Firearms for self defense have skyrocketed in recent years.  Many more people are interested in conceal carry than ever before.  Gun Control is one of the most talked about issues in the news as well. But the question that I pose, are we better trained at using firearms than before.

The number of guns manufactured in the U.S. have soared in recent years.  According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, Guns manufactured in the U.S. rose from 5.5 million in 2010 to nearly 11 million in 2013.  That's close to double in 3 years!  Furthermore, the Center for Crime Prevention estimates that over 16 million adults have some sort of carry permit in the U.S.  The interesting data estimates that only 3 million of the 16 million carry everyday.  Why are these new permit holders not carrying their firearms? Are these new gun owners getting the training that is necessary for a possible self defense conflict?

All over the U.S., we see the opportunity of get these permits, but what is being taught?  Most of these classes teach legalities but no actual firearms training.  You are expected to know how to handle a firearm safely and complete a simple live fire exercise at the end of the class to show proficiency of basic marksmanship.  Unfortunately, these classes do little to teach any amount of training for a self defense situation.  

The nature of self defense training demands a complexity of skills that must constantly be trained.  Adding a firearm only increases the complexity and severity.  Buying a gun and getting a carry permit does nothing to aid in your ability to defend yourself.  This is one of the biggest myths surrounding firearms today.

Deep down, I believe that most people understand this point.  If not, a larger amount of permit holders would carry on a daily basis.  You see, many do not feel comfortable carrying a firearm because they lack basic skills.  And of those who do carry, I believe many of them lack the understanding of the complexity and severity that comes with carrying a firearm.

What types of firearm training is available to the general public?  If you search for firearms training, you will find gun ranges that offer basic gun safety and carry permit classes.  This is the majority of classes that someone could take to enhance their skills. These classes are a couple of hours and will run you hundreds of dollars. The most advanced classes, typically being how to draw your firearm and understand muzzle awareness.  However, I urge you to remember that basic gun safety and handling classes only touch the surface when it comes to the complexity of using a firearm in self defense.

The next level of firearms training are weekend courses. These courses are typically geared toward the tactical community.  The course usually covers a wide range of information and are pretty good for the average citizen. However, These course costs on average about $500 and doesn't cover the costs of ammo.  Ammo for a weekend course is a few hundred dollars.    This is the biggest reason most average citizens do not attend these courses.  Unfortunately,  the price point is just too high. 

What's the average citizen looking to protect him/herself and family supposed to do? 

At Lone Star, we offer classes for the average citizen looking to become more prepared.

Check out our ongoing self defense classes and our weekend courses specializing in offensive gun and knife.

Shawn Vicknair

Owner of Lone Star Karate & Self Defense