This blog is in gratitude for my dad, Randy, teaching us four girls the importance of good manners. Happy Father’s Day to all you Dads! Thanks for all you do and teach your children – it’s so important. 🙂
I’m so ever grateful for my Dad! My dad was barely an adult when he entered the Navy and fought in the Pacific arena during WW11.
Being brought up at that time in our history, good manners was demanded. You often dressed for dinner and of course everyone was there for family dinner. And good table manners were expected! Napkin in the lap, elbows off the table, cut one bite at a time and so forth. I learn which fork to use first (think back to Pretty Woman with Julia Roberts) and knew which bread plate was mine. Oh, those were the days! … but I digress…
There were no cell phones or internet, we actual had conversations and talked face to face.
Something of a lost art, I fear. However, that brings me the topic (timely as it’s Father’s Day weekend) of practicing good gun range etiquette.
What is “Gun Etiquette”? For many of us older folks (a relative term), it’s pretty much common sense. That is a blend of common sense, courtesy and of course, safety. We want to make sure your day at the range is fun, and good gun range etiquette makes it even better, for everyone.
First thing is always safety:
1. ALWAYS keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. 2. ALWAYS keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot. 3. ALWAYS assume the gun is loaded
4. ALWAYS be aware of your target and what’s beyond it.
If you’re new to shooting, most gun ranges require you to watch (or read) about gun safety prior to using the range and they may have their own specific rules which will apply. Most indoor gun ranges also have an RSO (Range Safety Officer) keeping an eye over all the shooters in one specific bay.
“Pay attention to the RSOs, who will tell you what to do in case of an emergency. Remember that the Range Safety Officer has absolute authority on the range. Compliance with his or her instructions is mandatory.” (NRA)
There’s certain terminology when you’re on the range that must be obeyed at all times!
“Ceasefire” is used whenever all shooting MUST STOP!
Generally, this is because of a potential problem or danger. Sometimes, the RSO will need to go down range. More common than not, it’s simply that his / her attention must be away from the firing line.
Safety is everyone’s responsibility and remember Anyone who spots a potential problem should call “Ceasefire”!
When the ceasefire is over, the RSO will ensure that no one is downrange before stating, “The range is hot” (or he may say it’s going Hot). This command alerts everyone that the range is shifting from a cold range or ceasefire state to shooting again.
But wait for the “commence firing” command has been given before you shoot. Commence Firing is the go-ahead command given that tells everyone it’s safe to begin shooting – when you are ready!
A few other rules of Good Gun Range Etiquette are:
1. Do not fire at posts, supports or target frames. These are expensive and time-consuming to replace. It could prevent anyone else from using that lane after you.
2. Shoot only range-approved targets. Check with your range to find out what types of targets are allowed. Some ranges allow only approved paper, cardboard, club-furnished metal targets and clay targets.
3. It’s good etiquette to leave the range better than you found it. Picking up trash, cleaning your firing station, sweeping the casings away and obeying all of the range rules are good gun range etiquette!
4. Please, Don’t bring your pet to the range!
It’s a great weekend to take Dad or let Dad take you to the range! Be safe and enjoy!
What happens during this time of a “New Normal” … and well, crime? Due to “social distancing”, curfews and self quarantines, what does our day to day life look like in the midst of a Covid-19 pandemic and how to avoid becoming a victim.
Are you noticing a Fear of lawlessness… This is why many are becoming first time gun owners.
I’m sure you’ve been inundated with constant updates about the Coronavirus (Covid-19).
We are living in uncertain times. For many the reality of trying to keep our families and homes safe from any looters, break ins, violence or chaos may be more daunting than the fear of the virus. As our daily life structure seems to change everyday, I believe the concern over Martial Law is top of mind more now than ever in our lifetime!
People are scared and this is a wake up call for many about just how “prepared” do you need to be? So, what can we do to become prepared and staying safe?As a member of the concealed carry parliament, first I recommend that keep calm and keep our eyes open – be observant and watchful.
Remember that “panic” behavior is very contagious! Did you buy toilet paper because there seemed to be a run on it?… me too 🙂
And with “panic” behavior, you’re going to see more of a survival of the fittest play out all around you if you haven’t already… This may be a mix of FOMO (fear of missing out) or instinct. Whatever it is, this is translating to large number of gun sales, waiting lines, and a shortage of ammo.
Why? Many people are waking up to the fear that our government won’t, isn’t , or can’t protect you. Are you concerned with how to defend your family?
