Our Cities Are In Chaos
Gregory Kielma • September 5, 2025
Our Cities Are Being Taken Over and Going TO HELL
Our Cities Are Being Taken Over and Going TO HELL
Says Gregg Kielma FFL and Firearms Instructor, "please stay safe and be ready".
An expert in crime prevention and reduction told Fox News Digital that the recent rash of urban organized street takeovers leaves residents in fear, and feeling like authorities don't have control over the streets they are supposed to protect.
"Whether you're having dinner or studying or getting ready to go to bed, they're loud. They're disorganized. They're not good for the neighborhood or the city," said John Jay College of Criminal Justice professor Peter Moskos. "And it also gives the perception, rooted in reality in this case, that nobody's in control."
Over the past few weeks, there have been at least nine such high-profile incidents across the country.
Moskos was a police officer in Baltimore's Eastern District, a notoriously rough part of the city, before becoming an academic. He is also the author of the recently published book "Back from the Brink: Inside the NYPD and New York City's Extraordinary 1990s Crime Drop."
"And that creates fear," Moskos continued. "It creates a disconnect with what you expect government to be able to do, which is to, at a basic extent, just maintain public order.
"They're dangerous to the public. They're dangerous to participants," he said. "But there's also the quality-of-life factors that if you live near where this is happening repeatedly, you just simply don't want it happening."
On Aug. 9, around 50 vehicles wreaked havoc outside the Crypto.com Arena, home of the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers and the NHL's Los Angeles Kings, doing donuts and burnouts while onlookers set off fireworks and shot paintball guns at vehicles, according to KTLA.
Two people also reportedly broke into a storefront and looted merchandise during the event.
Stemming from a recent street takeover in Carson, California, part of Los Angeles County, authorities reportedly arrested 64 spectators and towed 25 vehicles. Two vehicles were impounded for 30 days, and eight traffic citations were issued.
Moskos said the first step to tackling the phenomenon is to understand why it's happening. He said it has become "cool" in the eyes of the participants, and that one way to make street takeovers uncool again is for politicians to have the will to crack down on the practice.
"The politicians in charge need to say this is unacceptable, and we're going to end it. It is possible to end that. We can change culture. We can certainly stop people from engaging in this one activity, but there are going to be consequences," he said.
Social media plays a role in the continued trend.
"Given that everyone has a phone, there is going to be social media attention to this. But that is part of the appeal," he said.
On Aug. 13, 200 bikers took to the streets in Tampa, Florida, swerving through traffic and on sidewalks, flying through intersections and doing wheelies.
"We definitely felt that there was an extreme danger at that point, and we needed to address it," said Tampa Police Maj. Les Richardson," according to FOX 13.
On Aug. 16, "hundreds of people and cars" swarmed Home Depot, In-N-Out and Target parking lots in what was described as an "illegal" street takeover in Seaside, California, according to KSBW. The local police department said it is planning enforcement actions for future takeovers.
On the same day, 100 cyclists, e-bike and dirt bike riders took over a Boston highway, terrifying local drivers. The incident resulted in a collision with a Massachusetts State Police vehicle. Only one person was arrested.
In Charlotte, North Carolina, police announced on X that 98 people were arrested during the week of Aug. 11 for their roles in numerous street takeovers throughout the city.
"Here we are again... because apparently some folks still think turning intersections into racetracks is a good idea. We're here to remind you – it's NOT. Still illegal. Still dangerous. Still getting shut down," the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department said. "Street stunts have consequences! And we'll be here to remind you of that, every time."
Along with the arrests, police said numerous vehicles have been seized in connection with the takeovers.
On Aug. 18, the Dallas Police Department, which has a Street Racing Task Force, responded to a street takeover that included a "large group of motorcycles, dirt bikes and off-road vehicles doing stunts, blocking both directions of travel, and driving dangerously."
Police said that 30 citations were issued for various violations of license, registration and insurance laws. 12 e-bikes and dirt bikers were seized.
"We enforce Texas laws to keep our streets safe," said Maj. Gabriel Candelaria, commander of the Northeast Patrol Division. "Our streets are not a stage for stunt driving and reckless behavior."
As for solutions, Moskos said that if the culture doesn't change, other methods can be explored.
"Maybe the answer is to put physical obstacles in certain places when it's safe to do so," he said. "And again, these have to be figured out at the local level, and again, ideally in cooperation with neighborhood groups, with other city agencies. But it is something that we can police our way out of."
In early August, a Cleveland City councilman, Michael Polensek, witnessed and video recorded a street takeover in the city, according to Cleveland 19 News. He observed multiple vehicles without license plates taking part in the charade.
A 911 caller reportedly said, "approximately 500 dirt bikes are blocking three gas stations."
"Charge them for going through the red lights, charge them for endangering motorists -- go after these people because unless you do that, it’s not going to stop and someone is going to get hurt, and someone’s going to get killed," Polensek told the news outlet.
In Cincinnati, 17 cars were involved in an early August Street takeover. Four vehicles were impounded stemming from that incident.
All in all, the crackdowns will have to continue until street takeover ringleaders and participants are totally deterred.
"You can't just say one and done and say, 'Look, we arrested 100 people, therefore it's a success.' No, in a way, you arrested 100 people, [and] that was a failure," said Moskos. "It might be the path toward success, but you just have to keep it up till people change their behavior. I mean the thing about policing is it is a verb, and it's not always done by police. But you're trying to police behavior and it can be done."
