I'm Moving

Please follow me to my new website and blog at http://www.juliannacrowder.com/blog.html

Don't think it is "just that easy"

Just a quick thought this morning as I pack up for Waco and get ready to host the first National A Girl and A Gun Training conference. I have been a student, a competitor, and volunteer safety officer at many events over the last few years.  I have reviewed my participation at each level and have gained a completely different perspective, now that I am the event organizer.

Being a student,participant, competitor... Whatever fits... I had high expectations for the experience because of the investment I was making.  a few times easily disappointed, others extremely satisfied, but always won over in the end with a praise from the instructor, nice goodie bag or prize at a match

Being a staff member at major matches I watched and learned.  Mostly baffled by how these big events all come together, I took any nugget I could because I knew that someday I wanted to be the girl in charge...

Well today is that day. I am the head girl in charge.  I appreciate now more than ever what a match directors job is, how instructors produce top quality training programs and just how critical I have been as a participant/staff all these years.   So on behalf of every instructor and match director out there, this is my request to those of you taking classes or shooting matches across the country... Know that your experience and satisfaction is our top priority.  Understand that hundreds of hours have been devoted  to thinking of everything, and that even with the best planning shit happens and we deal with the best we can.  Constructive feedback is always welcome be because we thrive on making the next experience bigger and better (type A personality involved here).

So my lesson for this season of my life.... It ain't as easy as ya thought now was it!

Go forth and enjoy the time you have set aside for the class or match, say a pray for those in charge.

Hi! I'm a long time "wanna learn to shoot & own a gun" girl, but I've never done it

Now is the time ladies!  2012 was the year of the woman in the firearms industry, but 2013 is the year of the woman doing more with her training and education.

Events like Girl’s Night Out, Breakfast & Bullets, Target Time and Clinics are an economical way to get in some meaningful practice, meet other women with similar interests, and most importantly bond in community!  These events are stepping stones to help you figure out what you like and dislike about your gun, how to shop for guns and ammo, and  introduce you to quality educators who offer the kind of training classes you need a civilian and a woman. 

So what kind of training should you look for?  “Ninja squad” classes are fun and all, but there is a practical application we must have for our everyday life.  You need to know how to find your front sight, press the trigger and follow through until the threat has stopped…. and keep your cool.  Each facilitator with A Girl and A Gun Women’s Shooting League has resources for instructors in your area, if she is not already an instructor herself.  

2013 Media Day at the Range (SHOT Show)

My 2nd year attending SHOT Show was completely different from my last year (my eyes were glazed over with new and exciting products and opportunities).  This year was full of meaningful networking and dinner meetings, one social event, several interviews, plus walking the floor visiting vendors I want to do business with and the realization that I was still missing a lot and need a better plan next year.  

Media Range was very different this year.  I was among the invited Media and was able to attend with a select group for the morning session allowing us more time to visit with Vendors, get our questions answered and pictures taken.   Yes I got my picture with Gunny and had a great interview with him, I did get to test drive a few new guns coming this spring and see some really neat stuff.  BUT it was so cold that day, the misery factor was extremely high, and I didn't shoot every gun like last year.  

I am smitten with the Rhino 200D mdae by Chiappa.  This Defense revolver is easy to conceal because it offers a thinner profile. The flat cylinder grants maximum comfort. and the barrel is aligned with the bottom most chamber which is the key component to Rhino's low recoil.   "The position of the barrel lowers the center of gravity and yields a centerline of the bore more in line with the shooter's arm allowing for the most natural "point ability" while engaging a target. This characteristic also drastically reduces both recoil and muzzle flipwhich insures subsequent shots to be on target faster than ever before. The reduction of the recoil allows for the use of ultra light alloys to be used in the construction of the Rhino minimizing any adverse effect. The flat sided cylinder design of the Rhino reduces the typical revolver profile allowing greater concealment. Featuring both double and single action characteristics, the single action is actuated by a hammer cocking device that engages the unexposed hammer to prepare to fire." quoted from their website.

Warning: the low position of the barrel requires a specific grip style, please view instructions in the manual section.  Ask me how I know? Mr. Chiappa and I were so busy in conversation that when I picked up the gun to shoot, he didn't see my grip and the first shot my thumb felt the blast.  It stung really bad and I instantly new I had gripped that gun wrong.  

My next carry gun will be the Springfield XDS 9mm.  I know, I know I am the Glock Girl.  All true and I LOVE my Glocks, but this baby will fit perfect in a Flashbang or in a pelvis holster while still fitting my body size and shape.  There was no recoil as compared the same version in .45 ACP, and I am girl who shoots guns with no safeties because my muscle memory is trained that way.  It meets all my requirements when I am shopping for a gun:
Grip, Size & Weight, Able to Conceal, Price.






