Darn Tough: Why are you still wearing cotton?

Cotton kills - we all know this. It gets wet, stays wet, and doesn't dry out. In the warm months, our feet sweat and when they are kept in wet socks they are more susceptible to blisters and sores. Wet socks can also prolong conditions of athlete's foot, trench foot, and even just plain ol' stinky foot. In cold, wet conditions, wet socks can lead to uncomfortable conditions at best, and at worst it can help to cause hypothermia or frostbite. Yet year after year, we buy cotton socks. Why? Because they are cheap. And when they wear out (in the heels, no doubt) then we go out and buy some more.

Are cotton socks bad socks? Not necessarily - as mentioned above, they are inexpensive, sold in bulk, and are fine when they can be kept dry and warm. But with prolonged activity, or sometimes any activity in the warm months or wet months, it can be very tough to keep your feet dry. With activities that include hiking, hunting, training, mountain biking, and athletics, I have struggled for years to find the perfect sock. I have always known that wool socks were better than cotton socks in the wet and cold, as they help to wick moisture away from the foot, can be warm even when wet, and are inherently warmer. In fact, it is that same wicking ability that makes wool socks - yes, wool socks - a great choice for warmer weather, as well. But wool socks are often itchy, or expensive, or too thick, and several of the brands I have tried just aren't that durable and wear out too quickly.

Enter 'Darn Tough Vermont' - a name that just sounds awesome. I discovered Darn Tough Vermont socks while shopping at my local outdoor outfitter, Manzanita Outdoor. I will admit that it took me getting several recommendations from several of the staff there to purchase an $18.00 pair of socks, but that $18.00 would change my life (or more precisely, the life of my feet) forever. Not only were they comfortable, but they didn't itch and they really did wick the moisture away in the heat and keep my feet warm in the cold. Lucky for me, the local weather was acting crazy, and over the course of just one week I was able to test my new socks out in warm, 80 degree weather AND sub-freezing temps in 4+ feet of snow. True to their word, Darn Tough Vermont socks are darn tough, and held up to their end of the bargain. So well, in fact, that I went back and purchased several more pairs, including some tall boot length pairs for use while training.

But I've been holding back on one of the best parts: they are guaranteed for life, unconditionally. If you can put a hole in them, take them back to where you bought them and receive a new pair. No questions asked whatsoever. Turn in old socks, receive new socks, for as long as you both shall live. Any company that will stand behind their product like that has my vote.

And if you're a girly girl (or a fashionable guy), don't dismay - they have all kinds of different colors, designs, ankle cuts, sport cuts, various lengths, kids socks, and even military/tactical grade socks. Chances are they have a sock that works for you. Visit their website today to learn more about these fantastic pieces of equipment that should be on everyone's feet.

Most people don't hesitate much to spend good money for a new watch or a fashionable pair of jeans, or throwing down a chunk of change for a new bracelet or a nice, warm coat. Your feet are one of the most important, but often underappreciated, parts of your body. They get you where you need to go, so treat them right by dressing them in a sock that works with them, and not against them.

Stay Aware, Stay Safe, Train Hard.

-Glen Stilson

Buy Local: Guns and Gear from Arizona

In the world of guns and gear, you can't always have things made in America. Even tougher can be finding gear that is made locally, but here at Independence Training, we do everything we can to support our local manufacturers. Here's a few of the things that I use and trust that are made right here in our beautiful state of Arizona.

Clockwise from Top left:

Tyr Tactical Basic Plate Carrier (with AZ flag patch)

Ruger SR9 in Galco Triton holster

VLTOR EMOD AR15 stock

Screenprint shirt and embroidered hat by AZ Cap Company

Kydex mag holder by local shooting club member

Wilderness Tactical Instructor Belt

Ruger SR9 in TCB Firearms kydex holster

Cerakoting on both SR9 handguns by STG Firearms/X-Werks

Ruger Firearms (http://www.ruger.com/index.html) - Prescott, AZ
If you own a semi-automatic handgun made by Ruger, chances are it has 'PRESCOTT, AZ USA' stamped on the slide or frame somewhere, such as with the SR9 and SR40, the famous P-series, the LCP, the new SR1911 and the new SR22. I have owned and carried the same SR9 since it was first released, and it has yet to let me down.

TCB Firearms and Holsters (http://www.tcbfirearms.com/) - San Tan Valley, AZ
Custom kydex holsters, magazine holders, and knife sheaths at the price of production holsters. 100% retention and quality that beats more expensive holsters I've owned and used. You can get different colored and even camouflaged kydex, and each piece is made to order. Call Jason today to get a price quote.

Wilderness Tactical Products (http://www.thewilderness.com/) - Phoenix, AZ
Makers of the best and more reliable belt that I've ever owned. In fact, I've had the same Wilderness Instructor Belt for almost 8 years, and it's still just as good as ever. They also make slings, packs, magazine holders, and several other quality pieces of gear.

