Feedback On Florida CWFL "Scanadal": A list member writes, "Just a piece of info you might find interesting about the Florida CCW 'controversy'. I emailed John Lott about another issue we have a mutual interest in and he shared that in his check, Florida had one CCW revocation last year for a gun related incident. 1 out of 410,000 permits isn't too bad! If we only had a murder rate that low it would probably be Vatican City:)" --- Oops, Wrong Store: A pair of teenagers ended up on the losing side of a gunfight in a North Hollywood liquor store they tried to rob. The cashier, who turned out to be a licensed security officer, was not wounded. The wounded teens were booked on suspicion of attempted murder. http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-briefs4.2feb04,1,5335982.story?coll=la-headlines-california --- "Building Shooting Muscle": Ralph Mroz uses a weight-training analogy to examine where to concentrate your handgun training if you are serious about self-defense. "The first is the consistent statistics from law enforcement shootings in which officers were killed. These FBI-compiled numbers have been pretty much the same for many years: 50% of LEOs killed are killed at five feet or less, and 75% killed are killed at ten feet or less..." (This is why, over the years that I have been teaching on my own, I have increasingly emphasized lateral movement, deflection of arm's-length attacks and a continuum of point-shooting techniques, coupled with sighted-fire techniques that flow from the latter.) http://www.policeone.com/writers/columnists/POSA/articles/1209319/ From John Farnam: 28 Jan 07 Range Fire! Last week, I conducted a training course at a municipal, police, indoor range in the Midwest. This range is an up-to-date one, with good ventilation and a modern, rubber bullet trap. In addition, it is well maintained and swept up after each use. As a group of students were shooting from the fifteen-meter line, we all suddenly noticed flames erupting from a downrange joint in the concrete floor. The flames followed the crack from left to right, like a burning fuse, leaping into the air twelve inches at times! Several resourceful officers grabbed fire extinguishers, but it was ultimately unnecessary. The flames died out within less than a minute. With the excitement over, our training resumed. When pistols, rifles, and shotguns discharge, not all powdered propellant contained within the cartridge actually burns. In fact, a significant portion does not. Instead, scorched but unburnt, it is jettisoned from the muzzle along with the bullet. On outdoor ranges, the phenomenon is mostly a non-issue, but on indoor ranges, unburnt powder accumulates on the deck and, mixed in with other debris, it is usually identified at "dirt" and swept up. On this particular range, such "dirt" is not allowed to accumulate and is promptly carried away, but even thorough sweeping does not get unburnt powder out of joints and cracks in the concrete floor. I'm not sure what ignited it, but in this case there was enough accumulated, unburnt powder to burn its way along the joint for three meters or so. On heavily-used, commercial ranges, large piles of such "dirt" are sometimes allowed to accumulate in edges and corners, as well as concrete joints. That practice engenders an extremely dangerous circumstance and has caused more than one such range to burn to the ground! In order to prevent these fires, indoor ranges need to be swept regularly, but, in addition, they need to be periodically vacuumed, particularly edges, corners, cracks, and joints. That is the only way unburnt powder can be completely removed from places it likes to accumulate. "Range fires" sound incredulous, until you've seen one for yourself! /John (I have seen such a fire, in the mat placed on the shelf of the shooter's booth on an indoor range, when incompletely burned 2400 powder granules from .44 Magnum loads being tested in a Pistol Perch rest were ignited by flash from the barrel-cylinder gap. The same range got into trouble with OSHA for requiring employees to sweep up "other debris," which was mostly lead dust. This is a job best left to professionals. Use of vacuum cleaners on unburned powder risks igniting it with sparks from the electric motors.) 28 Jan 07 Military Rifle Effectiveness In an article in the current issue of Infantry Magazine, authors were assigned the task of articulating the current party-line with regard to continued lack of confidence in the military's M855 "62gr green-tip" 223 round, still being issued. We are assured that extensive re-testing had been done in response to chronic complaints from the field. However, most such complaints are quickly dismissed as resulting from "inexperience" and "hazy recollections." We are then told that all resultant testing only addressed close-range, exposed human targets (fifty meters maximum) that are unprotected by cover, ignoring the 223's (1) lack of acceptable terminal effect beyond 150m and (2) chronic lack of ability to penetrate commonly-used objects (like car doors) that the enemy uses for cover- the twin issues that are at the heart of complaints about this caliber and have for the past forty years. Government "studies" are all alike! Authors went on to admonish us all that we need to be accurate shooters. No problem with that, but they then