Why You, friends and Family Should Consider a Concealed Carry Permit (CCW) By Gregg Kielma Your decision to obtain a Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) permit is one rooted in personal responsibility, safety, and preparedness. While firearms ownership itself requires discipline and respect for the law, carrying concealed adds another layer of accountability that benefits both the individual and the community. Personal Protection A CCW empowers law-abiding citizens to defend themselves and their loved ones in situations where law enforcement may not be immediately available. Emergencies unfold in seconds, and having the ability to respond can mean the difference between vulnerability and safety. Legal Responsibility Holding a CCW demonstrates a commitment to following the law. Permit holders undergo background checks, training, and often continuing education, ensuring they understand both the legal and ethical responsibilities of carrying a firearm. Community Safety Responsible concealed carriers act as deterrents to crime. Criminals are less likely to target individuals or communities where citizens may be armed and prepared. This doesn’t mean vigilante justice—it means fostering a safer environment through lawful readiness. Confidence Through Training Most CCW programs require instruction in firearms safety, marksmanship, and situational awareness. This training builds confidence, reduces accidents, and ensures that carriers are prepared to act responsibly under stress. Here Is My Final Parting Thought as A CCW Instructor: A CCW is not just about carrying a firearm—it’s about embracing responsibility, protecting oneself and others, and contributing to a safer society. For those who value preparedness and accountability, obtaining a CCW is a meaningful step toward ensuring peace of mind in an unpredictable world. Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms

Tactical K Training and Firearms Once Fired Brass Before Processing New Factory AMMO vs. Reloaded AMMO By Gregg Kielma I often get asked about reloading ammo with new or once-fired brass. Personally, I only use new or once-fired brass—never more than that—and I prefer Hodgdon powder and CCI primers. Some reloaders reuse brass several times, but I don't. Factory ammo is convenient and reliable; reloading saves money and allows customization. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize consistency and convenience or cost savings and flexibility. I reload all my own brass for range and self-defense use. Kielma says, LET’S TAKE A LOOK, my thoughts. New vs. Reloaded Ammunition: A Practical Comparison What Is New Ammo? New ammunition, often called factory ammo, is produced by manufacturers using brand-new components—fresh brass casings, primers, powder, and bullets. It is packaged, quality-tested, and ready to use straight out of the box. Key advantages: • Reliability: Factory ammo is manufactured under strict quality control, reducing the risk of misfires or inconsistencies. • Convenience: No time investment—simply purchase, load, and shoot. • Consistency: Ideal for defensive use, law enforcement, and competitive shooting where reliability is paramount. Drawbacks: • Cost: Factory ammo is generally more expensive, especially for high-volume shooters. • Availability: During shortages or price spikes, certain calibers may be difficult to find. What Is Reloaded Ammo? Reloaded ammunition—also called handloaded ammo—is made by reusing spent brass casings and replacing primers, powder, and bullets. Shooters either reload themselves or purchase reloads from trusted suppliers. Key advantages: • Cost Savings: Reloading can cut costs significantly, especially for rare calibers or high-volume shooting. • Customization: Reloaders can fine-tune loads for accuracy, recoil management, or specific firearms. • Independence: Less reliance on factory supply chains, which is valuable during ammo shortages. Drawbacks: • Time & Equipment: Reloading requires specialized tools, knowledge, and patience. • Safety Risks: Poorly reloaded rounds can cause malfunctions or damage firearms if not done correctly. • Inconsistency: Quality depends on the skill and attention of the reloader. Side-by-Side Comparison Factor New Ammo (Factory) My Reloaded Ammo Cost Higher per round Lower long-term, especially for rare calibers Reliability Very high Depends on reloader’s skill Convenience Ready to use Requires time, tools, and knowledge Off the shelf pretty box's Reloaded- Customization Limited Highly customizable (powder charge, bullet type, etc.) Best For Defense, duty, competition Practice, hunting, precision shooting, cost saving. Please note I make extremely reliable self-defense rounds, just like what comes off the shelf. Time and quality control are a must and my standard. Risks and Considerations • For defensive use: Some experts recommend sticking with factory ammo due to its proven reliability and legal defensibility. • For training and hunting: Reloads can be an excellent choice, offering affordability and tailored performance. • For beginners: Reloading requires careful study of manuals, adherence to safety practices, and investment in equipment. Kielma’s Conclusion New ammo is best when reliability and convenience matter most, while reloaded ammo shines for cost savings, customization, and independence. Many shooters use a mix—factory rounds for defense and reloaded ammo for practice or hunting. As a firearms instructor, and professional reloader, this comparison is meant be a teaching point for my students, friends and family: I empathize safety and reliability with factory ammo while introducing the benefits of reloaded ammo for those interested in deeper technical knowledge.