The silver lining in this scenario, eyes are being opened for the first time and perhaps your friends philosophy about gun control are changing. This epidemic is opening eyes to the power, freedom and importance of our Second Amendment and why it’s so very important to protect it. Get and stay involved with your local elections. Let’s use this opportunity for protecting ourselves, growing number of gun owners; NOT Reducing our Rights.
Do you have a plan? A plan in case of home a invasion? Do the kids know what to do, where to go (hide) until there is a “safe word”? What about a flashlight, cell phone, self defense tool? Do you need a bug out / bug in bag?
… And, what about your finances? Check out this information on preparing your finances for emergencies.
Are
you seeing a spike in crime in your area? In my area via Nextdoor
Neighbor app, groceries being stolen off of front porches, and Amazon
packages. There are shortages of grocery stores, medical supplies, gun
ranges being broken into. Cities are going on lock down. Things are
serious and you need to take what action you can to stay safe and
protect your family.
Here’s some survival skills information, and with kids being home now it’s important to make sure they know Eddie Eagle (children’s gun safety).
It”s our hope during this time, you are able to connect with your
child in a new way or better than before. We are all so very busy and
it’s challenging to balance all of life’s obstacles.
As a Damsel in Defense independent Pro, we have a series of Safe Hearts books that help you talk to your kids about their “personal space”. These story books helps in communicating with your children so they understand what ‘looks’ one way, may feel very differently internally. The perpetrator isn’t a stranger anymore, but is typically someone the child knows. Did you realize 70% of sexual assaults occur before the age of 17?
Concealed
carry does change your lifestyle and your wardrobe! That’s why at
Incognito Wear IX, we’ve got what you need! We’ve solved your “dressing
dilemmas”. Our clothes save you valuable time getting dressed. You know
you’ll look great, feel confident. You’ll feel more empowered to be
armed knowing you’re incognito.
Shop our Made in America Concealed Carry Clothing for women at IncognitoWearIX.com. We have bellyband holsters for both men and women, accessories and jewelry to complete your gun chic look!
Can you believe it’s this time of the year already! We are preparing for our holidays sales events – the best of the year!
thanksgiving sale, shopping, great deal, sale, come early, stay late, shop to you drop
We wish you the best as you come together with family and friends to celebrate your traditions and maybe start new ones. I come from a fairly large family of three sisters. It’s hard getting family together some times, and traveling can add on stress. This year, our “core family” tradition is melding to accommodate the growing extended family – adding a son in law and grandchildren.
A favorite tradition for my sister and I was spreading out the Thanksgiving Day paper and making our Christmas lists.
As we got older, The Thanksgiving Day paper became our shopping list for Christmas. My sister’s and I would develop a plan ,going in opposite directions or different anchor big box stores, and help each other get the coveted holiday toy And, the best BLACK FRIDAY DEALS AND DOOR BUSTERS to save money!
If you Sign up for our emails, you won’t miss out on any specials this holiday season. We have some great gift ideas and prices you’ll love.
Weekly promos will be coming your way! Follow us on our social platforms too!
and a true BLACK FRIDAY / CYBER MONDAY SALE – 4 days only on our Lion+Lamb best selling women’s concealed carry top.
This holiday season you’ll be the best dressed and armed!
RE- defining Concealed carry clothing. Incognito Wear IX.
This may seem like a Halloween nightmare! But it’s real; and it happens just that Quick!
I give this woman kudos for her alertness and seeing the men, giving her time to back up but she wasn’t prepared. What could or should she have done? What would you do in this situation?
We have awareness months for so many good causes. For example, October is Brest Cancer Awareness Month, but we fail to make every monthSituational Awareness Month in our own lives. By being aware of your surroundings you are scarring the attacker away! You are not going to be an easy victim.
Additionally, imagine how this scenario could have turned out if these simple procedures were enacted.
One, carrying a loaded firearm or other self-defense tool. Two, LOCK your vehicle doors and keep your keys in your pocket or hands.
Here’s the deal: “The attackers choose the who, when, where and the how of the attack. The defender never knows when (and seldom if) they are going to be targeted”. (from ParatusPlease).
Please develop a habit to ALWAYS LOCK your car doors. Lock them when you exit the vehicle, specially at gas stations. Lock them if you’re ‘just going to be a second’. A second is all it takes -for someone to steal your vehicle, your purse, or more.