advocated "controlled-pairs" for engaging enemy soldiers. Funny, no one ever suggested the necessity of any such multiple-shot technique when we were using M14s, did they? Routinely firing "controlled-pairs" reduces a 28-round magazine to a 14-round one and effectively halves one's ammunition supply. In conclusion, we are assured that inveterate complaints about the 223 round's dismal failure as a main, battle caliber are merely "myth and superstition. "The Stoner rifle in 223 caliber is the "best... available" we are told. Then, almost as an aside, it is sheepishly admitted that ineffectiveness and long range and second-rate penetration really are problems with this combination and that "something even better" may come along soon. Well, it can hardly come too soon! The replacement forty years ago of heavy-caliber, main-battle-rifles, like the M14 and FAL, with light rifles in varmint calibers was, among other things, an attempt by "just-tech" types to degrade the importance and potency of the individual soldier and Marine, when it has been the heroism and gritty determination of the individual soldier and Marine that has consistently turned the tide of battle since this nation began! It is a forty-year old, procurement mistake, and all the trumped-up "studies" in the world will fail to convince soldiers and Marines in the field who are obliged to believe their own eyes! The 223 round may be adequate for domestic, personal defense and domestic policing. A convincing argument could even me made for its military suitability in rear-area defense. But, as a main-battle-caliber, its glaring inadequacy is obvious to all but a few, party-lines and party-liners notwithstanding! /John (Firearms are tools and it often helps to select the right one for the job. While the .223 platform may not be optimal for many military applications, a .308 battle rifle also may not be optimal for urban law enforcement or home-defense.) 29 Jan 07 Interesting conclusions from an Instructor on the West Coast: "At this month's Airsoft session, the subject was, 'Confronting someone who is visibly armed with a slung rifle or shotgun, while yourself armed only with a concealed pistol.' The person with a rifle may be a legitimate hunter who has inadvertently strayed onto private land, a drunk shooting tin cans in an inappropriate place, or a person of unknown intent in the context of a natural disaster. We simulated all three! Our 'rifle' was a realistic-looking Airsoft Kalashnikov. Here are some things we learned: Someone with a rifle slung with muzzle up represents far less of a threat than does someone with his rifle slung muzzle down! When the rifle is slung with the muzzle up, unslinging and getting it into a legitimate firing position is slow and clumsy, and, during the process, the rifleman is extremely vulnerable to close attack. When the rifle is slung with the muzzle down, deployment is smoother, much faster, and far more difficult to counteract. The best ways to confront a person equipped with a slung rifle is (1) at conversational range, or (2) at distance and from behind adequate cover. When you are right on top of the suspect, you can control him when he makes a furtive move by deflecting the rifle away and moving aggressively to the side. Pistol rounds delivered in this scenario were invariably to the suspect's side, shoulder, and back. The rifleman seldom got rounds on target. Getting this close is a dicey proposition no matter what techniques you employ, as the suspect may have other weapons (pistols, blades) that you don't see. But, when you have no choice, be eminently prepared to go all the way, and disengage as quickly as possible.. Conversely, when a student, in the open, confronted the rifleman at eight to ten meters, it was nearly impossible to out-draw (with his pistol) the rifle as it came off the suspect's shoulder. The best plan is to confront the armed suspect with several people, all themselves armed with rifles, at varying angles and distances, and from strong positions of cover. In such a scenario, any rational suspect will immediately perceive his position as untenable and will likely not engage in provocation." Lesson: The best confrontation is no confrontation! When you must challenge a visibly armed suspect, do so from the position of greatest strength available. Don't temp him (and fate) by providing him with too much of an edge! /John (For the other side of the coin, see Tom Aveni's comment on The Unholstered Handgun at http://www.theppsc.org/Staff_Views/Aveni/Unholstered-Handgun.htm) 30 Jan 07 Shooting incident in SC, from a friend and LEO there: "Late last week, three of our uniformed, patrol officers responded to a loud, family dispute. After arriving and making contact, our officers managed to calm things down, and the man was eventfully persuaded to leave the house for the balance of the evening. Two of the three officers remained behind, while the third returned to his parked, beat car. The male suspect politely asked if he could put together an overnight bag, and our officers permitted him to go into the master bedroom for this purpose. Less than a minute later, he came out shooting! With pistol in hand, he shot at both of our officers and his estranged girlfriend. One of his bullets grazed the cheek of one of our officers. The other officer was unhurt, as