Gregg Kielma: A Dedicated Leader in Firearms Training and Personal Protection By Steve Smith 12/20/25 Gregg Kielma has built a respected reputation in the world of firearms education, personal protection, and responsible gun ownership. As the owner of Tactical K Training and Firearms, Kielma brings more than three decades of experience in concealed carry, shooting sports, and self-defense instruction to students across the United States. Kielma is a USCCA certified instructor with credentials spanning decades in concealed carry and home defense, countering the mass shooter threat, children’s firearms safety, women’s firearm self-defense, range safety operations, real estate agent safety, first aid fundamentals instructor to include CPR/Defibrillator, range safety officer/trainer, electronic control device instructor, prepping for survival, security consultant home and business, FAA drone pilot and is an outdoor range operator. His broad certification portfolio reflects a commitment to empowering individuals and families with practical, lifesaving skills. Beyond instruction, Kielma is also an FFL dealer, a professional engineer /project manager, and an experienced gunsmith, adding technical depth to his training programs. His background includes expert marksmanship and drone piloting, further demonstrating the diverse skill set he brings to the firearms community. Students and clients consistently note his professionalism, patience, and ability to translate complex safety principles into clear, actionable guidance. Whether working with first time gun owners or seasoned shooters, Gregg Kielma’s mission remains the same: to promote safe, confident, and responsible firearm handling.

Purchasing a Firearm: A Responsible Buyer’s Guide By Gregg Kielma FFL- Firearms Instructor- Gunsmith- First Aid Fundamentals Instructor Buying a firearm is a significant decision—one that carries legal, ethical, and safety responsibilities. Whether someone is purchasing their first firearm or adding to an existing collection, approaching the process with preparation and awareness ensures a safer and more confident experience. Understand Your Purpose Before stepping into a gun shop, it helps to be clear about why you want a firearm. Common reasons include: • Home or personal protection • Hunting or sport shooting • Collecting historical or specialty firearms Your purpose will influence the type, size, caliber, and features that make sense for you. Know the Law Firearm laws vary by state and sometimes even by county or municipality. Buyers should familiarize themselves with: • Eligibility requirements • Background check procedures • Waiting periods (if applicable) • Storage and transportation laws • Any required permits or training Understanding the legal landscape ensures compliance and prevents accidental violations. Choose a Reputable Dealer Purchasing from a licensed firearms dealer provides several advantages: • Assurance that the firearm is legally transferred • Access to knowledgeable staff • Proper documentation and background checks • Opportunities to handle different models before buying A good dealer will answer questions without pressure and help match the buyer with the right firearm. Handle and Evaluate Firearms When examining a firearm in person, pay attention to: • Ergonomics and comfort • Weight and balance • Sight picture • Trigger feel • Overall build quality A firearm should feel natural and controllable. If it doesn’t, it’s not the right fit. Prioritize Training and Safety Owning a firearm is only part of the equation. Responsible ownership includes: • Taking certified safety courses • Practicing regularly at a range • Learning safe storage methods • Understanding how to maintain the firearm Training builds confidence and reduces the risk of accidents. Secure Storage Safe storage protects both the owner and others in the household. Options include: • Lockable gun safes • Quick access lockboxes • Cable or trigger locks The goal is to prevent unauthorized access while still allowing the owner to access the firearm responsibly. Gregg Kielma FFL- Firearms Instructor- Gunsmith- First Aid Fundamentals Instructor