Having a light or laser on your self defense gun is always a topic of discussion.  I personally don't use lasers on my guns, but I do LOVE the Viridian Green Dot product line, and if I did ever use a laser it would be this one.  I also like the lights they have that are small and compact, nice for a carry gun.  New this year they have developed a holster line that works specifically with their laser/lights and turns the laser on when you draw from the holster. Here is a link for the light I am diggin! http://www.viridiangreenlaser.com/viridian-ctl-tactical-light

The HIGH LIGHT of the day was meeting Kim Rhode 5 Time Olympic Champion in Shotgun Sports.  She is the most down to earth gal, so sweet and really genuine as she gave us tips on shooting and demonstrating the awesome TrAAcker shells that Winchester has introduced.  When working with new shooters having instant feedback makes a huge difference in their progress.  For pistol shooters it is hearing the "pa-ting" of hitting the steel... for Shotgunner it is seeing the clay break apart.  But when the clay doesn't break apart and you have no idea how far you missed it, it can be very frustrating.  The TraAAcker aides the student to see their "miss" and make corrections.  Really cool!  

Tom Given's Rangemaster Instructor Course

After a full week at the SHOT Show in Las Vegas, I had the opportunity to take the Rangemaster Level 1 Instructor course in Tucson.  It was on the way home to Austin and at the perfect time!

I have taken several classes as a student, but always tend to look at them from the instructors perspective on what I can add to my own knowledge tool box and pass on to my clients.  I was questioned recently on my life experiences (or lack there of since I have never been a victim of a violent crime or confronted with deadly force) and why I was qualified to be a firearms instructor, or even have an opinion on use of force issues.  I didn't entertain that question because I know who I am, what I know and why I do this job.  But is did inspire me to never have that question asked of me again, I want people to be able to look at my resume and be confident in who I am as an instructor, what I do for our shooting community and hopefully I will NEVER have a personal testimony of being a victim as part of that resume.

I had heard the written and qualification course was very challenging, that Tom's standards for his students are higher than that of the FBI, that I would have a ton of homework and have to teach a class.  I was extremely nervous on Day 1, but so excited to be a sponge.  I took 25 pages of typed notes!  I have been an instructor for almost 5 years for the TX Concealed Handgun License and teaching new gun owners in level 1& 2 skill sets, so I knew I was going to know some of the material presented.  What I was looking for was a fresh approach on how to present that material... and that was delivered as promised!  I am a civilian, I teach to civilians, and having the correct civilian perspective is vital.  I got all of that from this class and so much more.

Tom and Lynn Givens are the nicest people!  They run a very organized class, and the emphasis on safety was paramount.  I am not going to give a blow by blow after action report because I think if you are interested in taking the class you should have the opportunity to experience the way I did, from a fresh set of eyes and the surprise of several light bulb moments.

This course draws a wide variety.  In  my class there were several LEO and Military Instructors, and few like me that were teaching to civilians.  There were people who had never taken a formal training class even as a student (which kind of surprised me, but I guess it you want to be an instructor this would be as good of place as any to figure that out) and those that have years of teaching behind them.  I can say all of us learned something.

So good news.. I passed with a 95% on the written and a 92% on the shooting.  I was hoping to do a bit better on the range, but I was exhausted after SHOT show and had brain overload on everything I had just learned in the last 3 days.   I will take the 92%.

Gun Owners and Consumer Dollars

In Texas, Penal Code 30.06 is the legal notice for those with a Concealed Handgun License stating entry

on the property by a license holder with a concealed handgun was forbidden; or remaining on the property with a concealed handgun was forbidden and failed to depart.  When a retailer or restaurant places this

legal notice, I as a law abiding citizen must respect the law and not enter with my gun.  More importantly, I consider what are the consequences of going into a gun free zone if God forbid today is my “Luby’s day” (referring to the Luby’s massacre in Killeen TX with survivor Suzanna Hupp). I also think about my consumer dollars.  Why would I want to support a business that does not respect and support my right to self-protection and protection of my family?  Most of the time, I stop shopping at these retailers and will only go there if I have no other choices, get in and get out, and bring my knife and other non-lethal tools with me.

The Movie, Music, Games and TV industries has been very vocal about guns and violence again as of late, and I believe it is time to extend my 30.06 policy to them as well.  Why would I want to spend my consumer dollars to see movies that promote guns (with poor handling and skill sets at best) and violence, then have the actors and directors say I can’t have the very object they are glorifying.  Why would I listen to music that advocates gun violence just to have the artist scold me about my rights to own a high capacity magazine?  Why should I watch a TV show of ill behaved characters to have the actors tell me that I should behave better in my own life.  Enough is enough… they are right about that. 

Watch this video and pay attention to the faces in it.  Remember that the next time you are going to buy something of theirs, and support their body guards, high tech security systems, and the guns that protect them.  

It is not unreasonable that we should be outraged as a society over the epidemic of gun violence in our country.  But it is considerably lower than vehicle deaths and drug abuse, and let us not forget abortion.  Shall we look at what is influencing our society and the behavior of our citizens…. Movies, Music, Video Games and TV shows.  Pot calling the kettle black. 

There is an online resource I use frequently www.texas3006.com  It is a database of all business that post these signs. 

As for me and my consumer dollars... we will serve the Lord.  I am guilty of posting sarcastic political pictures and in your face morality issues.  Going forward I will do my very best to be a considerate member of society, respecting the rights of others, even when I disagree with them.  

2012 Year In Review

2012 has been a great year for me personally and professionally.  Looking at my year in review I can't believe this is my life!

