ShootingClasses.com Blog

Rotating and Culling Carry Ammunition

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 19:46:41 -0500

Recently, I've come across numerous social media posts discussing how often one should rotate their carry ammunition. Many suggest a specific timeframe, such as every six months. However, during a recent training class, I learned a method that I believe is more effective, based on real-world experiences. Additionally, I want to share some techniques I've used for several years to evaluate carry ammo against specific criteria before trusting my life to it. Let’s dive in.

Carry Ammo Preparation

I'm assuming you have already selected your brand of carry ammunition, so I won't spend much time on this subject, as there is a plethora of information available. Law enforcement agencies and ammunition manufacturers have invested significant resources in extensive testing of common types of carry ammunition. Use these tests to help guide your choices. Since 2007, I have exclusively carried Speer Gold Dot or Federal HST. There isn’t an appreciable advantage to one over the other, except for availability; sometimes, one is in stock when the other is not.

Always test your specific carry gun with the magazines you will carry, using the ammunition you intend to use. This evaluation not only verifies reliability but also checks the point of aim and point of impact if you are using iron sights. If you're using a pistol-mounted optic, take this opportunity to zero it with your carry ammunition. How much carry ammo should you fire to verify reliability? For me, that number is 200 rounds. If you can shoot more, that's even better.

I advise caution when selecting "specialty" ammunition with catchy names and projectiles designed to fragment or have petals that tear off into multiple pieces. It is best to choose something that is tried and true. For reasons that will become clearer later in this article, I purchase my carry ammo in cases of 1,000 rounds, and when stored correctly, it can last me a few years while remaining reliable. Now, let's get to the main points.

Rotating Ammunition

In addition to rotating your ammunition every six months or once a year, have you ever considered how many times a particular round has been chambered in your carry pistol and why this is important? Early in my law enforcement career, I had a co-worker who would unload his weapon at the end of his shift and reload it when returning to duty. One time, while at the range, he showed me a round that he had chambered and rechambered day after day. I was shocked to see how much the projectile was set back into the brass. Although I didn't have calipers to measure it, it was evident that the setback was significant enough to pose a danger. I cautioned him against firing it because it was a .40 S\&W high-pressure duty round. At that time, we only qualified with our carry ammunition once a year and issued fresh rounds for the following year. Consequently, he had cycled that particular round hundreds of times.

From then on, I decided if I noticed a setback in my primary round, I would discontinue using it. However, when I attended my first class with Tom Givens, he shared some information that I found very interesting. He cited a case involving a law enforcement officer who cycled the same round through his duty gun multiple times, much like my friend. This officer also unloaded his gun at the end of every shift and reloaded it before returning to duty.

During a use-of-force situation, the officer attempted to fire his weapon, but the round did not discharge. Fortunately, he was able to perform an immediate action drill and resolve the situation. Upon returning the inert round to the ammunition manufacturer for examination, they determined that repeated chambering had knocked the priming compound out of the primer. The compound then sifted through the flash hole in the primer pocket, rendering the round inoperative.

Since attending that class, I've adopted Tom's advice. Whenever I eject a round to dry fire or clean my carry gun, I mark the head of the case with a line using a Sharpie. If I eject the same round a second time, I add another mark, forming a cross to make it more distinctive. When a round has two lines on it, the next time I eject it, I load it into the bottom of my magazine. Once all the rounds in my primary magazine have two marks, I transfer them to my spare magazine. When I need to rotate in more ammunition because all the rounds have two marks, they are added to my training stash. Many instructors recommend using your carry rounds in low-light classes to observe the muzzle flash in the dark; I reserve these marked rounds for that purpose.

Culling Carry Ammo

Many assume that because defensive ammunition costs a premium, so it must undergo extra quality control measures and be flawless when it leaves the factory. However, after participating in extensive training courses that required duty ammunition, I have witnessed enough round failures to raise concerns.

When I first started at my previous agency, I heard the story of an officer who, during qualification a few months earlier, experienced a failure to fire with the duty ammo he was using. Instinctively, he performed an immediate action drill. When he pulled the trigger on the next round, the pistol was locked up. It was later determined that the first round had no powder in it. The primer had just enough force to push the bullet into the barrel, causing it to lodge there.

The subsequent live round firing pushed the projectile out when he performed the immediate action drill. However, the pressure generated from this action caused a swell in the barrel, which seized the slide and barrel together. As a result, his pistol was rendered useless until the officer returned the gun to the factory for repairs. It's important to note that while the ammunition manufacturer would cover the damages, the process would take several months to resolve. This situation is worth considering when deciding whether or not to carry a backup weapon.

