Gregory Kielma • October 20, 2023

Which Concealed Carry Holster Position Should I Use?


By Kat Ainsworth
09/12/2023


Which Concealed Carry Position Should I Use?

Whether you just recently acquired a carry permit or are a seasoned gun owner, it’s essential to understand the different positions in which you can carry a concealed gun. They include inside-the-waistband carry, outside-the-waistband carry, ankle carry, pocket carry and more. Once you know the options, you’ll be able to select the choice that best fits your individual needs.

Learning about concealed carry? Holsters and Concealed Carry gear are covered in our Concealed Carry & Home Defense Fundamentals training course!

So, how do you know which concealed carry position is really best for you? The first step to finding that answer is exploring your options…

Option 1: Outside-the-Waistband Positions (OWB)

OWB is often the realm of open carriers, but not always. Carrying this way is usually done on your strong side (at your hip) so that your gun falls directly under your hand when it comes time to draw.
If you’re thinking open carry doesn’t have practical uses, think again. For example, I am currently open carrying my Glock 48 in a Galco Gunleather TacSlide Belt Holster.
I’m open carrying because I am writing today and not going out, and thus it’s more comfortable and sensible for me. It also makes sense for manual labor, manning a firing line at the range and during hunts.

However, you don’t necessarily have to open carry with OWB.

Concealing OWB is as simple as selecting a good cover garment. A loose sweatshirt easily conceals my Glock 48, and an oversized T-shirt gets the job done as well.

If possible, try to avoid wearing one of those “shoot me first” vests. These tactical-looking vests, like those used for IDPA, are recognizable thanks to the many pockets. If you want to wear a vest away from the range, invest in some plain fleece designs.

OWB Holster Selection

When you’re carrying OWB, you should select a holster that fits snugly to your hip. Also, rather than placing your holster directly over the edge of your hip — the 3 o’clock position — put it farther back (between 3 o’clock and 4 o’clock). This helps with ease of draw, defense, concealment and comfort. 

The RIGHT holster for your body type will:
• Help with ease of draw
• Hold your gun in a secure, defensible position
• Offer adequate clothing concealment
• Be comfortable

The WRONG holster for your body type will:
• Cause your gun to protrude through or past clothing
• Slip or shift on your body
• Hold your gun loosely and insecurely

A personal favorite OWB holster is the Galco Gun leather Combat Master Belt Holster. It’s a pancake-style holster with a butt-forward cant, two belt loops and an open muzzle. This pancake style is suitable for strong-side OWB carry.

Option 2: Inside the Waistband Positions (IWB)

Carrying IWB offers practically limitless variations. For brevity’s sake, we’re going to discuss IWB in general, without getting into exact carry locations on your body. Overall, carrying your gun inside of your pants rather than outside of them is a concealment no-brainer.

However, you may need to adjust your wardrobe to accommodate sticking an object in your waistband. This applies especially for women’s concealed carry, as women’s clothing is typically more form-fitting.

A properly fitted IWB holster holds your handgun in a way that is comfortable and won’t print (i.e. it won’t be evident through your clothing). These holsters carry your gun a bit higher on your body than OWB designs.
.
As always, your IWB holster must provide good retention and fully protect the trigger guard. Don’t slack off and get a soft, shapeless holster that attaches to your pants with a cheap clip (or has no clip at all).
Your holster should be made of quality, stiff material such as Kydex or well-designed leather, molded to your gun’s specific model and attached to your belt by secure loops or metal clips.

Option 3: Appendix Inside the Waistband Positions(AIWB) 

Carrying AIWB means you’ve holstered your gun in front of your hip bone at approximately the 1 o’clock position.

This pelvically placed method seems to draw either outright horror or adoration from gun carriers; there is no middle ground. The reality is that carry methods are unique to the individual. Aside from comfort and concealability, skill set does matter.

AIWB puts your gun in a spot more in line with the angle of your hands and allows for rapid presentation, but carrying this way requires the right holster, practice AND attention to detail.