The highlight of my training for 2012 was attending the Massad Ayoob Mag 40 course hosted at Gator Farms Tactical.  Not only did I gain knowledge about our legal system, I had my light bulb moment with some shooting techniques that I have been working on.  

It was a good year for working matches... and winning guns from the RO prize table.  I won a Seekins Precision AR at the Texas Multgun Match and a Glock 17 at the ProAm.  My hubby won an XD at the Texas State Tactical 3 Gun Precision Match, but I worked that match as well, so by proxy... I won that too!  Working matches has allowed me to meet so many wonderful people in our shooting community and learn about competitive shooting sports from a different angle.  I can't wait for the season to start again!  Maybe my gun luck will stick with me for a while longer.

A Girl and A Gun Women's Shooting League has grown beyond my wildest dreams.  My co-founder Renee Blaine and Membership Director Jennifer Galle have been a working hard behind the scenes keeping up with all my "adventurous" ideas.  We have a very dedicated Board of Directors, and an amazing leadership team building chapters and fulfilling our  mission.  Smith and Wesson is our presenting sponsor for our first annual AG & AG Conference at T.I.G.E.R. Valley in March 2013.  Members will be able to participate in two and half days of training at the range with some the best and brightest women in our industry.  And if that wasn't exciting enough, AG & AG will be launching International chapters in the United Kingdom and Argentina.   We have been blessed with many vendor partners and sponsors including Charter Arms that donated 2 revolvers for our members to win, Round 2 Brass that sponsored a STI Spartan and AR15Targets.com that donated an AR-15.  

I have to say I really love my job as a firearms instructor.   I take that title very seriously.  I am very aware that there are many more "qualified" individuals, many of whom have real world experience of serving our country or law enforcement.  What I have come to appreciate about what I do as an instructor is my ability to bring people in, change lives in small ways, and encourage continuing education beyond my skill sets.  I am extremely motivated to continue my education in 2013, and bring to my students more knowledge and opportunities to be responsible and educated gun owners.  Thank you to my friends, clients and of course my family for supporting me... even in my wildest moments.  I make myself tired, I can only imagine that I must exhaust everyone around me!

Happy New Year and hope to see you at the range soon!

Flashbang... The inside scoop!

Prelude- I first saw the flashbang holster almost 2 years ago in that familiar YouTube video I am sure you have seen.  I wasn’t sure how I felt about it, but after meeting Lisa Looper earlier this year, reading product reviews and now this awesome experience of getting a a few hours of  1:1 product demonstration, I am 100% a believer and my girls are supporters… or should I say the flashbang supports my girls.  More on this thought later.  Keep reading. 

Thursday July 26^th A Girl and A Gun Women’sShooting League launched the Oklahoma City Chapter, with Lisa Looper, creator of the Flashbang holster at the helm.  Before Jennifer Galle ( AG & AG Membership Director) and I made the drive home to Austin, we stopped in at the Looper Law Enforcement factory and were treated to a fabulous tour.  There are three generations of “Looper stuff” there and full of history.  One of the first things that turned on our “ooh and ahh” button was the old machines that lined a storage room walls that once made handbags and purses.  I am telling you this factory is a “pickers” dream and I joked with Lisa she should have one of those reality shows come for a visit. 

We got the full tour of how they make their leather products, starting with the sheets of cow hide, cutting, shaping and imprinting designs to the final products.  Then Lisa took us to this little space set aside for the Flashbang brand holsters.  Currently two very detailed orientated craftsmen and craftswoman named Brian and Rachelle are producing the entire line of Flashbang, Sophia, Marilyn, Annie and Betty holsters all created in concept by Lisa.   We watched them create a holster from a square piece of heated Kydex, formed around a mock gun, cut the excess Kydex away, and then smoothed the edges.  The smoothing is the most important part for proper function of the holster, and the most impressive to watch!  They put on the hardware and the holster is ready to go!  Mine was made on the spot, so of course I had Brian sign it! I would not be lying by saying that each holster is a one of kind!

We learned so much from Lisa about her flashbang holster and the correct way to wear it.  Jennifer (who is almost 6 months prego) and I stood at the table with all the aluminum mock up guns and took turns shoving different makes, models and calibers of guns including pocket pistols, subcompact, compact, full size and revolvers, into our bras (no holsters at this point) The key is making sure your bra is the correct size and is fitting snuggly, then position the gun high enough under the underwire of the bra.  THE HOLSTER AND THE GUN IS NOT MEANT TO DANGLE BELOW THE UNDERWIRE.  The holster and strap are there to offer retention and protect the gun from your body sweat and oils.  Your bra really does all the work to keep the gun in place.   Jennifer pictured below is wearing a compact sized pistol.  To be fair she is getting ready to tranistion to a better fitting bra thanks to the baby bump, but up close and personal I couldn't tell she had a gun in there. 

The retention strap can loop over the top or bottom, depending on how high you are wearing the holster in your bra, taking into consideration the design of the bra there are 3 straps that come in the packet.  If you need a longer strap, just contact Lisa and she will make a custom strap to be include in your order.   If you experience any issues with your snap, watch this tutorial and Lisa explains it all.  Again you will see the high quality materials used and the attention to detail for your safety. 