ATF Building Washington DC The ATF: A Quiet Force Protecting Communities, My Thoughts By Gregg Kielma When most people think about public safety, they picture local police departments or federal agencies with high-profile missions. Yet one agency works steadily behind the scenes, tackling some of the most complex threats to American communities: the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Though often operating without fanfare, the ATF plays a vital role in safeguarding the public, supporting law enforcement partners, and ensuring that legal industries operate responsibly. A Mission Rooted in Public Safety The ATF’s core mission is straightforward but essential: protect the public from violent crime. Its responsibilities span several areas that directly impact everyday life: • Combating firearms trafficking and violent crime • Investigating arson and explosives incidents • Regulating the firearms and explosives industries • Ensuring compliance in alcohol and tobacco markets These are not abstract tasks. They’re the kinds of challenges that, if left unchecked, can destabilize communities and endanger lives. The ATF’s work helps prevent that. Expertise That Makes a Difference One of the ATF’s greatest strengths is its deep technical expertise. ATF agents and specialists are among the nation’s foremost experts in: • Firearms tracing and ballistics • Explosives analysis • Fire scene reconstruction • Criminal networks and trafficking patterns Their National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) is a prime example. It allows law enforcement agencies across the country to link shell casings from different crime scenes, helping investigators identify patterns and stop violent offenders more quickly. Partnerships That Strengthen Communities The ATF doesn’t work alone. It collaborates with thousands of local police departments, federal agencies, and international partners. These relationships amplify the impact of every investigation. Whether it’s helping a small-town police department solve an arson case or supporting a major city’s efforts to dismantle a firearms trafficking ring, the ATF brings resources and expertise that many agencies simply don’t have on their own. Supporting Lawful Industry Beyond enforcement, the ATF plays a crucial regulatory role. It works closely with firearms dealers, explosives companies, and alcohol and tobacco businesses to ensure compliance with federal law. Most of these businesses want to operate responsibly, and the ATF provides guidance, inspections, and education to help them do exactly that. This partnership-based approach strengthens legitimate commerce while preventing dangerous materials from falling into the wrong hands. A Commitment to Professionalism ATF personnel—agents, chemists, auditors, investigators, and support staff—are known for their professionalism and dedication. Their work often requires patience, precision, and a willingness to take on difficult, sometimes dangerous assignments. Yet they continue to serve with integrity, motivated by a simple goal: make communities safer. A Vital, Often Unsung Agency The ATF may not always be in the spotlight, but its contributions are felt nationwide. From solving violent crimes to preventing illegal trafficking, from supporting local law enforcement to ensuring responsible industry practices, the ATF is a critical part of America’s public safety infrastructure. In a world where threats evolve quickly, the ATF’s expertise, adaptability, and commitment to service make it an indispensable force for good.