was the woman. Both officers, and the woman, fled the house, and the suspect chased after them, shooting as he ran. Hearing the excitement, the officer at the vehicle retrieved his shotgun, just in time as it turns out. At a range of twenty feet, he shot the suspect in the chest with a single round of 00 buckshot. The suspect responded by turning around and retreating back to the house, closing the door behind him. SWAT was called out, but, when they arrived and probed the house, they found the suspect DRT in the living room. Autopsy revealed that he died as a result of the shotgun wounds. Our injured officer is expected to recover fully, but may have a sexy scar for a souvenir! Here are the lessons we are all learning from this incident: This is not Atlanta! This is the first OIS we've experience here in a long time, maybe too long, as perhaps we were all too reluctant to believe that it could happen 'right here in River City!' All of us need to be constantly thinking tactically, no matter where we are! Don't turn your back on suspects, no matter how penitent or innocuous they appear. People lie. People have hidden agendas. Who have been violent in the past are probably emotionally irrational/unstable, maybe suicidal/homicidal, and can instantly become violent again." I would add: When you're being shot at, move! Beware of bedrooms! Like kitchens, they are full of weapons. You can't shoot people 'a little bit!' When it is time to shoot, it is time to shoot without delay and ruthlessly, for maximum stopping effect. This isn't Disneyland! /John --- From AzCDL: We need YOUR help on SB 1251. SB 1251 - http://www.azleg.gov/DocumentsForBill.asp?Bill_Number=SB1251 Strengthens the "public establishment or event" storage requirements: · Defines "secure storage" and "readily accessible." · Prohibits recording information about the weapon or individual. · If "operator" doesn't comply, they can't prohibit weapons. · Exempts CCW permit holders from carry prohibitions except in court houses, etc. The success of SB 1251 hinges on providing facts and testimony about State and local agencies and municipalities not complying with the storage requirements established during the last legislative session: http://tinyurl.com/2qtjlf As you can see from this article in the Arizona Daily Star, while some cities are doing a great job of complying with the law, not all of our Public Servants are eager to set up storage lockers for your weapon when they post signs that in essence say, "We don't serve your kind here": http://www.azstarnet.com/allheadlines/148069 Since the new law became effective on 9/21/06, many of you have shared anecdotal stories about storage lockers not being available; data being recorded about you and your weapon; guns being tossed into boxes or bags; and downright refusal to store your weapon. It's time to go on record to emphasize the need for SB 1251. It is our understanding that SB 1251 will be added to the February 12, 2007 Senate Judiciary committee agenda: htttp://www.azleg.gov/CommitteeInfo.asp?Committee_ID=10 If you have encountered any "public establishment" storage situations which you felt were not in compliance with the law, AzCDL and the Senate Judiciary committee members need to hear from you. Send the committee members an email, with a courtesy copy to president@AzCDL.org: Email Subject: SB 1251 - Please vote YES! Please start the body of your text with: The Arizona Citizens Defense League (AzCDL) has informed me that the Senate Judiciary committee will be hearing testimony on SB 1251. Then, go on to describe your encounter or observation of non-compliance with the storage law in your own words. Include as much factual information as you can - things like the place and date are very important. Please be civil - it's very helpful! Also, stick to the subject - focus on non-compliance with the current storage laws. If you are willing to testify at their committee hearing, please state that in your message. Finally, thank them for taking the time to read your message and urge them to pass SB 1251 out of committee for consideration by the full Senate. Don't forget to include: Your Name street address city, state and zip telephone number The following are cut-and-paste email lists of the committee members, along with the AzCDL president's email address. One list is semi-colon separated and one is comma separated. Use the one that fits your email software. (semi-colon separation) cgray@azleg.gov; rgould@azleg.gov; kcheuvront@azleg.gov; ahale@azleg.gov; kjohnson@azleg.gov; rmiranda@azleg.gov; jwaring@azleg.gov; president@AzCDL.org (comma separation) cgray@azleg.gov, rgould@azleg.gov, kcheuvront@azleg.gov, ahale@azleg.gov, kjohnson@azleg.gov, rmiranda@azleg.gov, jwaring@azleg.gov, president@AzCDL.org As more relevant legislation is introduced, we will keep you up to date via these Alerts: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/AZCDL_Alerts/ These alerts are a project of the Arizona Citizens Defense League (AzCDL), an all volunteer, non-profit, non-partisan grassroots organization. Join today! AzCDL - Protecting Your Freedom http://www.azcdl.org/html/join_us_.html Copyright © 2007 Arizona Citizens Defense League, Inc., all rights reserved. On Monday February 5, 2007, the House Homeland Security and Property Rights (HSPR) committee will be voting on 