Listening to the officer tell his story triggered my reloader instincts. I've been reloading my handgun ammunition since I was 14 and have developed quality control measures over the years. While many people use similar methods, I will discuss how you can adapt these techniques to carry ammunition.

At the police department, we ordered our ammunition for the year in January after receiving our new budget. We typically qualified in May or June, which meant the ammunition would arrive and sit in storage for a few months before we qualified with the previous year's ammo and issued the new supplies for duty. We didn't shoot only once a year; we conducted the state-mandated CPOST qualification course annually, while our monthly training used training ammunition.

During the interim period between the ammunition's arrival and qualification, I conducted two quality control checks on each round before issuing it to officers. These checks helped maximize their chances of functioning reliably.

Quality Control Checks

The first test is straightforward and doesn't require much equipment. I ran each round through a case gauge. I chose to use a case gauge instead of a plunk test in a barrel because the tolerances of a case gauge are made to SAAMI specifications. This check ensures that, as long as a chamber is within spec, the round of ammunition will fit. Testing rounds used in various pistols can be problematic since one chamber may have looser tolerances. Even if a round fits in one barrel, it may not fit in another that conforms to closer tolerances. Removing the barrel and performing a plunk test is acceptable for rounds intended for a single gun.

The next test is a bit more complex. I take one round from the new lot and use a collet puller in a single-stage reloading press to remove the projectile. I empty the powder from the case and then place the projectile and primed case on my reloading scale, zeroing the weight. After gauging the rounds, I weigh the loaded rounds on the scale. In theory, this gives me the weight of the powder charge in the case.

I say "in theory" because there are considerable tolerances when you factor in the weight of the projectile, brass, and primer. We're not testing for precision ammunition here; we need to ensure enough powder in the cartridge to guarantee reliable and relatively consistent performance. If a round weighs one grain less or more than the average, I'll set it aside as training ammo.

While these techniques aren't foolproof, they can significantly enhance your confidence in your self-defense system with only a minimal commitment of time and resources. By implementing these strategies, you can achieve greater peace of mind, knowing you have taken proactive steps toward reliability.

Interested in taking a firearms class near you? Trainers, register as a shooting instructor today.

Maximize Your Personal Safety with Proven Executive Protection Strategies

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 18:20:13 -0500

You might look at the title of this article and wonder, “What do I have in common with those who safeguard dignitaries or high-profile celebrities?” The truth is, not all executive protection agents operate in teams; many rely heavily on their instincts individually to ensure the safety of their clients and themselves.

Qualified executive protection practitioners possess two types of skills: soft skills and hard skills. Hard skills are what most people typically associate with this profession, such as shooting, defensive tactics, physical fitness, medical training, and driving skills. However, true professionals in the industry take pride in their soft skills.

In my early 20s, I was drawn to the allure of this profession, shaped by my misconceptions about the job from movies. However, after enrolling in several courses and conducting extensive research, I discovered that a career in law enforcement, particularly within a tactical unit, aligned better with my skills and passions at that time.

Interestingly, the very elements of executive protection that initially deterred me ultimately became invaluable in my training of future clients. I learned that if an agent must physically confront a threat or draw a weapon, it signifies a failure in their duties. It would make sense that a person concerned for their own security and that of their family would prefer to recognize the signs of a potential threat before it escalates, thus avoiding confrontation altogether, just like the executive protection agent.

This article will focus on the soft skills necessary for translating executive protection techniques into personal security measures. Please don't misunderstand me: I'm not suggesting you stop going to the range or the gym. Even the best in the business can miss signs at times, and agents need to be ready to intervene with physical and, when necessary, deadly force. These skills must be maintained so you can use them decisively and instinctively when required. Let’s begin.

Threat Assessment/Risk Mitigation 

A threat assessment is the first step when an executive protection practitioner takes on a new client. It helps the agent gauge the potential threats the client may face and establish a plan to mitigate those risks. In your case, the assessment may not take as long since you should already have a good understanding of the threats facing you and your family.

However, you can spend some time on the mitigation aspect. When considering your home, how effective is your security system? Do you have exterior cameras that allow you to monitor any suspicious activity around your house while you’re away? Are there motion-activated lights that could deter someone thinking of casing your home? What about a dog that will alert you if someone is around who shouldn’t be there? Have you secured entrances with high-quality locks and reinforced mounting hardware?

What are some ways to mitigate your risk? If you need to visit a store in a high-crime area, try to schedule your visit during the day when you can be more aware of your surroundings and the likelihood of a threat is lower.

Situational Awareness

At the core of executive protection lies situational awareness. This concept is often mentioned, yet its importance cannot be overstated. Being acutely aware of our surroundings is essential, particularly in crowded public spaces or areas known for risks. Jeff Cooper is credited with being the first firearms instructor to integrate situational awareness into his training through his Color Codes of Awareness.