I have wanted to carry a Glock 26 for a long time, but have not because I have issues with being able to conceal that gun on my hip and or finding a comfortable  In The Waist Band front pelvis carry.  I am now the proud owner of a Flashbang holster for a Glock 26 that fits extremely well on my body, and is not noticeable on my frame.  I talked to several of my gun loving gal pals prior to this tour that were on the fence about this holster due to their size and shape, or fear that the girls would not be supported well, extra weight, etc.  Well ladies, I can tell you that not only were my 40 DDs supported and comfortable, they also got an extra lift!  Not sure what size Lisa is, nor would I tell because that is her place to share… but I will say that she is similar in size and shape to some of my gal pals, and Lisa was very quick to point out that her girls look fuller when she is wearing her holster.  Just saying…. 

So with some proper understanding that you must wear this holster high under the wire of the bra, don’t be afraid to cant the muzzle down just a smidge to help conceal the grip, and getting down the snap mechanics, this is the most awesome holster I have ever owned. 

We are excited to announce that Lisa will be at our First Annual A Girl and A Gun Conference March 22-24 2013 and will be teaching break out sessions on how to wear the holster and you will be able to have live fire training as well.  Her sessions will book up fast, so make sure to register early.  Registration will be available on our website very soon.   

**There will not be any male instructors or range officers participating in her sessions at the conference, so you will be able to ask questions, get up close and personal and get in some high quality training time. 

There Is No Crying In 3 Gun (He-Man National Championship)

Prepare for Glory

Day one of the RO shoot for the 2012 He-Man National Championship in Raton New Mexico, I had identified my weak spots, acknowledged what I need to practice, and set my mind that I would finish this match to the best of my current ability.  Day two of the RO shoot started off with a stage that used all three guns.   So I step up to the line with my rifle slung across my back, pistol on my hip and shotgun in my hand.  I have to get two slugs mixed in with a bunch of stationary clays… a bit of strategy stress!  Time goes beep… miss… pa-ding!  Transition… pa-ding!  Oh my goodness I hit the 2 slugs with 3 shots, oh crap I still have one more slug in the gun.  So I decide to rack it out all authoritative like and move along to the clays.  In the moment of extreme pride and elation I short cycled my shotgun… several times, kicking round after round out, waisting time and therefore tanking my mental game.  I lost focus, got flustered and basically “FUBR” the rest of the stage that started out so promising.

 

"And then I got upset and started to tear up.
What? There is no crying in 3 Gun!"

I did nail the pistol targets, three of them were 40-50 yards away, and those “pa-dings” made me feel better.  But I had to finish up the stage with 12 long range rifle shots from two different positions.  I was very aware this would be an issue even if I didn’t FUBR the first part of this stage.  Well I timed out at 300 seconds,  8 fail to engage, and then the misses to go along with it.  I was devastated.  My husband John was coaching me saying “there is nothing you can do about it now, what’s done is done”.  I knew what went wrong and why.  And then I got upset and started to tear up.  What?  There is no crying in 3 Gun!  I had a flash of Tom Hanks from the movie a League of their own.  (Not saying that John was yelling at me by any stretch)  I just had this overwhelming emotion of frustration and I wanted to cry.   Worst part, it was all on video!  Ugh.   I am supposed to be a role model, a good example, a motivator and I just tanked this stage.  What the heck!!!!

This was a learning moment.   I put aside the feeling of embarrassment because I know I could have done that stage much better with my current ability.  I owned the fact that I timed out and didn’t finish.  I swallowed the tears and didn’t make another excuse.   I decided I will share the video as an example (profanity and all).  I am a role model, a good example and motivator.  My entire mission is to get more women into the shooting sports not with the expectation to be a Julie, Maggie, Diana, Kay, Katie, Athena, the list of exceptional women shooters goes on and one, but the expectation to get out there, try something new, be the best shooter I can be and be proud knowing I am doing something that only a handful of women across the country are doing.   This learning moment was to remind me that I am ok.  That the image of being a “bad ass” is not the goal, being the image of “yes I can” is my goal.    I will save the crying for movies. 

Sidenote- video of this stage coming soon. 

Don't Color Code Your Underpants

Don't color code your pants, yellow in the front... brown in the back!  Pay attention and listen up!

Most people have heard of the color codes of mental awareness.  What most people don't know is that there is a military version and a civilian version.  Because I like to teach from the "everyday person" perspective here is a review these color codes as they apply to the private citizen. 