Tyr Tactical (http://www.tyrtactical.com/) - Peoria, AZ
If you're looking for a plate carrier or a pack that won't let you down, look no further than Tyr. It's top-notch gear for when you need and want the best there is.

VLTOR Products (http://www.vltor.com/) - Tucson, AZ
High quality AR and M14 platform parts and accessories. I prefer their BCM Gunfighter charging handles for my AR-15s, and I love their EMOD adjustable stock - perfect cheek weld, ample storage for batteries and small parts, and a solid butt that will not break or fail, even when things get physical.

Galco (http://www.usgalco.com/) - Phoenix, AZ
If you want a leather holster, Galco is the place to get it. But they also make the best kydex in waistband holster I have ever used - the Triton. They are also a huge supporter of our Troops with their 'Holsters to Heroes' program.

GG&G (http://www.gggaz.com/) - Tucson, AZ
Home of gun accessories galore - if you need it for your shotgun, rifle, or carbine, GG&G has it. I am a big fan of their MAD rear back-up iron sight for the AR-15, and have been using one for over 6 years. It's a rock solid piece of equipment. Their shotgun sling mounts are also hard to beat.

Coyote Tactical (http://www.coyotetactical.blogspot.com/) - Phoenix, AZ
David will make you just about any piece of gear you need, be it a pouch, belt, pack, chest rig, or plate carrier. Need something non-tactical but durable? Yeah, he'll make that, too, and his work is affordable and top-quality.

Cavalry Manufacturing (http://www.cavalrymanufacturing.com/) - Mesa, AZ
Home of unique AR-15 accessories and some of the best medical gear on the market, including fully stocked pre-made medical kits that aren't full of useless band-aids.

Dillon Precision (http://www.dillonprecision.com/) - Scottsdale, AZ
You live in Arizona and you don't know what Dillon Precision is? They make the best ammunition reloading presses on the market, hands down, as well as several great firearms accessories. And of course their sister company is Dillon Aero, who makes the M134 minigun for the military - it's pure beauty at 3000 rounds per minute.

McMillan (http://www.mcmfamily.com/) - Phoenix, AZ
While I can only attest to the quality of their stocks, which are durable and functional as well as fashionable, McMillan also makes their own rifles, including the TAC-50, which is reportedly one of the most accurate .50 BMG rifles on the market.

Arizona Cap Company (http://www.arizonacap.com/) - Prescott, AZ
While they're not a gear company per se, they certainly can get you whatever you need for apparel, and that includes getting it embroidered or screenprinted. They do all of the shirts, hats, coats, business cards, and marketing material for Independence Training, and their quality, price, and production time can't be beat - believe me, I've tried. AZ Cap Company also runs http://warbirdshirts.com/ and http://conservativeshirts.com/.

STG Firearms (http://www.stgfirearms.com/) - Prescott Valley, AZ
Our local provider of firearms and ammunition, they also run X-Werks, which does all of the coating and refinishing of our firearms. You'll find gun counter guys here who actually know what they are talking about, which is a rare thing, plus you'll find gear and guns here that you won't find anywhere else.


Obviously we can't highlight everything that is made in Arizona, as we certainly haven't had the chance to put everything to the test. If you know of a great piece of gear made in Arizona, or somewhere local to you, and you'd like to tell us about it, post it up in the comments section below.

Stay Aware, Stay Safe, Train Hard.

-Glen Stilson

Streamlight Flashlights - they're like a stream of light!

Last summer my family was exploring a rather large underground cave which went 3/4 of a mile into the earth. Obviously it was pitch black down there, and we were quite happy to have our various Streamlight flashlights, as they completely lit up the cave which allowed us to see the amazing rock formations as well as to see any unsure footing that lay ahead. As we encountered other groups of people exploring the cave, who mostly had small halogen flashlights and headlamps, they all wanted to see what kind of super bright and compact lights we were using that allowed us to light up an entire cave. I'm sure at least a few of them left that cave and ordered some Streamlight products! At one point we found ourselves in a huge cavernous room, with ceilings almost 50 feet tall and an area over 600 feet long and nearly 60 feet wide. We had turned the lights out and sat in the darkness for a moment, allowing everyone to experience the full effects of being truly blind. As I switched on my Streamlight Super Tac to continue the hike, my son turns to me and says, "Wow! That's like a stream of light!" You got it, buddy.

In my years in the outdoors and training environments, I have spent a lot of time in the darkness. It's no fun when you can't see, can't identify things properly, or end up with dead batteries. So to combat those three issues, I have tried just about every light available. You name the brand, I've tried it. Expensive, cheap, super cheap, big, small, everything. Obviously some are better than others, and cost doesn't always equal the best quality. But there is one brand of lights that I have used and still continue to use that stands above the rest in my opinion, and those are Streamlights.