Jefferson Parish Man Sentenced for Machine Gun Possession Friday, December 19, 2025 U.S. Attorney's Office, Eastern District of Louisiana NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that, JAHBRELL PRICE (“PRICE”), age 25, of Marrero, Louisiana was sentenced on December 4, 2025 by U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown, after previously pleading guilty to the two-count indictment pending against him. Count 1 charged PRICE with possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(3). Count 2 charged PRICE with possession of a machine gun, in violation of Title 18 United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2). PRICE was sentenced to a total term of 33 months’ imprisonment, consisting of 12 months as to Count One and 33 months as to Count Two, with the terms to be served concurrently. PRICE was further sentenced to three (3) years of supervised release, consisting of one (1) year as to Count One and three (3) years as to Count Two, to be served concurrently as well as a $125 mandatory special assessment fee. According to documents, on January 7, 2024, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives located PRICE at a motel at 6751 Westbank Expressway, in Marrero, where he was arrested on an outstanding Orleans Parish warrant. Detectives secured a search warrant for PRICE’s hotel room and located twenty (20) bottles of promethazine (9,460 ml), $1,375.00 in United States currency, and a Glock model 45 nine-millimeter handgun with an external and visible machine gun conversion device attached to the rear of the slide. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit. Contact Brittany Maique Executive Assistant U.S. Attorney's Office Eastern District of Louisiana Updated December 19, 2025

PENSACOLA MAN SENTENCED TO FOUR YEARS IN FEDERAL PRISON FOR UNREGISTERED MACHINEGUN CONVERSION DEVICE Wednesday, December 17, 2025 U.S. Attorney's Office, Northern District of Florida PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Prashant M. Jenkins Jr., 24, of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced to four years in federal prison after having previously pled guilty to possession of an unregistered machinegun conversion device. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our outstanding state and federal law enforcement partners are on the front lines keeping our communities safe from violent criminals, like this defendant, and my office stands ready to back up their hard work with successful prosecutions to send those offenders to federal prison.” Court documents reflect that on October 30, 2024, law enforcement officers found and seized from Jenkins’ residence an AR-style machinegun conversion device, a Glock pistol with a loaded magazine, a loaded AR-15 magazine, approximately 500 grams of marijuana, and other suspected drug trafficking paraphernalia. The conversion device, which itself is considered a machinegun under federal law, was not marked with a serial number and was not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record as required. The sentence was the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes. This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html. Contact United States Attorney’s Office Northern District of Florida USAFLN.Press.Office@usdoj.gov X: @USAO_NDFL Updated December 17, 2025

Gregg Kielma What Makes a Good Firearms Instructor: Skill, Safety, and the Art of Teaching By Gregg Kielma USCCA 5 Star Instructor Clients often inquire about my qualifications, experience with firearms, distinguishing factors as an instructor, and the reasons they should place their trust in my instruction. Below, I offer my perspective on these points for your consideration. Continues Kielma, “as a firearm instructor I carry a responsibility that goes far beyond teaching people how to shoot. I shape attitudes, build safe habits, and influence how students think about firearms for the rest of their lives. An instructor isn’t just knowledgeable — they’re a mentor, a communicator, and a guardian of safety”. 1. Safety Is My Unshakable Foundation Every reputable instructor treats safety as the core of their identity. They don’t just recite the rules — they model them in every movement. A good instructor: • Always demonstrates muzzle awareness • Enforces safe handling without compromise • Creates a controlled, calm learning environment • Explains why safety rules matter, not just what they are Students should feel confident, not intimidated, because they know the instructor is in full command of the range and the lesson. 2. Deep, Practical Knowledge — Not Just Book Learning A strong instructor understands firearms from the inside out. They know: • How different platforms operate • The mechanics behind malfunctions • Ammunition basics • Fundamentals of marksmanship • Real world application, not just theory But knowledge alone isn’t enough. The best instructors can translate complex concepts into simple, digestible steps that anyone can follow. 3. Clear, Patient Communication Teaching firearms is as much about people as it is about guns. A good instructor knows how to read a student’s body language, adjust their approach, and explain things in multiple ways. They: • Stay patient, even when a student struggles • Give corrections respectfully, never harshly • Break skills into manageable steps • Encourage questions and curiosity A great instructor makes students feel capable, not judged. 