A significant barrier to situational awareness is people's reliance on electronic devices, especially smartphones. While these devices are crucial in our lives, we can manage our usage effectively. Focusing on our phones makes it difficult to pay attention to our surroundings.

Consider using the 5 and 25 scanning method whenever you're about to exit a vehicle or a building. First, scan the area within 5 yards of you; once that area is clear, extend your scan to 25 yards to ensure there aren’t any threats or hazards further away. It’s also important to remember that after scanning your surroundings, it’s not an excuse to pull out your phone and ignore your environment for the rest of your trip. You must remain vigilant.

Threat Recognition Through Body Language 

As we progress, it’s crucial to examine what we should be observing within crowds and among individuals. Our goal is to identify potentially hazardous behaviors by recognizing key behavioral indicators. In fact, an entire article could be devoted to the nuances of human behavior that can signal someone’s intention to engage in nefarious activities. Furthermore, understanding when someone is preparing to act inappropriately is essential for effective personal security.

Observe the body language, demeanor, and clothing choices of those around you. Notice if someone is overly focused on something that seems to go unnoticed by others. Are they dressed in a way that feels inappropriate for the season, as if they are making a significant effort to hide something that they’re trying to conceal.

Cover and Evacuation

If you find yourself in a situation where you must leave quickly, it’s crucial to do so as discreetly as possible. Drawing attention to yourself while evacuating can put you and your family in even greater danger, as it will draw the focus to you. Your primary responsibility is to ensure their safety, and then consider your own. Once you are safe, it’s vital to report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities.

In my law enforcement career, I experienced situations where confrontations arose with individuals I had previously arrested. One distressing encounter happened during a grocery store visit, and it made me realize the importance of having a plan in place for my family. To avoid similar situations in the future, we established a clear signal.

From that moment forward, if I spotted someone who posed a threat, and I needed my family to leave immediately. I informed my wife that if I ever called her "Lauren" and mentioned I just received a message indicating we had to go, it was imperative that we drop everything and exit calmly. The significance of using the name "Lauren"—even though it’s not hers—was that it prevented any instinctual questions like “Why?” and allowed us to leave promptly and safely, knowing I would explain when I had the opportunity.

Conclusion

This article provides a glimpse into the various aspects of executive protection that can also apply to personal safety for individuals. Other topics you could research include counter-surveillance, evasive driving, and medical training. Medical training should not only focus on traumatic injuries but also cover the use of AEDs and CPR. If you have the chance to take a class in executive protection, I highly recommend participating, regardless of whether you plan to pursue a career in the industry.

Interested in taking a firearms class near you? Trainers, register as a shooting instructor today.

Threat Recognition Through Body Language

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 15:29:03 -0500

In my previous article, "Maximize Your Personal Safety with Proven Executive Protection Strategies," I mentioned "Threat Recognition Through Body Language." I also mentioned that an entire article could be written on that aspect alone; it would have been more accurate to say that a whole book could be written.

I've put together some basic introductory skills that can help you take control of your environment. Let's explore these techniques that will sharpen your observational skills and help you identify potentially dangerous human behavior more effectively. In this article, I'm going to focus on scanning crowds and/or individuals from afar so we can predict a dangerous encounter, to evacuate you and/or your family before a situation fully develops into a critical incident.

Crowd Scanning

These days, we spend a lot of time around crowds of people, whether at a store, a concert, or another venue. If you're in a location with a crowd of people, it can be difficult to pick up on specific threats. Begin by scanning the crowd from left to right. Move your gaze gradually across the area, stopping every few degrees to take in different groups and individuals. This method allows you to gather a broader context of the environment.

Individual Focus

After scanning the crowd, concentrate on specific individuals within the crowd. Shift your attention to their behavior and actions to gain deeper insights into unusual patterns or interactions. Pay particular attention to anyone who is not reacting as the rest of the crowd is. A specific example of this are photos taken immediately before the assassination attempt of President Ronald Regan. While most of the crowd was smiling and taking in the moment of being in the presence of the President of the United States, John Hinkley had an almost expressionless look on his face. He was laser-focused on bringing the plan he had in his head to fruition.

Instincts and Relaxation

It's essential to stay relaxed while observing. Trust your instincts about the situation; often, your intuition can pick up on subtle cues that your conscious mind might overlook. "The Gift of Fear" by Gavin de Becker is an excellent resource for paying attention to your inner voice. Even though a whole section is dedicated to how bad firearms are, the sound information in the book far outweighs the diatribe.

Utilizing Peripheral Vision

Avoid becoming overly focused on just one element or individual. Allow your peripheral vision to remain active, enabling you to notice additional details and movements that might otherwise go unnoticed.

