Beginning with the premise that having a gun and not knowing how to use it properly is more dangerous than not having a gun, I began my training with Ruel, a consultant for Entreprise Arms.
My prior experience with the Buzz Lightyear ride at Disneyland didn’t quite count. Nor do video game shooting experiences. We started from the beginning.
Safety was stressed every step of the way.
We traveled to Burro Canyon Shooting Range in Azusa in the Angeles National Forest, which is currently under expansion. The sound of various types of shots being fired could be heard echoing through the canyon.
Prior to even bringing out the guns, I was given ear muffs to block the sound and was wearing sunglasses for eye protection.
The first gun I was introduced to was a 9 mm out of the box, another 9 mm tuned for competitive shooting, and then a 45 with a laser. The numbers correspond to the bullet size with the metric measurement being of European origination while the 45 was an American measurement, which didn’t seem quite as large as I imagined.
Ruel instructed me to the proper way to stand, hold the gun and utilize the site to target accurately. Gripping the hand gun, I locked it in between both hands as they pulled in opposing directions while the index finger remained loose to pull the trigger. Each of the guns felt entirely different. The trigger, the kick, the way it felt in my hand.
When my grip changed a bit, the gun vibrated in my hand as the energy from pulling the trigger traveled through to my arms.
With each pull of the trigger, I became more confident as I knew what to expect. The kick no longer surprised me.
Prior to my next encounter, I’ll strengthen my wrists and be prepared for a bath to loosen up the infrequently used muscles in my shoulders.
Self Defense and Fire Arms Options – Tasers and Gun Safety
“Why do you want to buy a gun?” is one of the first questions you’ll be asked when you walk into a gun store and ask to buy one.
Having a gun and not knowing how to use it is more dangerous than not having a gun.
Prior to embarking on the entire training process of gun ownership, I wondered about other options besides pepper spray and martial arts or self defense classes.
Ruel, a consultant for Entreprise Arms, directed me to a Taser at Turner’s Outdoorsman. Using compressed nitrogen, two small probes are projected and an electrical signal is transmitted where the probes make contact with the body or clothing.
Unlike a gun, where some may feel reluctance to use, the Taser does not have the same associations attached, and when used is painful and can incapacitate. We’ve heard that once shown a Taser, many will surrender, knowing that there is not the same hesitation as a gun. The initial cost of nearly $1000 for the Taser is probably a main reason this self defense tool is not more popular by the general public.
The Taser is shaped similar to a gun, and in your hand, may be confused as such…giving others, including law enforcement officials, a reason to shoot.
Looking back at the guns, Ruel directed me to a shooting range where I might be able to try various types of guns. By doing that, I would be able to get the feel of various types of guns which would further assist in narrowing down the choices.
Safety was stressed each step of the way. Following are basic gun safety rules from the State of California’s Office of the Attorney General, Firearms Division.
THE SIX BASIC GUN SAFETY RULES
There are six basic gun safety rules for gun owners to understand and practice at all times:
- Treat all guns as if they are loaded. Always assume that a gun is loaded even if you think it is unloaded. Every time a gun is handled for any reason, check to see that it is unloaded. If you are unable to check a gun to see if it is unloaded, leave it alone and seek help from someone more knowledgeable about guns.
- Keep the gun pointed in the safest possible direction. Always be aware of where a gun is pointing. A "safe direction" is one where an accidental discharge of the gun will not cause injury or damage. Only point a gun at an object you intend to shoot. Never point a gun toward yourself or another person.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Always keep your finger off the trigger and outside the trigger guard until you are ready to shoot. Even though it may be comfortable to rest your finger on the trigger, it also is unsafe. If you are moving around with your finger on the trigger and stumble or fall, you could inadvertently pull the trigger. Sudden loud noises or movements can result in an accidental discharge because there is a natural tendency to tighten the muscles when startled. The trigger is for firing and the handle is for handling.
- Know your target, its surroundings and beyond. Check that the areas in front of and behind your target are safe before shooting. Be aware that if the bullet misses or completely passes through the target, it could strike a person or object. Identify the target and make sure it is what you intend to shoot. If you are in doubt, DON'T SHOOT! Never fire at a target that is only a movement, color, sound or unidentifiable shape. Be aware of all the people around you before you shoot.
- Know how to properly operate your gun. It is important to become thoroughly familiar with your gun. You should know its mechanical characteristics including how to properly load, unload and clear a malfunction from your gun. Obviously, not all guns are mechanically the same. Never assume that what applies to one make or model is exactly applicable to another. You should direct questions regarding the operation of your gun to your firearms dealer, or contact the manufacturer directly.
- Store your gun safely and securely to prevent unauthorized use. Guns and ammunition should be stored separately. When the gun is not in your hands, you must still think of safety. Use a California-approved firearms safety device on the gun, such as a trigger lock or cable lock, so it cannot be fired. Store it unloaded in a locked container, such as a California-approved lock box or a gun safe. Store your gun in a different location than the ammunition. For maximum safety you should use both a locking device and a storage container.
