

If the firearm is for show or fun, like shooting targets on a ranch or for general concealed carry, revolvers are great.  They’re iconic pieces of firearm history and pop culture.  And revolvers tend to be less expensive than pistols, so you could save some money if that is a deciding factor for you. 

Both pistols and revolvers are storable in a standard handgun safe, so there is no difference with regards to storage, but there is with maintenance.

Revolvers have a simpler design and that makes them easier to clean than a pistol.  You still have to strip both firearms down, but you’ll save a bit of time with your revolver, not much, but a bit.

Here’s how we recommend choosing between the two if you’re shopping.  Both can work for multiple purposes, but as you’ve learned above, they have slight advantages in certain situations.

 

Pistol

Revolver

Defense in the wilderness

X

 

Defense in urban settings

 

X

Self Defense in general

X

 

Has less recoil

X

 

Fun and sport

 

X

Price

 

X

Either way you go, both pistols and revolvers can work for self defense and target practice.  Pistols tend to have the upper hand when it comes to defense when compared to revolvers, which is why pistols are the preferred firearm for law enforcement. If you found this guide helpful, join our newsletter by entering your email below for more content like it.

The Ruger 10/22 Rifle – A Worthy Investment for Sports

Posted on by Josh Kinser
The Ruger 10/22 Rifle

If you like rimfire rifles that are built to last, and are semi automatic, the Ruger 10/22 is your new go-to!  Since hitting the market in 1964, this American made firearm from the Sturm, Ruger & Co. has been in continuous production as a low cost carbine rifle for sports shooting and self defense.  

Although some may use it to hunt, rimfire cartridges do not carry as much power as centerfire.  This is why rimfire rifles may be banned in certain areas for hunting, especially medium to large game.  They are not as effective at neutralizing the target quickly making them unethical for use when hunting.

Why the Ruger 10/22 is So Popular

The standard carbine model can normally be found online for under $300 for the base model, and there are numerous third parties that produce customizations, upgrades, and enhancements like barrels, magazines, and the machined receiver for more accuracy which is vital when using the 10/22 for sports.  Because the 10/22 is a semi automatic carbine, it is easier to carry and maneuver than a standard semi automatic rifle or musket making it more ideal for the military.

Ruger 10/22 Specs

Caliber

.22 long rifle

Capacity

10 on the base rotary magazine model and 25 on a high capacity magazine

Effective Range

25 – 300 yards

Barrel Length

18.5

Total Length

37

Weight

5lbs

Firing

Rimfire

Recoil

Low

Disassembly

Considered simple since the takedown model was introduced in 2012

With its low recoil, readily available upgrades, steady weight, and price point, it’s no wonder sports enthusiasts love this firearm.  But they’re not the only ones. 

The Ruger 10/22 has been featured in pop culture across tv, music, and movies, and is standard issue by some of the world’s most elite military and law enforcement agencies.

Pop Culture and Military Uses of The Ruger 10/22

To name a few, here’s some of the militaries that use or have used the Ruger 10/22:

  • Israeli Defense Forces (IDF)
  • Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) 
  • Brazilian Military Police
  • Peruvian National Police 
  • Guatemalan Military

And you’ll find the Ruger 10/22 rifle in the following movies and TV shows according to IMFDB:

  • Picasso Trigger (1988) – Taryn is seen with a customized model.
  • Halloween (2007) – On the gun racks in the store.
  • The Walking Dead (2010) – There is a Ruger 10/22 in the armory.
  • Top Shot (2011) – In season 3 episode 7 you’ll find a tricked out 10/22.

The Ruger 10/22 is not going anywhere as it has become a standard for sports shooters and military combat due to its low cost to purchase, accuracy and size, as well as ability to be customized.  If you found this guide interesting join our newsletter below for more like it.

The Fire Rating on Your Gun Safe Doesn’t Matter

Posted on by Josh Kinser
gun safe fire ratings don't matter

The fire ratings on gun safes are not a measure of security or protection, they are a measure of how much drywall or filler is loaded in between the metal outside and the inside of your gun safe.  The filler material does not effectively stop a burglar from cutting the safe, only the type of metal and the quality of the material does.  

The time and number on the fire rating are how much time the safe can last at a specific temperature before the inside gets over 350 degrees Fahrenheit.  So if you see 2 hours (120 minutes) at 2,000 then your safe will in theory protect the contents inside for up to two hours at a fire burning 2,000 degrees. And although this sounds great, it isn’t very relevant anymore.

If your home is on fire and it is hot enough to melt a safe, your guns will be warped and not salvageable.  This was an issue in the early 1900’s when firefighters were not able to get to the home in a timely manner.  That’s why two fire rating companies formed, there was a need back then.  We go over this a bit later below.

In modern times, fire response teams are more efficient and the chances of your home burning to the ground or being on fire long enough to impact your gun safe are next to zero.  