With the majority of their lights being LED, the days of dim light, busted bulbs, and dead batteries are long gone. My personal carry light, weapon lights, emergency lights, even my camping lights are nearly all Streamlights. Why? Because they are durable, reliable, and most of all, they are cost-effective (i.e. affordable). While they have many, many models to fit just about any need (just check out their website) here is a breakdown of the models that I use and how they fit my lifestyle. All prices which are listed after the description are prices taken from LA Police Gear, which is a great site with excellent selection and top-notch service.

My Personal Carry Lights

TOP: My SL-20L, which is a replacement for my old Maglite models. It's a big light, but not heavy, though it would serve well if needed to fight back against things that go bump in the night. LED output reaches 350 lumens with a 2 hour runtime, and the beam can go out to over 400 yards! But the best part about this light is that it's rechargeable, and won't build battery memory or die when you need it most because you just leave it on the charger whenever you're not using it and it trickle charges to ensure you always have a light that is 100%. Conveniently it also comes with 2 chargers and both AC and DC adapters. This is a fantastic light for emergencies or as a vehicle light. This big boy resides in my office. ($110.00)
BOTTOM LEFT: My wife's ProTac 1L, painted to make it easier to find if dropped outside. Uses 1 CR123 Lithium battery to shine 110 lumens for 2 hours in either High or Strobe mode, and 12 lumens for 14 hours in Low mode. Bezeled edge, impact resistant glass, and aluminum body make it handy to smash against something if the need arises. ($47.00)
BOTTOM CENTER: My bedside light, a ProTac 2L, the big brother of the 1L. Same design as the 1L, but 180 lumens in high mode and uses 2 CR123 lithium batteries. I find it easier to use than the 1L because of it's longer length - better for smashing stuff, you know? ($50.00)
BOTTOM RIGHT: My daily carry ProTac 1AA. I've been carrying this light for a while now, and it's hard to beat. Literally - I can't break this thing. It's been smashed, dropped, dunked, and all other manners of abused and it still works like the day it was taken out of the package. It's perfectly sized for my back pocket, and the clip is strong enough to keep it there at all times. It's only 50 lumens, but it uses a single AA battery which is easy and inexpensive to replace since it's a daily use light. And 50 lumens has been plenty of light for what I use it for, which is mostly up close. Runtime is 2 hours, and it also has the Strobe and Low functions. ($44.00)

My Wild Outdoors Lights

TOP LEFT: The Sidewinder is my survival kit light, and though this light now comes in a compact version, I prefer the larger version. With a 185 degree swivel head and ridiculously strong clip, which is sized to slip into MOLLE webbing, it's always easy to get light where I need it most. Durable and waterproof, it also boasts an unbreakable lens. It runs on just 2 AA batteries, and offers 4 different brightness modes as well as a strobe mode. But the best part? It outputs in 4 different colors, depending on the model you get. I have the Sportsman model, which gives me white, red, blue, and green. It's super easy to operate and can be adapted to mount on helmets and other equipment. ($65.00)
TOP RIGHT: My go everywhere headlamp, the Argo HP. I use this lamp mostly when I'm training at night, mountain biking at night, or hiking in the dark, since it is so extremely bright. It's not hard to see the trail with this lamp lit up at over 60 lumens, and with a 6.5 hour runtime it stays on for the whole time I'm using it. It runs on 2 CR123 lithium batteries, which is the downside, but buying the CR123s online saves you A LOT of money over buying them in the store. The Argo also has a High and Low output mode, which makes it nice for changing from up close to distance use. ($40.00 at OpticsPlanet)
BOTTOM: The Polytac is Streamlight's entry level light, but there's nothing basic about it. It has a high impact polymer body and 80 minute runtime at over 70 lumens. This light is my backup light, the one that gets tossed around camp, beat up, loaned to friends who brought lesser lights, etc. Uses 2 CR123 lithium batteries, and affixed to mine in the picture is a Surefire Combat Ring ($14.00 at OpticsPlanet, set of 3) which makes handling and using lights of this diameter much easier. A note on the Polytacs: they are not made to withstand the recoil of a shotgun, so they should not be mounted as a weapon light on a shotgun. ($30.00)