A favorite AIWB holster of mine is the PHLster Glock Classic Holster. “The Keeper,” by Keepers Concealment, is another option for those who are considering AIWB.

Remember, for AIWB carry, both ride height and gun cant need to be just right for maximum comfort and practicality.

Overall, it’s the opinion of many that AIWB carry offers a lot of advantages, while the supposed dangers are either overblown, wrongly understood or can be mitigated.

Consider the table below for a quick reference on the pros and cons of these top three concealed carry methods:

Carry Type  OWB    IWB   AIWB

Faster Draw Access âś“ X âś“
Ease of Access âś“ X âś“
Greater Comfort âś“ X âś“
Ease of Reholstering âś“ X X
Protected From Gun Grabs âś“ âś“ âś“
Superior Natural Concealment X âś“ âś“
Requires NO Clothing Modification (Sizing) âś“ X X
Easily Concealed With Clothing X âś“ âś“
Gun Positioned Away From Major Organs/Etc. âś“ âś“ X

Other Concealed Carry Methods
There are, of course, a wide variety of other methods for concealed carry, including:
• Small-of-the-back carry
• Cross-draw
• Pocket carry
• Ankle holsters
• Bra holsters
• Belly bands
• Corset holsters

Whichever method and holster you choose, ask yourself the following questions:
• Can I draw quickly and safely, without endangering myself or someone near me?
• Is my gun defendable in a hand-to-hand scenario?
• Is my gun concealable?
• Are my holster and belt good quality?
• Could I do it better if I carried differently?


Ultimately, all carry methods require diligence. Far too many gun owners don’t practice presenting from their holsters, let alone with their concealed carry holsters. Being a responsible gun owner involves regular training. 

If you expect the pieces to magically fall into place when it comes time to draw your firearm, you will be surprised — and possibly fatally disappointed.

Finally, take concealed carrying seriously. Do your research and understand that you might have to go through a lot of holsters before you find the right one. A gun left in a safe doesn’t help you at all. Your safety is YOUR responsibility.

About The Author: Kat Ainsworth

Outdoor writer Kat Ainsworth has been carrying concealed for 15 years and hunting for more than 20 years. She writes for a variety of industry publications, covering hunting, ballistics and self-defense, though she has a background in K9 Search-and-Rescue and emergency veterinary medicine. Kat calls Marshfield, Wisconsin, home, but she enjoys traveling as part of her gun-related lifestyle. She has yet to find a firearm she didn’t want to fire.