2 Good Bills (HB 2458 & HCR 2024) and one Very Bad Bill (HB 2286). It is important that the committee members hear from you on all these bills. HB 2286 was put on the agenda specifically to allow the Public (YOU!) to express their opinion for the record. You can find out more about these bills, plus links to them, at the AzCDL website: http://www.azcdl.org/html/legislation.html HB 2458 & HCR 2024 are virtually identical except that HCR 2024 is a legislative referendum that would submit a proposed constitutional amendment to the voters for approval. Both bills prohibit the Governor or Adjutant General from confiscating lawfully held firearms or ammunition during a state of emergency. HB 2286 is Representative Kyrsten Sinema's bill that classifies gun owners as terrorists. Here is the specific language: "An individual or group of individuals commits domestic terrorism if the individual or group of individuals are not affiliated with a local, state or federal law enforcement entity and associate with another individual or group of individuals as an organization, group, corporation or company for the purpose of patrolling to detect alleged illegal activity or to individually patrol for the purpose of detecting alleged illegal activity and if the individual or group of individuals is armed with a firearm or other weapon." Per HB 2286: · YOU are a terrorist if you are armed and come to the aid of someone being attacked. · YOU are a terrorist if you are armed and patrolling with your Neighborhood Watch group. · YOU are a terrorist if you are armed, observe criminal activity and report it to law enforcement. The committee members want to hear from you. Tell them to support HB 2458 & HCR 2024 but defeat HB 2286. The following are TWO suggested cut-and-paste letters to send. One for the good bills and one for the evil bill. Following these letters are email lists for the committee members in both semi-colon and comma separated formats. Pick the one compatible with your email software. Subject: Support HB 2458 & HCR 2024 Dear Representative: The Arizona Citizens Defense League (AzCDL) has informed me that HB 2458 and HCR 2024 are being considered in the House Homeland Security and Property Rights committee on February 5, 2007. I urge you to vote both these bills out of committee with a recommendation for passage by the full House. I was horrified by the events that followed Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. As violent criminals attacked citizens with impunity, law enforcement abused a statutory provision that allowed the government to "regulate" firearms during a state of emergency in order to confiscate privately owned firearms. They deprived law-abiding citizens of their only means of defense against otherwise unrestrained violence. It is imperative that law-abiding citizens in Arizona do not face similar abuse. HB 2458 and HCR 2024 protect the rights of law-abiding citizens by preventing the confiscation of lawfully owned firearms by State officials during an emergency. Again, I urge to vote these bills out of committee with a recommendation for passage by the full House. Sincerely, Your Name Street Address City, AZ zip-code (telephone number) Subject: Defeat HB 2286 Dear Representative: The Arizona Citizens Defense League (AzCDL) has informed me that HB 2286 is being considered by the Homeland Security and Property Rights committee on February 5, 2007. I strongly urge you to vote against HB 2286. HB 2286 seeks to classify gun owners as terrorists. Under the provisions of HB 2286, I would be considered a terrorist if I was carrying a firearm and: · Came to the aid of a fellow citizen being attacked. · Patrolled with my Neighborhood Watch. · Reported any criminal activity that I observed. Under the guise of Homeland Security, HB 2286 tramples the Constitutional guarantees of free association, assembly, self-protection and the right to keep and bear arms. It would be a travesty if HB 2286 was given any serious consideration, and it would be shameful if you did not support its defeat in your committee. Stand up for the guarantees in the United States and Arizona Constitutions, and the rights of the citizens of Arizona. Vote to defeat HB 2286. Sincerely, Your Name Street Address City, State & zip-code Telephone Number The Homeland Security and Property Rights committee members: (semi-colon separation) wnichols@azleg.gov; dclark@azleg.gov; rbarnes@azleg.gov; nbarto@azleg.gov; tboone@azleg.gov; clcampbell@azleg.gov; sgallardo@azleg.gov; tprezelski@azleg.gov; ksinema@azleg.gov; jpweiers@azleg.gov (comma separation) wnichols@azleg.gov, dclark@azleg.gov, rbarnes@azleg.gov, nbarto@azleg.gov, tboone@azleg.gov, clcampbell@azleg.gov, sgallardo@azleg.gov, tprezelski@azleg.gov, ksinema@azleg.gov, jpweiers@azleg.gov As relevant legislation is introduced, we will keep you up to date via these Alerts: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/AZCDL_Alerts/ These alerts are a project of the Arizona Citizens Defense League (AzCDL), an all volunteer, non-profit, non-partisan grassroots organization. Join today! AzCDL - Protecting Your Freedom http://www.azcdl.org/html/join_us_.html Copyright © 2007 Arizona Citizens Defense League, Inc., all rights reserved. -- Stephen P. Wenger Firearm safety - It's a matter for education, not legislation. http://www.spw-duf.info .