My Handgun Weapon Lights

LEFT: On my Ruger SR9 sits the TLR-1s, which is an amazing little light, especially considering the cost as compared to other weapon lights from other brands. Weapon mounted lights on handguns have their pros and cons, of course. If you plan to carry this way, you'll need to find a holster that fits a gun with a light, and often this is a custom job, as are my holsters from TCB Firearms. Having a mounted light adds a little weight and affects the balance, but that's nothing that's ever bothered me. You have the advantage of having a one-tool solution when you need your handgun for emergencies, instead of having to grab two seperate tools (handgun and light). You also now have both tools in the same hand, which is a huge plus when dealing with doors, good guys, and bad guys. A downside is that you'll now be aiming your weapon everywhere you aim your light, which may include covering things with your muzzle that you don't want to destroy. You also are limited to what angles of light you can present to expose or otherwise identify your target. Ultimately, you must decide what works best for you. Keep in mind that Streamlight weapon lights are not just designed to mount on your handgun, but also can be affixed to any long gun with a rail. Streamlights also come with several different "keys" to changeout the rail fixture on the light to be able to adapt to the multitude of different rail mounting options on handguns and long guns. Why can't they just make everything one universal size? Sheesh. Anyway, this light has 2.5 hour runtime at 160 lumens, and provides the High, Strobe, and Low output modes that Streamlight is famous for. An easy paddle-type toggle switch which is easy to activate can also provide momentary or constant-on function. As with any other piece of equipment, training is your friend when using weapon lights. ($100.00)
RIGHT: It's not easy to find a good light to fit a compact handgun like my Kel-Tec PF9, but Streamlight has both the TLR-3 and the TLR-4, with the TLR-4 being mounted to my PF9 in the above photo. The TLR-4 is different than the TLR-3 in that it has a built-in laser to assist in low-light or poor visibility shot placement. At 100 lumens and 1.5 hour runtime, it gives you plenty of time to get the job done. This little light also uses the same momentray or constant-on paddle-switch that the TLR-1s does, only it does not have the High, Strobe, and Low functions, just High. Located under the main switch is a small toggle switch, to be set when attaching the light, which gives you the option of using just the light, just the laser, or both at the same time. This light is also well-suited for larger framed handguns or long guns, and comes with the same various rail keys to attach it to different setups. I just use the "E" key which allows me to attach it to everything I have. ($140.00)


My Long Gun Weapon Lights

TOP: Mounted on my primary AR-15 is the TLR-1HP, by means of a Streamlight long gun mount ($12.00 at LA Police Gear). Combining the size of the TLR-1s with the power of the Super Tac, Streamlight really knocked it out of the park with this one. This is a no-joke 400 yard+ light, though I have found engaging normal sized targets beyond 300 yards with a 2MOA red dot a bit of a challenge. Extremely bright at 200 lumens with a 2 hour runtime and an unbreakable lens, this is the light to have for your carbine if you plan to do any shooting, whether target or defensive, in an outdoor environment. Mounting a light on a defensive long gun, as opposed to a handgun, is not just an option, it's a requirement in my opinion. You must be able to identify your target and be able to place your shots well, which you can't do in the dark with no light, and using a handheld light in conjunction with a long gun, while not impossible, is not preferable. ($115.00)
MIDDLE: The Super Tac is, simply put, one of the brightest medium-sized handheld lights available. I call it the "moonbeam" due to its extremely bright white beam - this is the light my son described as a "stream of light" in the cave story mentioned above. Easy to carry and just as durable as the rest of the Streamlight line, it provides 160 lumens for 3.5 hours. In the picture, it is also mounted in the Streamlight long gun rail mount, which can easily attach and detach certain Streamlight models through use of a rotating pressure nut ($49.00 at OpticsPlanet). In addition to mounting this to my long guns, primarily my hunting AR-15, I also use this light for camping and hiking since it has such a great beam! ($72.00)
BOTTOM: Mounted on my primary shotgun, a Remington 870, is the TL-2X. This is a light that can take the abuse of shotgun recoil and shines at 200 lumens with a 2.5 hour runtime, and also has the High, Strobe, and Low functions of other Streamlight handhelds. It's mounted in an Elzetta Shotgun Mount ($40.00 at Elzetta) which has proven tough and reliable and also acts as a magazine clamp for my extended magazine. I had to remove the clip from the light to mount it in the Elzetta setup, but that was easy. It's also important to note that when mounting shotgun lights in this manner on a pump action shotgun you will need to mount them slightly beyond the reach of your support hand thumb so you do not turn them on and off accidently while operating the pump. You do not need to worry about losing the ability to momentarily press the tailcap switch while firing unless you love lots of pain in your thumb, a lesson learned the hard way by yours truly. A shotgun light mounted in this fashion is either on or off while shooting, or momentarily on while searching or navigating. ($68.00)

Getting a good light is just half the battle, but understanding how to use it is the other half. There is more to using a light in a defensive situation than just turning it on. What's that? You don't know all of the ins and out of using a handheld light or a weapon light with your firearms? How awesome it is, then, that Independence Training has a Low-Light / No-Light training course for both handguns and carbines! Come and train with us and you'll not only get top-notch instruction on the use of lights, but you'll also get to try out several of the above model Streamlights, including all of the weapon lights.