• WHITE- unprepared, not alert to the symptoms of violence
• YELLOW- relaxed alertness and preparedness

• ORANGE- unspecified alert, something wrong but we don’t know what it is yet.  Perceived threat.
• RED- armed encounter, you are facing one or more people that you believe have the potential to take your life
• BLACK- lethal assault in progress

Cheat sheet version is this:

• Orange- attacker might be there
• Red-  attacker is there
• Black- attacker is carrying out unlawful action

There is a direct connection between your level awareness, how prepared you are to handle the threat, and if it was appropriate compared to the "Standard of Proof".  These standards of actions compare directly to the color codes of mental awareness

• WHITE- mere suspicion- belief that is not founded in authentically fact
• YELLOW-  articulated suspicion- can you explain why you did what you did, what you saw OR experienced
• ORANGE- probable cause- higher suspicion, not proof.  Less than 50% certainty
• RED- preponderance of evidence, 51% certainty
• BLACK- Beyond a reasonable doubt

Self presentation is one of the keys to avoiding criminal confrontation.  Bad guys can sense the difference between an easy prey target and one that will fight back or is prepared.  There is something in the way we walk, talk, look, etc.  Pay attention to what is going on around you and present yourself in a confident manner, and you reduce your risk substantially. 

Be safe my friends, and take control of your own personal safety.

What Do You Think?

I wrote this blog May 2012 after I attend an intensive training course from The Massad Ayoob Group , published it but didn't promote it.  In the current climate of gun control debates, this blog takes on a new point of view and discussion pathway: 

What do you think public opinion would be or what would you think if you were on a jury hearing a case on use of force/deadly force and this statement was entered in to evidence against a young woman:

I had 2 more miles to walk to get home, I knew that by how fast I could walk it would be about the same time he made bail and he would be looking for me.

When I got home I decided to load my shotgun and just wait for him.  I was nervous, and mad as hell that I allowed this to happen to myself.  He slapped me, he shook me, but not anymore.  He thinks he is a man, and thinks picking fights with me makes him a bigger man.  Well I am ready to give him a fight.  So I waited and smoked a cigarette.

He didn’t get there as fast as I thought he would, it got late so I started drinking bear.  One maybe two six-packs of beer.  All of a sudden I heard his truck.  I could tell how fast he was driving by the sound of the tires skidding to a stop on the gravel driveway.  He slammed his car door and was ready to let me have it, but he didn’t know I was waiting for him on the other side of the door with my shotgun.  His thought his fist was big, but my shotgun was bigger and it was over. 

I am guessing that public opinion would be somewhat harsh.  I would expect her to get an easier consideration by some because it is a woman, but none the less I would expect some outrage and distress. 

Whenever I hear the song by Miranda Lambert “Gunpowder and Lead” (lyrics below) I think about how this would play out in court… thinking that most likely the abused woman would be sitting in jail.  I also cringe just a little hoping that someone in that situation doesn't hear this song and think it is a good plan.  Now I love Miranda Lambert, and agree that the song has a beat you tap your toe to… but can’t help but feel that it is a poor example of someone using force/deadly force to protect themselves.  There are several musicians that are singing about shooting and killing unfaithful lovers, abusers, or rival gangs.  No matter how you package it (country, rap or pop) this is allowing people at some level to be desensitized on the seriousness of using deadly force.  That is until they hear about a case on the news and then criticize the victim for doing it. 

If you have not done so in the last 3 months, look up the chapters of Self Defense, Use of Force and Deadly Force of the penal code in your state.  I encourage people to read and reread this content every few months so it is always front and center in your brain on when you can and cannot act.  You also need to be able to explain what you did based on your understanding of the law and the circumstances in that moment.  In all fairness, I have never been a victim of domestic violence, and feel very strongly on empowering women, but waiting for your abuser at home with a loaded shotgun and drinking beer will mostly not end well for you.  If you need help please reach out to your local and national resources before it is too late. 

On the web:

Miranda Lamber and Chris Brown Grammy fued http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/entertainment/2012/02/chris-brown-and-miranda-lambert-twitter-feud-continues/

Also read comments from Miranda Lambert at  http://www.songfacts.com/detail.php?id=11635

" GUNPOWDER AND LEAD"

County Road 233 under my feet
Nothin' on this white rock but little ol' me
I got two miles till he makes bail
And if I'm right we're headed straight for hell

I'm goin' home, gonna load my shotgun
Wait by the door and light a cigarette
He wants a fight well now he's got one
He ain't seen me crazy yet
Slapped my face and he shook me like a rag doll
Don't that sound like a real man
I'm gonna show him what a little girl's made of
Gun powder and lead

Well it's half past ten
Another six pack in
I can feel the rumble like the cold black wind
He pulls in the drive
Gravel flies
He don't know what's waitin' here this time

Hey I'm goin' home, gonna load my shotgun
Wait by the door and light a cigarette
He wants a fight well now he's got one
And he ain't seen me crazy yet
Slapped my face and he shook me like a rag doll
Don't that sound like a real man
I'm gonna show him what a little girl's made of
Gun powder and lead

His fist is big but my gun's bigger
He'll find out when I pull the trigger

I'm goin' home, gonna load my shotgun
Wait by the door and light a cigarette
He wants a fight well now he's got one
And he ain't seen me crazy yet
Slapped my face and he shook me like a rag doll
Don't that sound like a real man
I'm gonna show him what a little girl's made of
Gun powder and gun powder and lead
Gun powder and lead

The Massad Ayoob Experience

This whole firearms thing doesn't come natural for me.  Everything I have learned the past 10 years about guns, equipment, mindset I have worked hard to gain.  I think of  myself as a professional student, or at least a sponge once a topic peaks my interest!  So the last 18 months I have been on a training binge... and at the top of my list for 2012 was to take a course by Massad Ayoob.  Thanks to Kathy Jackson of The Corned Cat for giving me the heads up on a contest hosted by Vicki Willhite of Gator Farms Tactical,  I was the lucky winner, and the prize was a MAG40 course with Massad Ayoob!!!  PLUS a Whitedog Holster & Mag pouch, AND 500 rounds of ammo...PAYDIRT!