By Gregory Kielma February 1, 2026
The Age-Old Debate… Who Shoots Better, Men or Women? By Gregg Kielma-Tactical K Training and Firearms As a professional instructor here is my perspective. Let’s Take a LOOK As a firearms instructor, I’ve spent countless hours on the range working with shooters of every background—men, women, young adults, seniors, first timers, and seasoned gun owners. One question comes up more often than you might expect: “Who shoots better, men or women?” From my experience, the answer isn’t as simple as choosing one over the other. Shooting skill isn’t determined by gender—it’s shaped by mindset, training, and the willingness to learn. But there are consistent tendencies I see on the range, and they’re worth talking about. Women Often Excel in the Fundamentals Many women come into training without preconceived notions about firearms. They’re not trying to prove anything; they’re trying to learn. That mindset gives them a major advantage. • They listen closely to instruction. • They don’t fight the fundamentals. • They’re patient with themselves. • They’re more open to correcting mistakes early. Because of this, women often develop solid technique faster than men, especially in areas like trigger control, stance, and sight alignment. I’ve seen many women outshoot their husbands, boyfriends, or male friends within the first hour of training. Men Often Bring Confidence—Sometimes Too Much Confidence can be an asset on the range, but it can also get in the way. Many men arrive with prior experience or assumptions about how shooting “should” work. That can lead to: • Overconfidence in bad habits • Resistance to correction • Rushing shots • Trying to muscle the firearm instead of letting technique do the work Once men slow down, accept coaching, and focus on fundamentals, they improve quickly. But early on, that confidence gap can make women appear to be the “better shooters.” Skill Comes Down to Discipline, Not Gender After training thousands of shooters, I can say this with certainty: The best shooters are the ones who respect the process. The ones who: • Practice consistently • Stay humble • Focus on safety • Build good habits • Seek continuous improvement I’ve seen exceptional male shooters and exceptional female shooters. I’ve also seen both struggle. The difference isn’t physical strength or gender—it’s mindset and discipline. Why This Question Matters When people ask who shoots better, they’re usually trying to understand what to expect from training. My answer is always the same: Everyone can become a highly skilled, confident, and safe shooter with proper instruction and the right attitude. At my range, I don’t train “men” or “women.” I train students—each with their own strengths, challenges, and goals. Kielma’s Parting Shot If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: Women often start stronger, but men catch up fast once they embrace the fundamentals. But in the end, the real competition isn’t between men and women. It’s between who you were yesterday and the safer, more skilled shooter you can become today. Gregg Kielma
By Gregory Kielma February 1, 2026
90 Day Firearm Hold/Storage Policy: Why It Matters and What Clients Need to Know Tactical K Training and Firearms As a firearms instructor and business owner, I’ve learned that clarity, consistency, and responsibility are the backbone of any safe and professional operation. One area where this becomes especially important is how long a firearm can be left in my possession—whether for training, cleaning, mounting optics, troubleshooting, or any other service. To protect both the gun owner and my business, I follow a 90 day policy for firearms left on site. Not years. This isn’t about being strict for the sake of it; it’s about maintaining accountability, legal compliance, and respect for the property entrusted to me. Why a 90 Day Policy Exists 1. Firearms Are Not Items to Be Abandoned A gun isn’t a forgotten lawnmower or a pair of shoes at the cobbler. It’s a regulated tool that demands responsible handling and timely retrieval. When a firearm sits unclaimed, it creates unnecessary liability and risk. • Storage Costs: $10.00 per firearm per month. 2. Secure Storage Is Limited and Regulated Every firearm left in my care must be stored securely, logged, and monitored. Space is finite, and the longer a gun sits, the more it complicates inventory, insurance, and compliance. 3. Accountability Protects Everyone A clear timeline ensures: • The owner stays engaged and responsible • I maintain accurate records • There’s no confusion about ownership or intent A 90 day window is fair, reasonable, and gives ample time for pickup—even with life’s interruptions. What Happens After 90 Days If a firearm remains unclaimed after 90 days, it enters the forfeiture process. This is not a punishment—it’s a necessary step to protect the integrity of my business and comply with legal and safety standards. Consequences of Forfeiture Once forfeited, the firearm may be: • Disposed of according to policy • Sold or transferred legally • Used to recover storage or service costs At that point, the original owner loses all rights to the firearm. It cannot be reclaimed, reversed, or disputed after the forfeiture