Better yet, learn to protect yourself. A second can change your life. You will be your own first responder. Listen to that little voice that’s warning you! Don’t succumb to a false sense of “politeness” or fail to act due to some self imposed “embarrassment” if you do ___ or act this way that someone may think…x,y,x. It’s time to take this seriously. Your life may literally depend on it. Besides, if your gut is right won’t you be glad you listened and acted reasonable. Awareness is a deterrent.
photo: preppersillustrated.com
Being aware lets you think through your options of response. Do you fight? Do you de-escalate? Do you speak and / or make eye contact? Do you have a weapon to fight back? Either non-lethal or lethal.
Having a plan in advance is critical. Thinking rationally in the midst of being attacked is not likely. You can only go where your mind has already been.
There are lots of non-lethal options to choose from if you’re not ready for a firearm. Begin by putting some layers in place. Living a lifestyle of safety may mean changing your wardrobe as you make this shift in your daily routine and develop new habits.
It’s all a process; slow and steady. Small changes can be huge.
Just remember the saying by Clint Smith who said it best, “Carrying a gun is not supposed to be comfortable, it is supposed to be comforting.“Yes, it may be heavy, bulky, a little scary, uncomfortable-at times, and a wee bit challenging.
I know first-hand the challenges in dressing around a firearm. I had a
closet full of “Nothing to wear” clothes. Nothing that wouldn’t print the image
of my gun. That’s one reason I started designing clothing because we carry too!
Most concealed carry options are designed for men. Tight or fitted clothing is
not a good choice when you want to concealed carry.
See danger before it gets you!
The idea of course is to see danger before it sees you! Criminals are looking for easy targets. That means the victim never sees the danger coming until it’s too late! We don’t want you to be that person.
Start today with making a single small change. Start noticing people around you – you might actually be surprised at how many are completely unaware (they’ll be the ones with their face down & on their phones) – but not you! You are starting a new safety habit ?.
I’ve started making this a game. After speaking with someone and you are no longer in their presence, try to recap what they are wearing. Could you give a detailed description on the individual for a rendering? You can even do this with people passing you on the street. The focus is to actually LOOK at people.
Learn from my mistakes #112 – Your kids are more risk than you think!
Happy Fall Y’all! I know many of you are ready for cooler weather – me too! It’s been a hot summer and I’m beginning to see signs of Fall- Yeah! What does this mean for you and keeping your kids safe?
Daylight hours are fading and Halloween decorations are showing up everywhere! If you have young kids, this is an exciting time.
BUT- there’s a spooky side ….
Are you talking to them about staying safe? Specially, about a different kind of ‘stranger danger’. It’s likely, your family will be in some crowded area this fall enjoying fall festivals, going to corn mazes, bon fires, camping and of course a night of “Trick or Treating”.
How aware are you?… really aware of who may be among the crowds looking at your kids?
Let’s begin thinking in layers and being aware of our surroundings. Most of these events are in large crowds, lots of people, young and old. Should you need to defend yourself, considering that more people are beyond your target, And, since one of our RULES OF GUN SAFETY this many not be this best plan or first line of defense. Not to mention, this action could make for a legal nightmare.
Given that (drawing a firearm) isn’t a great first choice, have you empowered your children to also be a part of their own self-defense? There are some great options in the way of non-lethal tools available on our site, like TackiKey or pepper spray or even better Protected Pepper with Shield Technology, that alerts five close contacts that you have deployed the pepper spray. This is from Damsel in Defense, for which I am a consultant.
There’s another type of threat that we don’t commonly think about and it’s not a pleasant thought either. The thought there are predators seeking to steal our children and maybe in a position of authority (with our kids). Primarily, child pornography and sex trafficking.
How do you talk to kinds about these unpleasant topics? We’ve got an answer! There’s a book series, Safe Hearts from Damsel in Defense, to help explain on a kid’s level what’s not ‘normal’ behavior from an adult. We should be aware and also teach our children to listen and respect that small inner voice and what to do if they ever find themselves in such a predicament.
From Damsel in Defense Safe Hearts series
I know first-hand, that this type of thing can happen at any age, even at college- male or female. It’s important to teach ‘em while they’re young! I’m grateful my son sensed something wasn’t right and listened to that voice – trusted his instinct. I admit these sort of topics weren’t widely discussed nor did they have the news coverage when my children were young, nor was I living a lifestyle of safety then. Again the statement rings true; Knowledge is Power
Enlarge your circle of empowerment by teaching your kids, who will tell their friends and share correct knowledge and what to do if they ever experience such a situation. It’s unfortunate that this is reality. Better to be prepared, as best as possible.