4. Strong Range Awareness On a live range, awareness is everything. A good instructor constantly monitors: • Muzzle direction • Trigger discipline • Student stress levels • Environmental factors • Range conditions They anticipate problems before they happen and intervene early, calmly, and decisively. 5 . Adaptability to Different Students No two shooters are the same. A good instructor adjusts their teaching style for: • New shooters • Experienced shooters with bad habits • Nervous students • Physically limited students • Left handed shooters • Law enforcement or defensive minded students They don’t force a one size fits all method. They tailor the lesson to the person in front of them. 6. Professionalism and Integrity A good instructor: • Shows up prepared • Maintains their equipment • Keeps their certifications current • Respects students’ time and goals • Avoids ego, bravado, or unsafe “showing off” They understand that professionalism builds trust — and trust is essential when firearms are involved. 7. Commitment to Continuous Improvement Firearms training is evolving. Techniques change. Gear changes. Laws change. A good instructor never stops learning. They: • Attend advanced courses • Study new training methods • Seek feedback • Stay humble enough to grow The best instructors are lifelong students themselves. 8. A Focus on Building Confidence, Not Fear A good instructor helps students feel: • Safe • Capable • In control • Empowered They don’t use intimidation or condescension. They build up shooters, one skill at a time. Conclusion A good firearms instructor is far more than a skilled shooter. They are a communicator, a safety expert, a mentor, and a steady presence on the range. My influence shapes not only how students shoot, but how they think about responsibility, discipline, and respect for firearms. Gregg Kielma USCCA 5 Star Instructor

How to Mount a Scope on a Rifle: A Practical Guide for Accuracy and Confidence By Gregg Kielma Says Gregg Kielma, Gunsmith and firearms Instructor, “I get asked this question all the time. Here is the 8-step process I use when mounting a scope on my rifle or a client’s rifle”. Note: The proper tools are needed to successfully mount the scope properly. Let’s Take a LOOK Mounting a scope is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to a rifle. A properly installed optic improves precision, extends effective range, and gives you a clearer sight picture. But a poorly mounted scope can cause frustration, wandering zero, or even damage to the optic. The good news is that with patience and the right approach, anyone can mount a scope correctly. This guide walks you through the process step by step, emphasizing safety, alignment, and long-term reliability. 1. Start With Safety and Preparation Before doing anything, ensure the rifle is unloaded, the chamber is clear, and ammunition is stored away from your workspace. Treat the rifle as if it’s loaded at all times. Set up a clean, well-lit bench with: • Your rifle • Scope rings or a one-piece mount • The scope • A torque wrench (recommended) • A bubble level or leveling tool • A soft cloth to protect surfaces A stable rest or gun vise makes the job easier, but it’s not mandatory. 2. Choose the Right Rings or Mount Your mounting hardware must match: • Tube diameter of the scope (commonly 1 inch or 30mm) • Objective size, which determines ring height • Rifle’s mounting system (Picatinny, Weaver, dovetail, proprietary bases) Quality rings matter. Cheap hardware often leads to slipping, misalignment, or inconsistent zero. 3. Install the Base or Rail If your rifle doesn’t already have a rail: • Clean the mounting surfaces • Apply a small amount of thread locker (non-permanent) to screws • Tighten screws evenly using manufacturer torque specs A secure base is the foundation of a reliable optic setup. 4. Attach the Lower Half of the Rings Place the lower halves of the rings on the rail and lightly tighten them so they can still slide. Position them far enough apart to support the scope tube without interfering with the turrets. 5. Set the Scope and Establish Eye Relief Place the scope gently into the lower rings and shoulder the rifle in your natural shooting position. Move the scope forward or backward until the sight picture is full and clear without any shadowing. Eye relief is critical: • Too close → risk of “scope bite” under recoil • Too far → reduced field of view Once you find the sweet spot, return the rifle to the bench without disturbing the scope. 6. Level the Reticle A canted reticle causes shots to drift left or right at longer distances. To avoid this: • Level the rifle using a bubble level • Level the scope by placing a second level on the turret cap or using a reticle leveling tool • Adjust until the vertical and horizontal lines are perfectly aligned Take your time here — this step affects long range accuracy more than people realize. 7. Install the Upper Ring Halves and Tighten Evenly Place the top halves of the rings over the scope and tighten the screws gradually in an X pattern. This ensures even pressure and prevents the scope from twisting. Use a torque wrench if possible. Over tightening can dent the scope tube; under tightening can cause it to shift under recoil. 8. Final Checks Before calling it done: • Re check eye relief • Confirm the reticle is still level • Ensure the scope doesn’t move when gently pushed • Cycle the bolt to ensure clearance • Verify that the objective bell doesn’t contact the barrel Everything should feel solid and aligned.