is complete. Communication Is Key It’s incumbent on you to make every effort to contact Tactical K Training and Firearms before the 90 day mark to make arrangements for pick up or extend the hold for 90 more days: • Phone calls • Emails • Text reminders Ultimately, the responsibility lies with the firearm owner. If you leave a gun with me, stay in touch. If something comes up, communicate. I’m always willing to work with someone who reaches out. Why This Policy Protects Responsible Gun Owners A structured system reinforces the values I teach every day: • Responsibility • Accountability • Respect for firearms • Respect for others’ time and property When gun owners follow the policy, everyone benefits. When they don’t, the consequences are clear and fair. Tactical K Training and Firearms Final Thoughts My goal is never to take someone’s firearm. My goal is to run a safe, professional, and legally compliant operation that serves responsible gun owners. The 90 day policy ensures that firearms don’t sit forgotten, that my storage remains secure, and that every gun in my possession is accounted for. If you entrust me with your firearm, I take that responsibility seriously. All I ask is that you do the same. Gregg Kielma
By Gregory Kielma February 1, 2026
Gregg Kielma Tactical Training at My Range: A Perspective From the Instructor’s Side Gregg Kielma-Tactical K Training and Firearms Tactical training isn’t just a service I offer at Tactical K Training and Firearms—it’s a responsibility I take personally. Every time a student steps onto my range, I’m reminded that they’re trusting me with something far more important than marksmanship. They’re trusting me with their safety, their confidence, and in many cases, their ability to protect the people they love. That trust shapes everything I do. A Training Philosophy Built on Real-World Purpose My approach to tactical training is simple: it must be practical, it must be safe, and it must be rooted in real-world application. I don’t teach fantasy scenarios or encourage a “warrior mindset.” I teach avoidance, awareness, and the skills necessary to survive and escape dangerous situations. Firearms are tools of last resort, and I make sure every student understands that before we ever load a magazine. When someone trains with me, they learn more than how to shoot. They learn how to think under pressure, how to move with purpose, and how to make decisions that prioritize life over ego. That’s the heart of tactical training. A Range Dedicated for Learning, Not Intimidation My outdoor range in Parrish, Florida, is intentionally set up to be welcoming and controlled. Students don’t need to be experts to train here. They don’t need to show up with the latest gear or years of experience. What they need is an open mind and a willingness to learn. I structure every session to match the student’s comfort level. Whether it’s a brand new gun owner or someone preparing for advanced defensive scenarios, I meet them where they are. No yelling, no pressure, no judgment—just clear instruction, steady progression, and a focus on building confidence. Training That Builds Skills You Can Depend On Tactical training at my range covers a wide spectrum of real-life skills: • Safe firearm handling under stress • Drawing from concealment • Movement, cover, and positional shooting • Decision making and threat identification • Home defense fundamentals • Situational awareness and de escalation Every drill has a purpose, and every purpose ties back to one goal: helping students become responsible, capable, and confident gun owners. Why I Teach the Way I Do I’ve seen what happens when people rely on luck instead of training. I’ve seen what happens when someone buys a firearm but never learns how to use it safely. That’s why I take my role seriously. My job isn’t to impress students—it’s to prepare them. When someone leaves my range, I want them to walk away with more than improved accuracy. I want them to walk away with a mindset that prioritizes safety, responsibility, and respect for the tool they carry. Kielma's Parting Shot: A Community Built on Responsibility Tactical K Training and Firearms isn’t just a business. It’s a community of people who value preparedness, safety, and continuous learning. I’m proud of the students who train here—people who choose to invest in themselves and take ownership of their skills. From first time shooters to seasoned firearm owners, everyone who trains with me becomes part of that community. And every time I see a student grow, improve, and gain confidence, it reinforces why I do what I do.
By Gregory Kielma February 1, 2026