While this review outlines the excellent Streamlights I use on an often daily basis, it is not meant to say that Streamlight is the only option. They are, of course, an excellent option and the preferred light of Independence Training thanks to their quality and cost, but more important to take from this review is the vast number of flashlights and lamps that you use in your life, and the often little consideration that they are given. How many lights to you have in your home, office, vehicle, or operational environment? Do they actually fit your needs, or were they purchased at a "bargain bin" somewhere? Are the batteries fresh, and how long will they last? Do you have extra batteries nearby? Is a light always at hand? All this and more are considerations you need to make to select one of the most important pieces of equipment you'll ever use, seeing as they alleviate the inherent weakness that all humans possess: lack of natural night vision. So short of walking around with night vision optics strapped to your head at all times, take a look at the lights in your life, consider their use and their value, and then seriously consider purchasing some Streamlights.

Stay Aware, Stay Safe, Train Hard.

-Glen Stilson

Eye and Ear Protection - the unsung heroes

Gear reviews often focus on the cool stuff; that is, we tend to see reviews about guns, ammo, and whatever new cool thing that the boys in SpecOps are using. But what about the gear that gets abused on every trip to the range, but rarely gets thought about at all? Other than your original purchase decision, how much do you really consider the functionality of your eye and ear protection?

I certainly never did - until I became a full-time instructor. Eye and ear protection has always been a part of my life, ever since I was a little kid. My dad always made me wear it growing up when we were out shooting, but I just used what he gave me. Same thing with the military and other vocations I've been in where eye and ear protection were required. Sometimes I was given comfortable equipment, sometimes not. Sometimes I could modify it to be more comfortable, and sometimes it was just destined to annoy me. But until I started wearing this gear all the time, I never realized just how comfortable it could be.

And this is where my review really starts, because there are a lot of brands of eye and ear protection out there, and they all are betting on one thing: that only a handful of people really consider the comfort and functionality of their eye and ear pro. I am one of those few, and you should be, too.

Howard Leight makes some amazing electronic ear protection - not only are they an industry leader, but they do it at a price that is affordable. Here at Independence Training we prefer their Impact Sport model, not just because it runs forever on 2 AAA batteries, or because it's highly water-resistant, or even because it has a great air flow design that keeps your ears comfortable while still maintaining full 82dB noise dampening. No, we love them because they do not interfere with a solid cheek weld while firing long guns. This is one of my major complaints with nearly every other type of ear muff on the market, whether electronic or not. And why should you choose electronic hearing protection, anyway? The primary reason would be that you won't have to yell (or be yelled at) on the range in order to communicate with your range buddies, instructors, or fellow students. Another great reason is that sounds will actually be amplified - that's right, your hearing capability will increase while wearing quality electronic ear protection. This helps to keep your situational awareness at its peak level while wearing full ear pro, and also makes conversation much easier. I've even heard of hunters wearing them to increase their ability to hear the movement of game. Add to all of this that the Impact Sport folds up nice and small in order to fit easily into your range bag, and then take a look at the average price of under $50, and you're out of reasons not to get electronic hearing protection from Howard Leight.

Now how about those eyes? I see many shooters neglect eye protection. You think eye pro sucks? No problem, just start saving up for that seeing eye dog. The reality is that your eyes are at just as much risk as your ears when you're on the range. Dirt, dust, small specks of lead or unburned powder, chunks of metal from mechanical failures, bits of wood or concrete from those cover and concealment drills . . . . the list goes on and on. While just about anything is better than nothing when it comes to eye pro, those prescription glasses or cool-guy sunglasses have their limitations and their hazards, especially if they are not offering full protection around your eye socket. Does eye pro have to be able to stop incoming rounds? No, not necessarily. But what if it could, wouldn't that be awesome? Why yes, yes it would. And that's where Revision comes in. Whether you are actually trying to stop incoming debris or not, Revision eye wear has been our solution in the search for comfortable and effective eye wear that didn't make us look like some kind of insect. Which is ironic, actually, because Revision names all of their glasses after insects - the Sawfly, Bullet Ant, Desert Locust, or our personal favorites, the Hellfly. The slim design means that I can wear the Hellfly glasses with my Impact Sports all day long without any rubbing, wearing, or discomfort. The full eye covering means that I can protect all of my eye from every angle, but with a design that doesn't make me appear to be an actual fly. And all of our instructors here prefer the photochromic lenses which adjust with the level of light. This means that we can wear these glasses whether we're teaching a carbine course in the middle of the day or a no-light shooting course in the pitch black, without having to sacrifice vision capability due to shaded lenses. And if you need a prescription lens, Revision can do that for you, as well. But one of the things that originally drew us to Revision wasn't actually their glasses, but what they do with them. Back in mid-2009, a good friend was putting together a 3-gun competition for the Troops over in Iraq, and Revision was one of the sponsors that helped us out - and help out they certainly did. Since then Revision's name has popped up in any event we have participated in that had anything to do with helping the Troops, and that kind of support doesn't go unnoticed by us. So if you haven't ever taken a look at Revision, you should - they have several different styles and lens options, and the cost of their equipment is worth every penny and then some.