Low Crouch... and check out my Whitedog Holster

 This four day 40 hour course was amazing.  I was comfortable with in the course because I had been exposed to a great deal of the material that was being presented, but it was a gift to have it explained in detail and clarified.  The material that I was after was the how, when and why to use force/deadly force and then how to handle the aftermath.  I ended up taking 36 pages of notes over 10,000 words, which I am in the process of reviewing and organizing.  The experience I shared with 23 other students is one that I would recommend EVERYONE have.  If you are a law abiding gun owner, you need this course. 

Mas demonstrating 1 of 3 shooting stances

The MAG 40 course includes range time learning the basic techniques developed by Mas and other industry leaders.  Again, techniques I was familiar with, but explanations, tweaks and the permission to figure out which techniques worked best for me and time to fine tune the skill sets. 

60 round qualification.  Perfect Score 300, my score 293.  High Lady and Top 5 in the class!  I had a few dropped "crotch shots" when transitioned to the low kneel.  Darn it!

Mas will be teaching several more classes in 2012, and I am working on bringing him to Central Texas in 2013.  He has given me permission to share some of the information with people I care about (that would be you).  I am looking forward to sharing the quotes and tidbits over the next few months, but there is no substitution for taking the course yourself.  If you own a gun (or any other tool to defend you life) and are prepared to use it for self defense... TAKE THIS COURSE! 

How To Get Women Into The Gun Concept

This has been a hot topic of conversation for several months now, making national news of the record breaking number of women purchasing guns and getting concealed carry permits.  There has also been an increase in the number of women seeking training in general self-defense tactics. 

Still there remains an “antigun” biases with a large population of women.  Some refer to it as the Suzy Homemaker Issue.  Women have achieved being equals in our culture, but many still hold on to the thought process that the gun is the symbol of male violence and therefore something they want nothing to do with, even something they allow themselves to fear.  It is a topic discussed by Susan Brown Miller in her book Against our Will.  I acknowledge that there was a time and place in our history that that may have been true.  But in today’s modern progressive society especially where a woman may very well be the head of her own household, the gun is a tool just like any other.  It is not about male or female, it is about empowerment.  As women we take on the role of Mother Bear to protect our cubs.  We don’t have claws or teeth as does a real mother bear, so we need to get them artificially… guns, knives, kubatans, pepper spray, stun guns… these are all forms of claws and teeth we use to protect ourselves and our loved ones. 

What I ask of all women is that you give yourself every opportunity to learn, grow and thrive in all ways possible.  Learning to handle firearms for sport shooting or otherwise is a very empowering adventure and it changes your perception of “self”.  It is very important for women to have positive female role models in the firearms industry.  I strongly encourage you when seeking out a firearms training course, that you look for one that has a female role model on staff rather than an overall male environment.  Especially if you are new and feeling timid.  Knowing that there is someone like you teaching from a similar perspective will ease the experience. 

It might not be for you, it might turn out to be the most exciting experience you have ever had, but it will spark a feeling inside you of YES I CAN.  Take that and use it in your life.  Learn… Grow… Thrive!

Resources for Women in the Firearms Industry

·         Kathy Jackson- The cornered cat

·         Gila Hayes- Effective Defense, The woman the plan and the gun, Personal defense for woman

·         Paxton Quigley- Armed and Female

I invested a lot of time in myself in 2011 taking classes from several instructors, most of them National Champions in the competitive shooting sports of IDPA and USPSA.   I learned how to be a better competitor for sure, but I what I learned over the past 7 years participating in competitive shooting sports is how to be in control of my gun under stress, which has helped me, leaps and bounds to understand my self-defense preparation and mindset.

There are arguments that participating in competitive shooting sports does not prepare someone for a life or death situation, but I can attest that I have working muscle memory to know if I am shooting the gun accurately or not.  I also am aware how slow or quick my reaction times are, and I have a strong sense of confidence and trust that I know what I am doing with my gun, which we know is a very important component when choosing self-defense tools.  

I encourage my clients and friends all the time to seek out training.  If you are going to keep a gun at home or carry a gun on your body, wear a knife, or depend on your hand to hand skills to help you out in a crisis situation where you are the target of a crime, you have to get training and you have to practice.  For the average citizen, the competitive shooting sports offers up a safe and affordable place to practice holster work, figure out your gear and learn how to work through malfunctions and get back in the fight.   But most important... it is just a whole lot of fun! 

Silencers Are Legal

PASSING ALONG...



Silencerco and the American Silencer Association is putting on the first annual Silencers Are Legal Shoot in Dallas Texas on Saturday, April 28, 2012.  This event promises to be one of the most exciting and educational live fire events of the year. Bring your personal firearms and have the opportunity to test various manufactures suppressors on it. All live fire at this will be suppressed and no unsuppressed fire will be allowed.  Proceeds from this event will benefit the American Silencer Association.