What Are We Looking For? 

When observing or having contact with unknown people, we look at the key indicators. For our purposes, pay particular attention to the hands and faces of those you observe. These areas are often the most expressive and can reveal much about a person's emotional state, intentions, or reactions to their surroundings. Facial expressions are key. It's often said the eyes are the windows into a person's soul; however, facial expressions frequently show involuntary reactions, even more so than the eyes.

In my early years of law enforcement, an experienced officer told me to always keep my eyes on the hands of people I encountered. Not only could the hands be used as personal weapons but also carry more serious deadly weapons, and the hands had to facilitate an assault. It made a lot of sense, and I always kept this in mind when dealing with unknown contacts. The hands were consistently observed, even if they were in my peripheral vision.

Now that we've introduced you to the art of observation and covered the key indicators of the face and hands, let's dive into our next mission: identifying any inconsistencies or disruptions in the flow of events around us. In my career, I have dealt with several emotionally charged people. Sometimes, they make it very clear they're having an issue, whether a mental health episode, a domestic dispute, or substance abuse are causing it. In most cases I worked, I could predict that I would have to go hands-on with a suspect. These indicators are apparent: clenched and bared teeth, tightening fists, being extremely loud verbally, etc.

If you encounter a person like this, you'll know it well in advance. Keep in mind that you're acting as the protective agent for your family and yourself. The best thing you can do is to avoid this situation. Even if a situation like this is blocking the only exit to the store you're in, turn around, spend a little bit more time inside, and wait for the scene to clear before exiting. Make sure your family stays close to you in case things escalate and get really crazy; then, you can evacuate together instead of having to locate a family member while trying to negotiate a volatile situation.

What about those situations when you're dealing with a criminal who isn't emotionally charged, has been in his game for a few years, and is more secretive about their intentions? This kind of person can sometimes be dissuaded by presence alone. However, you may have to engage with this kind of person. I've experienced most of these cases during vacations in larger cities like New Orleans. My then-wife and I were looking at a street map on a sidewalk.  A man passed us, and I watched him in the reflection of the map's plexiglass covering. After he made it a few steps past us, he turned around and returned toward us. I turned around, stepped between him and my wife, created distance, and asked if there was anything I could do to help him. He then mumbled some excuse and turned back around and went in the other direction. I’m lucky this worked I suppose, but I knew if it didn’t I had already made my plan to respond to a physical attack, or even a knife or a gun.

Suppose you want a PHD in dealing with unknown contacts. In that case, I highly recommend taking the Shiworks Extreme Close Quarters Combat class. The Friday evening before the weekend kicks off is Craig Douglas' Managing Unknown Contacts class, and it's worth its weight in gold. To this date, the three-day class is one of the most beneficial training experiences I've ever had. I've used the techniques taught to me by Craig on several occasions, and I can attest to their real-world effectiveness.

By paying attention to these engaging verbal and nonverbal elements, we can deepen our understanding of the dynamics at play in any situation. Our observant and analytical nature fosters a safer environment for ourselves and others. It enhances our ability to navigate complex social interactions with confidence.

Making Yourself a More Difficult Target

One of the most advantageous practices you can adopt regarding body language and enhancing personal safety is to pay close attention to how you carry yourself. To begin with, maintaining good posture is essential; stand straight with your shoulders back and your spine aligned, as this conveys confidence and makes you appear more assertive.

As you walk, do so purposefully and confidently; take measured strides rather than shuffling along. This purposeful movement can significantly impact how others perceive you. Furthermore, keep your head held high and your gaze slightly ahead, which helps you stay aware of your surroundings and projects self-assurance.

Staying alert is critical—be mindful of the people and environment around you. Demonstrating that you are observant and engaged sends a clear message to potential threats: you are not an easy target. This awareness can also help you react appropriately to any unforeseen situations.

It's essential to recognize that, much like predators in the animal kingdom, criminals often select targets that exhibit signs of vulnerability or distraction. By presenting yourself as confident and aware, you significantly reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim, as you give off the impression that you are prepared to handle any challenges that may arise.

In Closing

By mastering these observation skills and understanding the subtleties of body language, you're positioning yourself to recognize danger before it becomes imminent. Remember, safety is not just about reacting to threats but proactively creating a secure environment for yourself and those around you.

As you practice these techniques, remain patient and allow your skills to develop over time. Each encounter offers a learning opportunity, enhancing your instincts and observational abilities. Stay vigilant, trust your intuition, and continuously strive for awareness in your surroundings. With these tools at your disposal, you will navigate environments with greater confidence and poise, ultimately maximizing your personal safety.

Interested in taking a firearms class near you? Trainers, register as a shooting instructor today.