Do you have to wear Howard Leight ear pro or Revision glasses to be a safe shooter? Absolutely not, but we sure do recommend them. But whatever you do, PLEASE WEAR EYE AND EAR PROTECTION AT ALL TIMES, and require that anyone with you, especially kids, do the same. Is that new rifle or handgun you bought totally awesome? You bet. But don't forget to spend some time thanking the unsung heroes of the shooting sports - your eye and ear pro!

Stay Aware, Stay Safe, Train Hard.

-Glen Stilson

FNX-9 - ambidextrous and rock-solid reliable

In March of this year I decided that I needed a new handgun for EDC (everyday carry) as well as concealed carry. Up until then I had been carrying my full size 1911 chambered in .45 ACP. As most of you know there are a myriad of handguns available on the market; however not very many of these cater to left-handed shooters as most handgun controls, such as the magazine release and safety, are designed for right-handed shooters. So off I went in search of a polymer handgun that would work well for a leftie. After some time spent searching I had narrowed my choices down to either the M&P 9 or the FNX-9, both chambered in 9mm. Each of these were excellent handguns, felt good in my hand, and came with all the features I was looking for, primarily the ambidextrous controls. I decided on the FNX-9 for a couple of reasons - first off, the location of the controls was almost identical to my 1911, and secondly FN Herstal has a rock solid reputation for reliability and durability that has been proven over the years.

Having carried a 1911 for so long I was a bit apprehensive about the grip size of the FN. Upon removing it from the box I immediately noticed how comfortable it felt in my hand. The FN comes with four different back straps so that the shooter can get the fit and feel the he wants. The grip of the FNX-9 is strongly checkered, which helps with retention during bad weather and adverse conditions (rain, mud, snow, ect.). I was also very pleased that it came with three 17 round magazines, quite a difference from my eight round 1911 magazines, and a bonus over other manufacturers who only include two magazines with their handguns.

One of the immediate limitations of the FNX-9 is that very few companies make a holster specifically for it. I did find one company, Arizona Gun Leather, who made a holster for the FNP line of handguns, and ordered one from them. While waiting for that one to arrive I still needed a holster to use. After some research I found that Springfield XD holsters work very well. The first holster I used for this handgun was a Fobus Paddle for the Springfield XD 4”. While using this holster I had absolutely no problems with retention while training. I also had no issues with the AGL holster after receiving it.  I have also used a Galco Concealable Belt Holster, made for the XD 4”, which Galco now makes specifically for the FNX-9.  A few months ago I started exclusively using a Comp-Tac Infidel IWB (in-waistband) holster, made for the XD. It works great, but I had to perform a few minor modifications to allow room for the safety selector and magazine release button.

On the range this handgun is amazing.  The sights are of the three-dot variety, one large dot on the front sight blade, and two smaller dots on the rear sight. The large front dot helps with front sight focus, because the two smaller rear dots just fade out. My FNX-9 has now had over 5,000 rounds fired through it since I bought it and the only failures it has experienced have been due to user error. The weight of the gun makes the recoil extremely manageable. I am not kind to it or gentle with it, either. After purchasing it I wanted to truly test it and put about 1000 rounds down range before it got it first cleaning. I perform very little maintenance on this handgun, and it still continues to run with no malfunctions. After a good hard range session I run a bore snake through it and throw some lubrication in it, and put it back in the holster.

The price point for the FNX-9 is about average (around $500) for a modern polymer framed handgun. In my opinion this handgun is an excellent value for those lefties looking for a user-friendly handgun or for anyone looking for a solid 9mm handgun. The only drawbacks that I have experienced with the FNX are the lack of holsters available and the price of replacement magazines. A replacement magazine for the FNX is $45. Other than these issues I would say the FNX-9 has easily held the FNH reputation. I look forward to carrying this pistol for years to come.

Real training sucks, EMBRACE the suck.

- John Pinnix

Ruger SR9 - underappreciated excellence

Shortly after its release in the fall of 2007, I picked up a Ruger SR9 9mm handgun. Ruger's first striker-fired handgun, it claimed to be one of the slimmest full-sized 9mm's on the market, and seeing as how it was made at the factory just around the corner from Independence Training, I had to try it out. At the time I was still carrying a 1911 chambered in .45ACP as my daily carry gun - a good solid handgun, to be sure, but certainly limiting in two areas: weight and magazine capacity. With a polymer frame and 17 round capacity magazine, as well as control locations based on the 1911 design, this new SR9 really intrigued me. Then I shot it.