WHEN

Saturday, April 28, 2012, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

WHERE
10751 Luna Road
Dallas, TX 75220
www.elmfork.com

WHAT
Testing products from silencer and firearm manufacturers
Learn about silencer ownership
Raffles for a chance to win products
There will be vendor booths selling firearms, ammo and accessories.

Accomodations
For our out of town guests, a discounted group rate at the Dallas/Fort Worth Airport Marriot will be available from April 27-29. Click here to book at the discounted group rate.

• Must be 18 to attend the event.
• Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian.
• If you have children, the minimum age is 5 and the minimum age for shooting is 12.

For more information please visit:

www.silencersarelegal.com

Common Sense Ways to Stay Safe

Ever wonder how you made it through your teen and college years?  I have looked back at that time of my life with amazement on how I avoided being a victim of rape or violent crime.  I thought I was invincible for sure, but I also remember having a few panic moments praying to God that if he got me through this one, I wouldn’t be so stupid next time.

Women age 18-24 are at the highest risk for being assaulted.   But women of all ages need to recognize how important it is to be aware of the risks, and live a lifestyle that takes responsibility for your own safety.    It is a huge misconception that the police are there to protect us, or that superman will appear in our time of need.    I would like to think that if I were being assaulted or mugged, that someone would help me.  I also know that there are more people not willing to get involved because of the risk of liability, the fear they have for their own safety, or their inability to really do anything because they are unprepared as well. 

So it is up to you.  There are many options that include lethal and non-lethal methods: Firearms, knives, kubatons, pepper spray, hand to hand, and the big one… self presentation and being aware of your surroundings. 

Here are some fantastic tips from www.rainn.org that are focused on traveling on Spring Break vacation, but are also things you can do as you travel in your own community, going to and from work, or just a night out on the town. 

1. Trust your instincts. If you feel unsafe in any situation, go with your gut. If you feel uncomfortable or something doesn’t feel right, leave and get to a safe place immediately. If someone is pressuring you, it’s better to lie and make up a reason to leave than to stay and be uncomfortable, scared, or worse.

2. Protect your location on Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare etc. Think twice before sharing every detail of your spring break on Facebook and Twitter. Despite security settings, posting information about your whereabouts or activities can still reveal details that are accessible to the public. Use your best judgment when “checking-in” on Facebook or Foursquare and be cautious of revealing personal information through status updates or tweets with Twitter trends like #Spring Break and #SB2012.

3. Get Local. Know your accommodation address and the safest routes to and from your local destinations. Have the number for local cab companies on hand and always keep enough cash on you to take a taxi home. Know who to contact in the event of an emergency, such as 911 or local authorities. If traveling internationally, have the contact information for the U.S. Embassy with you.

4. Be a good friend and stick together. Arrive together, check in with one another throughout the night, and leave together. Think twice about going off alone; if you have to separate from your friends, let them know where you are going and who you are with. If something seems questionable or someone is acting aggressively, don’t be afraid to intervene. By speaking up, you may help prevent your friend from being the victim (or perpetrator) of a crime.

5. Don’t let your guard down. A spring break destination can create a false sense of security among vacationers. Don't assume that fellow spring breakers will look out for your best interests; remember they are essentially strangers.

6. Use your cell phone as a tool. If you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, shoot a quick text for a "friend-assist." Make a back-up plan before you go out just in case your phone dies. If you are traveling internationally, buy a pay-as-you-go phone or contact your cell phone provider to activate international coverage during your trip.

7. Drink responsibly and know your limits. Always watch your drink being prepared, and, when possible, buy drinks in bottles. If you lose sight of your drink or believe it might have been tampered with, throw it out and get a new one. If you or a friend seem too intoxicated for the amount of alcohol consumed or you suspect that someone has been drugged, get to a hospital.

About RAINN

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization and was named one of "America's 100 Best Charities" by Worth magazine. RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotlines (800.656.HOPE and online.rainn.org) in partnership with more than 1,100 local rape crisis centers across the country and operates the DoD Safe Helpline for the Department of Defense. The hotlines have helped more than 1.6 million people since 1994. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help victims and ensure that rapists are brought to justice. For more information about RAINN, please visit rainn.org.

This is the face of women and guns... who is listening?

Self esteem, empowerment, confidence... words that are always closely associated with women and girls. It is how we see our self, how others judge us by our actions or in actions, and the constant image that is projected by media, political agendas, even how products are marketed to us. Lets talk about my market... the firearms industry. I am a bit bothered that in this current explosion of women and guns, there is a strange mix of empowerment and belittling happening at the same time. For sure the firearms industry wants our consumer dollars, and our husbands are jumping for joy because if mama is buying guns, then the chances go up for hubby to buy more guns too. But there is a constant image of half naked women holding guns wrong, and snickers about pink guns or painted backstraps, even disrespect at the gun counter that separates us from really participating in the mainstream. What has been missed in this entire equation is how women really relate to their guns, which is a direct connection to their self esteem, sense of empowerment and confidence, as it applies in this discussion of women and guns. 