The Top 10 Pistols Made in America By Gregg Kielma, Tactical K Training and Firearms As an instructor and lifelong student of firearms, I’ve had the privilege of working with pistols from every corner of the industry. But there’s something special about American made handguns — the engineering, the innovation, and the pride that goes into each design. Whether for concealed carry, home defense, competition, or professional use, the United States produces some of the finest pistols in the world. These are the top 10 American made pistols that consistently stand out in performance, reliability, and real-world practicality. 1. Glock 42/43/47 (Georgia) While Glock is Austrian by origin, many of its most popular models are manufactured right here in America. The slimline 42 and 43 are outstanding for concealed carry, and the 47 brings duty grade performance with Glock’s signature simplicity and reliability. 2. Smith & Wesson M&P Series (Massachusetts / Tennessee) The M&P line has earned its place as one of the most trusted platforms in law enforcement and civilian carry. With excellent ergonomics, modularity, and a proven track record, the M&P series delivers reliability you can stake your life on. 3. SIG Sauer P320 (New Hampshire) The P320’s modular fire control unit changed the industry. Its adaptability, accuracy, and clean trigger make it a favorite among professionals — and its selection as the U.S. military’s M17/M18 platform speaks volumes. 4. Ruger American Pistol (North Carolina / New Hampshire) Ruger’s American Pistol is built like a tank. With a robust chassis system, excellent recoil management, and rugged construction, it’s a dependable option for shooters who want durability above all else. 5. Kimber 1911 Series (Alabama) Kimber produces some of the finest production 1911s available. Their attention to detail, crisp triggers, and tight tolerances make them a favorite for shooters who appreciate classic American craftsmanship. 6. Springfield Armory 1911 (Illinois) Springfield’s 1911 lineup blends tradition with modern enhancements. From entry level models to high end custom shop builds, these pistols offer exceptional accuracy and a timeless feel. 7. Colt Government Model 1911 (Connecticut) The original American fighting pistol. Colt’s 1911 remains a benchmark for reliability and heritage. For many shooters — myself included — it represents the foundation of modern handgun design. 8. Staccato 2011 Series (Texas) Staccato pistols have become the gold standard in duty grade performance. Their 2011 platform offers unmatched shootability, fast follow up shots, and competition level accuracy in a defensive ready package. 9. Walther PDP (Arkansas) Walther’s U.S. produced PDP has one of the best striker fired triggers on the market. Its ergonomics and optics ready design make it a top choice for shooters who want precision without sacrificing comfort. 10. FN 509 Series (South Carolina) Built to compete in the U.S. Army’s handgun trials, the FN 509 is rugged, reliable, and combat proven. FN’s American manufacturing facility produces some of the most durable pistols available today. Kielma’s Parting Shot As an instructor, I always remind students that the “best” pistol is the one that fits your hand, your purpose, and your level of training. But these ten American made pistols consistently rise to the top because they combine engineering excellence with real world reliability. Whether you’re a new gun owner or a seasoned shooter, investing in a quality American made pistol is a decision you can feel confident about — and at Tactical K Training and Firearms, we’re here to help you make that choice with knowledge, skill, and responsibility.
By Gregory Kielma January 31, 2026
Marijuana and Firearms: A Responsible Perspective By Gregg Kielma 01/31/2026 As a firearms instructor, my priority is always the same: safety, legality, and sound judgment. That means having honest conversations about topics that affect responsible gun ownership—even when those topics are uncomfortable or misunderstood. One of the biggest areas of confusion today is the relationship between marijuana use and firearms. Whether someone uses marijuana recreationally or medicinally, the reality is simple: you cannot mix impaired judgment with a firearm. A firearm demands clarity, awareness, and the ability to make life‑altering decisions in fractions of a second. Anything that dulls reaction time, alters perception, or affects decision‑making undermines the core principles of responsible gun ownership. Beyond safety, there’s the legal side. Even in states where marijuana is legal, federal law still classifies it as a controlled substance. That means marijuana users—regardless of state law—can face serious federal consequences if they possess or attempt to purchase a firearm. Many gun owners don’t realize that answering “yes” to marijuana use on a federal background check disqualifies them, and answering “no” when they do use it is a federal crime. These are not small technicalities; they’re issues that can cost someone their rights, their record, and their future. From my perspective, responsible ownership means understanding the law, respecting the law, and making choices that protect yourself and those around you. If someone chooses to use marijuana, that’s their decision—but they must also understand how that decision affects their ability to legally and safely own or handle a firearm. Kielma's Parting Shot Firearms and impaired judgment simply do not mix. My goal is to help every student make informed, responsible decisions that keep them safe, keep them legal, and keep them in control.
By Gregory Kielma January 31, 2026