Wow! Tame recoil, even for a 9mm, and the ergonomic design of the handgun made for an easily controllable shooting experience that made keeping rapid shots on target no problem at all for me. And what was better is that is really was slim - slimmer than my 1911, in fact - and it packed more rounds into that size. With plenty of training and field testing completed, including a nasty torture test that included sand, mud, and water, it was ready for daily carry . . . . and it's been my daily carry ever since.

As my daily carry handgun, it's also my instructor handgun, and that means it gets abused. Heavily abused. As in days of high volume shooting with little to no maintenance. Running courses in the rain, the sand, the snow, the cold. It's been drug through the dirt while doing ground maneuvers and packed in mud while shooting from alternate positions. I mean to tell you that this handgun has seen it's share of hard days. And yet it just keeps on running. It doesn't choke on any ammunition, even the cheap dirty foreign brands. It's fired over 8000 rounds, and it just keeps on doing what it was built to do - fire rounds accurately and effectively without a hiccup.

So why is the SR9 not as popular as Glocks, or XDs, or some similar pistol? I believe part of that is due to Ruger's politics in the past, when Bill Ruger was still alive. Some of the things he said and did left a bad taste in the mouths of gun owners. I believe that Ruger showing up pretty late to the 'polymer pistol party' is another factor. And yet another factor is the fact that this handgun has yet to be tested on a larger level by a big law-enforcement agency issuing them to its officers. But none of that means that this handgun should not be considered as a viable and affordable alternative to other handguns of similar design. I recently saw a brand new SR9 in a gun store for $429.00+tax - now that is one heck of a good deal on a brand new pistol. Bring up the point that the magazine release and safety are both ambidextrous, and you have an even sweeter deal.

None of this is to say that I don't have my complaints, however. I am not a big fan of lever-type safeties on striker-fired pistols, and even though the safety on the SR9 is in the same location as a 1911, it's not something I use. In fact I've modified mine so that it doesn't even move into the up or 'safe' position. Ruger is a big fan of safeties, however, as they also put a magazine safety on the SR9, meaning that without a magazine inserted, the trigger is much harder (but not impossible) to pull. This is also a part that be modified; in fact it can be fully removed, and I have done so.

Magazines are also not inexpensive, a problem which plagues many "unpopular" or non-widely circulated handguns. The cheapest I can find so far on factory 17 round magazines is $25.00, and that's when they are on sale. Normal price is generally over $30.00. To my knowledge there are no aftermarket magazines available for the SR9. Along the same lines, holsters can be difficult to find for particular styles, and some manufacturers don't have SR9 holsters available at all. Sometimes this can be solved through the modification of existing holsters, such as my Galco Triton made for a Glock 17.

But those complaints are minor when compared to complaints I've had concerning other handguns I've owned and/or carried. Overall I find the Ruger SR9 to be an exceptional piece of equipment, and I obviously would bet my life on that! Recently I decided to give my SR9 a bit of a 'makeover' and took it to my local gun store, STG Firearms, for a Cerakote refinish through their X-Works refinishing shop. I chose Flat Dark Earth for the slide and Coyote Tan for the frame, and I am very happy with the results. Turnaround time was about a week, and so far the new finish has held up very well.

If you're in the market for a new handgun, give the SR9 a good look. It's also available in a compact version, the SR9c, and in .40 S&W with the SR40. You won't break the bank, and it's quality that you can bet your life on.

Stay Aware, Stay Safe, Train Hard.

-Glen Stilson

Improvised Weapons: hit 'em with everything you've got

Have you ever watched a movie where someone is being chased and they are knocking down everything behind them, to try and slow their pursuer? Or perhaps they were grabbing everything they could and throwing or pummeling their attacker with it? If you've ever watched an action movie, then chances are you've seen that, especially if you've ever watched the Jason Bourne movie series - that guy is a master of the improvised weapon. And the best thing about improvised weapons is that they can be used anywhere, especially places where conventional defensive weapons like a firearm or knife may be prohibited: at the office, a restaurant, or the airport. You will never be unarmed.

The use of improvised weapons is an important skill since not everyone can or will carry a handgun with them everywhere they go and at all times, and that handgun may malfunction, run out of ammunition, or you may not be able to get to it in time. In addition, not every defensive situation you encounter will warrant the use of deadly force, and improvised weapons can be used to effectively defend against, demoralize, and ultimately deter or incapacitate an attacker. Whether or not you carry a firearm with you, you should always have some "improvised weapon capable" tools on your body. Here's a few examples:

In the above picture, you'll see what I carry with me every day. Nothing too out of the ordinary here - a pocket knife, a flashlight, a ballpoint pen, and a set of keys. And each one is available in a different pocket at a different location on my body. It's not cumbersome, and it's not uncomfortable to carry. And while each item is useful for its intended purpose, as weapons they are devastating. A pocket knife is obvious - edged weapons can be used for slashing or stabbing, and I prefer a stout blade from a quality manufacturer (this one is a Kershaw Boa). The flashlight can be used both as an impact weapon to strike with and as a distraction device to temporarily blind and/or disorient an attacker, giving you precious time to continue to strike or to get away. Keys are often recognized as improvised weapons, but more as puncture and slashing weapons than what I believe their greatest use is: as a flail. Whether your attacker is in front of you or behind you, especially if they have you in a hold or grab, you can use your keys as a flail to strike joints and soft, exposed skin. On my key chain I added a yawara, which can be used to jab and strike your opponent, and as a control device. It also makes a great handle for my "key flail," and really helps me to not lose my keys.

And what about that pen? The pen is one of the greatest improvised weapons because they are so easily available and no one thinks twice about someone carrying a pen - you can even carry multiple pens on your body in various locations without raising any eyebrows. At your office, your desk, in your junk drawer, on the airline, at the bank - no matter where you go it seems there is a pen. Unless you need to write something down, and then you can never find one, which is another great reason to carry a pen! Used as a striking and as a pointed weapon, you can stab, stab, stab to your heart's content. Eyes, joints, the neck, under the ribs . . . . just about anything soft can be penetrated by an average Bic pen. And there are many manufacturers who now make "tactical" pens which are made of various hardened materials and are specifically designed as weapons while still retaining the ability to be used as a normal pen and taken where other weapons may be prohibited.

While an improvised weapon isn't something you necessarily buy specifically for that use, you can place certain items around your home, office, or social setting in such a way that they wouldn't be readily identifiable by most people, yet they would still be close at hand. I took 20 seconds and grabbed every improvised weapon I could think of in that time frame around my bedroom. Here's what I came up with:

In just a short amount of time, I was able to come up with 6 items that would all be quality defensive weapons. A big book is a great tool - in addition to filling my head with good information, I can use it to beat the head of someone else. It can also be used as a shield of sorts against impact and edged weapons. A water bottle is not only heavy and makes a solid impact weapon, it can also be thrown easily, depending on your skill level, and when opened and splashed in the face of an attacker, it can give you that brief half-second of breathing room to continue your defense using other means. A pair of scissors is just like any other edged weapon, but combined with such a great handle their use as a pentrating weapon is nearly unmatched amongst normal household items. My wife's purse works great as an impact weapon when swung, especially since she, like many other women, has many items in there. Larger purses can be used as shields, just like a book, or as an entangling tool for arms or necks. A hot cup of tea of coffee can be splashed in the face of an attacker, and then the cup can be used as an impact weapon. And what about that big green prism? That's a souvenir from a vacation that I keep on my dresser - it's great to look at and has been strategically placed to be used as a heavy and pointed impact weapon.

And here's one of my favorite improvised weapons - the gun lock:

Not only are they free with most firearm purchases, but you can pick them up at a lot of shooting ranges and police stations. They are conveniently coated with plastic on the cable, and the lock is solid steel. I can carry one in my pants pocket without notice, then slip my hand in and come out with a solid piece of steel on a chain. They will pass through security checkpoints and are legal to carry everywhere - after all, it's just a lock. But as Steve Dorothy (one of Independence Training's instructors) says: "A few raps on the noggin with one of these and it's coloring books for Christmas."

Now there is more to using improvised weapons than just identifying them. You need to understand the limitations of such items - how long until that pen breaks, for example? How many times can you hit someone with a paint can until the lid pops off and the sides dent in? How many hits will a broom handle give you? And as with any defensive tool, it's best to seek out instruction in their use (Such as our Women's Self-Defense course). And once you've received that instruction, you need to practice, practice, practice so that if you need those skills to save your life or the life of a loved one, you'll be able to react swiftly and without hesitation. And you'll need to identify the improvised weapons available to you everywhere you go. How strong is your hairbrush, and does it have a pointed end? Can you use a salt shaker as a weapon in a restaurant? How about a ketchup bottle? How about a fire extinguisher? Are those stools at the bar bolted to the floor? Is that mail cart at work sturdy enough to throw, or to push someone where you want them to go? Are those tables thick enough to provide temporary cover against bullets? How about that bookshelf? You can ask yourself these and many other questions every time you step into a new place.

I like to play a little game - every time I go somewhere new, I take 20 seconds and identify as many improvised weapons as possible. I also check for exits and quick counts of people as well as general descriptions. The more you play this game, the better (and more creative) you'll get. Pretty soon it will be a natural thing that you do, and you'll be that much more prepared.

Do you have an idea for an improvised weapon? Have you identified something in your home or office that you think would be a great defensive tool? Share it with us in the comments section below.

Stay Aware, Stay Safe, Train Hard.

-Glen Stilson