I have a nice glimpse of this social experience. A Girl and A Gun Women's Shooting League has connected me with hundreds of women, all different stages of life and reasons for participating in shooting activities. No matter if it is a woman I meet in person at the range, or the gal I meet on Facebook across the country, we are all bonding in a sisterhood, the common interest of shooting guns because it is fun and we can invoke our own style. It has nothing to do with if we shoot a pink gun (or my color of choice... purple). It has nothing to do with the color of our range bag or the bling on the earmuffs... it has everything to do with personal connections and how those personal touches makes us feel. The explosion of women and guns is a direct connection with the fact that we are embracing "girly" behaviour along side learning a skill set that enables self esteem to blossom into the empowerment and confidence to walk into the gun store, step up to the line or join the discussion.

 

I am proud to be in this community of women (and the men who support us). The talent in the leadership is amazing, the women who are stepping out are inspirational, and the relationships are priceless. This is the face of women and guns... who is listening?

What A Year!

What a year!

2011 I had a vision spark in my mind of how I could get more women to the range with me, February 28^th I invited some friends to the range… November 2011 we hosted a major camp instructed by National Champion Shooters.  Then on February 28, 2012 a full year since our first Girl’s Night Out, AG & AG gave away $6000 worth of products and services to almost 300 members.  WHO DOES THAT! Two wacky gals name Julianna Crowder and Renee Blaine deep in the heart of Texas, and with the help of motivated women across the country who shares our vision. 

2011 was certainly the year of the woman in the firearms industry.  2012 is looking to be even more promising with products that are being developed to accommodate the female shooter.  The trends are showing that more women are packing heat for self-defense which is awesome.  The trend AG & AG would like to inspire is to get those women out to the range for practice, then on to competitive shooting sports where the real fun happens. 

AG & AG has been received warmly by our colleagues in the firearms industry, and they are supporting our efforts to get more women to the range.  What everyone doesn’t know yet is that we plan to revolutionize the competitive shooting world.  How you ask… well I can’t tell you that right now because it is a works in progress.  The firearms industry is changing, I can say with confidence having a new surge of women in the think tank, it will change in ways that is unexpected, and it will be a wonderful beautiful experience. 

Mark your calendars now February 15-17 2013

Thoughts That Cross My Mind On Road Trips,,,

Thursday March 8^th I was on my  to League City for Girl’s Night Out with my Houston Chapter of A Girl and A Gun Women’s Shooting League.  I was flipping thru the radio and I landed a conservative talk radio and heard some more back and forth on the “pay for my birth control” issue.  When I lost that station, I found a country station.  The next song up was “God Bess the USA” (aka Proud to be an American) by Len Greenwood.  I started to sing along, mind drifting to around the music, when the lyrics hit. 

If tomorrow all the things were gone,
I’d worked for all my life.
And I had to start again,
with just my children and my wife.

I’d thank my lucky stars,
to be livin here today.
‘ Cause the flag still stands for freedom,
and they can’t take that away.

The hamster in my brain took off on a marathon.  My interpretation of starting over in today’s terms would be if we had economic or social collapse and we need to figure out how to survive (Little House on the Prairie time).  And the statement about being free, well are we really free anymore?   There is so much government telling us what to do and trying to control other aspects of our freedoms given to us by our constitution.   I choose not to debate in major political conversations… anymore… but I do voice what is important to me, and what I think it means to be free.  The wonderful and sometimes backstabbing reality of being free is that everyone gets to be right in their opinions and have their say. 

My point here is how interesting it was to me that a song that was released in the early 80’s stood for something relevant at the time, and now, for me, the words mean something VERY different. 

Why Women Should Join A Shooting League

Reposted from Rounds and Roses,

Why should women join a local shooting league?

Posted on February 2, 2012 by CathiBray@RoundsandRoses

 

Well, the simple answer to the title question is: Some women don’t go to the bathroom alone in a restaurant; what makes anyone think they would go shoot by themselves?

In fact, many women do shoot by themselves when necessary, but being the social creatures that we are, it’s just much more fun to go with other women.

And after a basic instructional class, I think a league is one of the most important things new women shooters can do, because it helps to keep you in the practice loop. As busy as everyone is these days, it is sometimes hard to set aside the time to go to the range; so being part of a league has many benefits, some of which are:

1. There is usually a fee to join the league, and if we are going to pay for something, we usually are more likely to do it.
2. There is accountability from having a certain day and time to be at the range.
3. It’s an easy way to find other women who like to shoot and who might join you at other times.
4. You can get help with issues you are having, or give help to someone who is just starting out.

I’ve been to the range many times lately, where I’ve seen a woman shooting with a few men and have approached her to talk about our women’s events. Every time, she has been thrilled to find out there are other ladies who like to shoot and fun events to join in on.

So check with your local range to see if there are women’s leagues already there, but if not, think about starting one yourself. There are many leagues around that have “franchised” to areas outside their own and will be more than happy to help you get started. Let me know if you need some suggestions.

And if you have been a member of a league, please leave a comment and let us know why you joined and what you got out of it.
See you at the range!