Nashua Woman Pleads Guilty to Straw Purchasing a Firearm Later Recovered at a Crime Scene CONCORD – A Nashua woman pleaded guilty today in federal court to making a false statement to acquire a firearm for another person, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces. Tanya Hunter, 40, pleaded guilty to making a false statement in connection with acquiring a firearm. According to the charging documents and statements made in court, on December 20, 2023, Hunter purchased the gun from a federally licensed firearms dealer in Hudson, New Hampshire, for a Massachusetts man. Hunter lied on the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) form for the purchase when she said she was the actual buyer or transferee of the firearm. The firearm was later recovered from a crime scene in Massachusetts. The charges carry a possible sentence of up to 10 years imprisonment, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. The Court scheduled sentencing in this matter for May 11, 2026. The investigation was led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Howard is prosecuting the case. Updated January 29, 2026
By Gregory Kielma January 31, 2026
FRT Update 01/31/2026 In a move that has stunned many in the firearms community, the United States government, through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), filed a rare “Statement of Interest” on January 26, 2026, in a private patent infringement lawsuit in the Eastern District of Tennessee. The case pits ABC IP, LLC and Rare Breed Triggers, Inc. against Timothy Hoffman, an individual inventor, and his small Tennessee-based company, Hoffman Tactical LLC. Rather than remaining neutral in what is ostensibly a civil dispute over intellectual property, the Department of Justice chose to weigh in heavily on the side of the plaintiffs, urging the court to consider the “public interest” as strongly favoring a preliminary injunction against Hoffman. At the heart of the dispute are forced reset triggers (FRTs). These devices allow semi-automatic firearms to achieve a faster cyclic rate by mechanically resetting the trigger after each shot. Rare Breed Triggers holds several patents on its version of this technology, and it alleges that Hoffman infringed those patents by designing and publicly sharing 3D-printable files for a similar “super safety” trigger design. Hoffman, like many innovators in the 3D-printing and home-gun-building community, openly released his files, enabling hobbyists to experiment and manufacture their own parts. What makes this case extraordinary is the federal government’s intervention. The ATF’s filing explicitly states that it has a “strong interest… in discouraging unregulated manufacture of forced reset triggers.” It argues that enjoining Hoffman would advance public safety and support the agency’s broader efforts to limit the proliferation of FRTs. Remarkably, the government cites a May 2025 settlement agreement it reached with Rare Breed, after years of aggressive enforcement actions against the company, as justification for now backing Rare Breed’s private patent enforcement crusade. This settlement is worth examining closely. After the Supreme Court’s 2024 decision in Garland v. Cargill struck down the ATF’s bump-stock rule, the agency’s legal position on other rapid-fire devices like FRTs became precarious. Facing multiple adverse court rulings, the ATF chose to settle its civil enforcement actions against Rare Breed. In exchange for dropping the lawsuits, Rare Breed agreed not to design FRTs for handguns and crucially to “take all reasonable efforts to enforce its patents and seek injunctions” against anyone else making or distributing FRTs. In essence, the government outsourced part of its regulatory agenda to a private company, turning a former enforcement target into an ally. Now, when a small inventor like Timothy Hoffman independently develops and shares a competing design, the federal government steps in, not to prosecute him criminally, but to lend its considerable weight to a corporate plaintiff seeking to shut him down. This move is a profoundly troubling development for several reasons.
By Gregory Kielma January 31, 2026
Before Prices Shift: An Important Update The inevitable is upon us, as price increases plan to take effect on April 1, 2026. These changes will apply to a wide variety of ammunition types, from rifle ammo to shot shells. Largely due to the volatile nature of raw materials utilized in ammo production, such as copper, lead, and zinc; manufacturers have emphasized this price adjustment is simply unavoidable. Here’s the breakdown: • No sole manufacturer will be affected, multiple brands will show adjusted pricing • Increases are predicted to fall in the low to mid-single digit range • Orders shipped on or after April 1 may reflect new pricing This means you may not have all that long before the current prices you see on shelves today, disappear. So, take action now. For more information, click here to read the full article.
By Gregory Kielma January 30, 2026