Home fires are still very common, but response times from the fire departments are fast.  There are also a ton of products that you can purchase to put a fire out before it spreads which have reduced the amount of homes burning to the ground.  Here’s a graph from the US Fire Administration showing recent declines from 2013 to 2022.

trend of residential fires

Still concerned?  Don’t be, you can check your own risk levels.

Most cities and towns have a local website where you can find your fire department’s average response time to evaluate your risk.  The goal set by The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) Standard 1710 is to have a full response time from call to arrival of 5 minutes and 20 seconds allowing for ample time to get your house fire extinguished.  This in turn means your gun safe will likely be unaffected.  And you can find ABC fire extinguishers on sale pretty inexpensively online if yours has expired.

That’s the bottom line and why the fire rating on a gun safe in many situations is irrelevant.  You may want to do some digging when the fire rating seems too good to be true. 

Gun safe ratings can be done by the manufacturer or by a third party, so it is important to not rely only on the rating, but who gave it.

Underwriters Laboratories and Intertek ETL are the two most trusted third parties when it comes to assigning firing ratings on gun safes.   Both organizations are over a century old and have been a 3rd party resource for consumers like you.

There is no fireproof room in a home, but kitchens catch fire more often than others because you’re working with fire, heat, and flammables, and they’re followed by bedrooms and other spaces where electrical fires occur from overused and under maintained sockets.  Kitchen fires are normally stopped, literally in the pot, before they can spread.  It still counts statistically as a fire, but because they get under control quickly it does not spread.

If your gun safe is furthest away from these hazards, and the fire department can make it in time, the fire rating may save the day if the room only gets touched without heating up too much.  But again, it is unlikely a higher fire rating will help because if the fire gets to the point protection is needed, chances are it is already too late.

Now you know the history of fire ratings and gun safes, what to look for, and that the ratings likely won’t help or hurt your guns as the chances of needing a safe that withstands intense heat are slim to none.  But if you want that extra bit of assurance, check out our gun safes here at SecureIt.  We have options that meet all your needs.

9mm vs. 10mm Cartridges – 1mm Makes a Difference

Posted on by Josh Kinser
9mm vs. 10mm Cartridges 1mm Does Make a Difference

Outside of the 10mm bullet being 1mm larger than a 9mm, the two have substantial differences in their effectiveness including their lethal ranges, case capacity, and uses like hunting.  10mm and 9mm cartridges also have similarities in that they’re both flat shooting and able to be used for self defense. 

Fun fact: The FBI has used both 9mm and 10mm ammo as standards, but switched back to 9mm exclusively as it has less kick, can load faster, and the handguns tend to be easier to shoot.  This makes 9mm cartridges more ideal for self-defense and direct threat situations when compared to a 10mm, although the 10mm which became of interest after the 1986 shootout in Miami to the FBI is still authorized for use by the Special Weapons & Tactics and the Hostage Rescue Teams.

Both ammo types come in center and rimfire options, but 9mm handguns have less recoil than 10mm guns making them better for beginners and self defense situations, where 10mm can come in handy when you’re hunting or need protection against large or aggressive predators like a bear or wild boar if you’re camping or hiking. 

Here’s a quick comparison table to help you choose between the two based on your needs.

 

9mm

10mm

Effective range

50 yards

75 – 100 yards

Price per bullet

$0.22 – $1.00 

$0.43 – $2.00

Center and rimfire options

Yes

Yes

Lethal range

164ft

600ft

Recoil

4 – 5 lbs

10 – 12 lbs

Hunting small game

Yes

Yes

Hunting large game

No

Yes

When to Choose 9mm over 10mm

9mm is better than a 10mm when you need a firearm for self protection and are not used to heavy firepower as the recoil is lighter and it has plenty of lethal range.  9mm has been the choice for most law enforcement officers and the military for decades which in turn makes it the most popular choice for concealed carry. 

9mm ammo is also much less expensive than 10mm so you can practice shooting at a range without having to break the bank.  And if you’re hunting small game, the 9mm is a better choice than 10mm since it’ll leave less of an entry would and potential damage to the trophy or meat.

When a 10mm is better than a 9mm

If you’re going hunting or camping and there are large predators nearby, a 10mm ammo will be the better choice than 9mm as the bullet penetrates deeper and can be more effective at deterring the threat situation. If you live in a rural area and are defending your home from an intruder or animal at a distance, 10mm bullets will do better than 9mm as the effective range is greater and you’ll have more time to recover from the recoil.

Both the 9mm and 10mm are great options for self defense, but they don’t compare when it comes to effective range, price, and uses.  It all comes down to your experience with the firearm, the distance between you and the target, and your budget.  If you found this guide helpful, join our newsletter list for more like it by entering your email below.

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