VR Firearms Training at Tactical K Training and Firearms: How ACE and Meta Are Enhancing My Students’ Skills By Gregg Kielma-Tactical K Training and Firearms As an instructor who has spent years teaching responsible firearm handling in real world environments, I never adopt new technology just because it’s trendy. It must add value, reinforce safety, and genuinely improve a student’s ability to make good decisions under stress. That’s why VR training with ACE and the Meta platform has earned a place in my program — not as a replacement for live fire instruction, but as a powerful tool that strengthens everything we do on the range. A Safe Way to Build Confidence Before Live Fire One of the biggest advantages of VR is the ability to introduce new shooters to firearms concepts without the pressure of recoil, noise, or the anxiety that sometimes comes with handling a real weapon for the first time. Inside the ACE training environment, students can practice stance, grip, sight alignment, and movement in a calm, controlled setting. For many beginners, this reduces the learning curve dramatically. By the time they step onto my outdoor range, they already understand the fundamentals and feel more prepared. Realistic Scenarios Without Real World Risk ACE’s scenario-based modules allow me to expose students to decision making situations that would be impossible — or unsafe — to recreate in person. They can practice threat identification, situational awareness, and de escalation in a virtual environment that feels immersive but carries zero physical risk. This aligns perfectly with my teaching philosophy: avoidance first, escape if possible, and defense only as a last resort. VR gives students a chance to experience those judgment calls in a way that’s both educational and emotionally manageable. Repetition Without Fatigue In VR, students can repeat drills endlessly without burning through ammunition or dealing with physical fatigue. That means more reps, more consistency, and more opportunities to correct mistakes early. Whether it’s drawing from concealment, moving to cover, or practicing reloads, VR allows for focused, efficient skill building that complements the hands-on work we do with real firearms. A Bridge Between Technology and Practical Training I’ve found that VR doesn’t replace the range — it enhances it. Students who train with ACE and Meta tend to arrive more confident, more aware, and more mentally prepared. When they transition to live fire, they absorb instruction faster and make fewer fundamental errors. For experienced shooters, VR offers a way to sharpen decision making and refine tactics without the limitations of physical space. For beginners, it provides a gentle introduction that builds comfort and competence. The Future of Responsible Firearms Education As technology evolves, so does the way we teach. VR training with ACE and Meta has become a valuable part of my curriculum because it supports the same goals I’ve always had, safety, confidence, and responsible firearm ownership. Kielma’s Parting Shot: Combined with ACE and Meta, it’s not about replacing traditional training — it’s about giving students every possible advantage to learn the right way, at the right pace, in the right environment. Gregg Kielma
By Gregory Kielma January 30, 2026
Instructor Rick S and Student Training in My Pasture: A Look at Your Outdoor Range: Tactical K Training and Firearms Gregg Kielma Set in the quiet openness of a Florida farm pasture, your outdoor shooting range offers something that’s getting harder to find these days — a private, peaceful, and purpose-built space where students can learn without pressure or distraction. The setting isn’t just scenic, cows and all, it plays a real role in the quality of training we deliver at Tactical K Training and Firearms. A Natural, Comfortable Environment The wide-open pasture creates a calm backdrop for learning. Fresh air, open sky, and the natural spacing of the land help students feel at ease, especially those who may be nervous or new to firearms. The rural setting also keeps noise low and distractions minimal, allowing shooters to focus on fundamentals and safety. Designed for Practical, Real World Training My range layout takes advantage of the pasture’s natural contours, giving you safe shooting lanes, solid backstops, and plenty of room for controlled drills. Whether teaching basic marksmanship, firearm handling, or scenario based skills, the space supports the kind of practical, real world training that responsible gun owners appreciate. Safety as the Foundation Even in a relaxed farm setting, my range maintains the same disciplined safety standards we are known for. Clear boundaries, structured instruction, and your emphasis on avoidance, escape, and defense ensure that every student understands not just how to shoot, but how to do so responsibly. A Personal, One on One Experience Unlike crowded public ranges, my pasture range offers privacy and personal attention. Students can ask questions freely, take their time, and build confidence at a pace that fits them. The farm setting reinforces that sense of comfort — it feels like learning with a trusted instructor like Gregg Kielma or Rick S, not performing in front of strangers. More Than a Range — A Place to Grow My outdoor pasture range isn’t just a place to fire rounds. It’s a place where people gain skills, confidence, and a deeper respect for safe firearm ownership. The combination of professional instruction and a peaceful rural setting creates an experience that sticks with students long after they leave. Gregg Kielma