Two More Worthless Feel-Good “Buybacks” That Won’t Make Anyone Safer Mark Chesnut It’s hard to describe the disdain I have for so-called gun “buybacks,” since they are nothing, but feel-good publicity stunts held by anti-gun bureaucrats to act like they are doing something to curtail criminal violence. They are so worthless, in fact, that Texas lawmakers are trying to ban them altogether! Still, politicians in some anti-gun states continue to make a big deal out of “buybacks.” And two such recent events in New Mexico and California prove gun-banners are more interested in deceiving their constituents than cracking down on violent criminals who use guns for evil. An article headline at koat.com summed up the jubilation over the August 23 “buyback” in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It read: “Gun buy-back eases worry about unwanted firearms.” Of course, easing worry and making the community safer are drastically different things. Still, Miranda Viscoli, executive director of New Mexicans for the Prevention of Gun Violence, bragged about the 200-plus guns taken in by her group at the University of New Mexico Police substation. “We’re getting all of the unwanted firearms out of communities,” Viscoli told the news station. “We know that communities that have more guns have more gun violence. That’s a simple fact.” Of course, that’s not a “simple fact,” or any kind of fact for that matter. Before I explain why, let’s jump over to San Diego, California, where anti-gunners there also think they are doing the Lord’s work by compensating people to confiscate 270 of their firearms over the same weekend. At that event, individuals received a $100 gift card for handguns, rifles and shotguns, or a $200 gift card for so-called “assault weapons.” A report at nbcsandiego.com was even thorough enough to announce to all gun owners in the area that if they missed the event, “The public can always turn in their unwanted weapons at any Sheriff’s station or substation, as well as at any law enforcement agency.” Well, that’s a relief! Now, here’s why both “buybacks” were bogus, feel-good efforts. And if the sponsors of the events don’t already know that it’s because they are ignoring the facts that are available to anyone wanting to investigate the matter. First, they can’t be “buybacks” because the government never owned the firearms they are confiscating through compensation. Equally as important, a 2022 study looking at the effectiveness of so-called gun “buybacks,” what the researchers called GBPs, and published by the National Bureau of Economic Research, concluded that such “buybacks” have no measurable impact on reducing violent crime. The paper is titled “Have U.S. Gun Buybacks Misfired,” and was authored by Toshio Ferrazares, Joseph J. Sabia and D. Mark Anderson. “Gun buyback programs (GBPs), which use public funds to purchase civilians’ privately-owned firearms, aim to reduce gun violence,” the paper’s abstract stated. “However, little is known about their effects on firearm-related crime or deaths. Using data from the National Incident Based Reporting System, we find no evidence that GBPs reduce gun crime.” That said, the abstract provided further information that should put an end to the fallacy of such events once and for all. “Given our estimated null findings, with 95 percent confidence, we can rule out decreases in firearm-related crime of greater than 1.3 percent during the year following a buyback,” the abstract concluded. “Using data from the National Vital Statistics System, we also find no evidence that GBPs reduce suicides or homicides where a firearm was involved.” So, there you have it: gun buybacks are not effective at helping anything—except anti-gun politicians mislead their constituents and anti-gun groups make it look like they are “doing something” so they can solicit more donations.
N.M. Waiting Period Ruled Unconstitutional The 10th Circuit Court of Appeals has determined that New Mexico’s waiting period law, which requires gun purchasers to wait seven days after completing payment and passing a background check, is unconstitutional. HB 129, signed into law by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham in 2024, established a seven-day waiting period for any gun buyer, except those holding a concealed handgun license, who successfully completes an FBI background check. The legislation also included an additional provision. According to the law: “If the required federal instant background check has not been completed within twenty days, the seller may transfer the firearm to the buyer.” Under existing federal law, if there is a NICS delay and no response within three days of the background check, the Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) may choose to complete the transaction. On August 19, a panel of three judges from the 10th Circuit Court ruled in Ortega v. Grisham that the law violated the Second Amendment. The lawsuit was filed by the National Rifle Association and the Mountain States Legal Foundation. The court stated: “Cooling-off periods infringe on the Second Amendment by preventing the lawful acquisition of firearms. Cooling off periods do not fit into any historically grounded exceptions to the right to keep and bear arms and burden conduct within the Second Amendment’s scope. In this preliminary posture, we conclude that New Mexico’s Waiting Period Act is likely an unconstitutional burden on the Second Amendment rights of its citizens. We also conclude the other preliminary injunction factors are met and that Plaintiffs are entitled to an injunction.”
Marianna Mitchem Former ATF Senior Official Joins Everytown for Gun Safety Marianna Mitchem, formerly the Associate Assistant Director of Field Operations (Industry Operations) at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), has joined Everytown for Gun Safety, an organization founded by former New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg. This information was provided by a former ATF senior official who requested anonymity. According to this source, Mitchem has engaged with her former colleagues since joining Everytown, with a focus on issues related to Glock and similar handguns. Mitchem’s career at ATF began in 2005 as an Industry Operations Investigator (IOI), responsible for inspecting firearms retailers to ensure compliance with record-keeping and inventory standards. She did not serve as an armed Special Agent during her tenure. In 2011, Mitchem was promoted to field supervisor, and by 2014, she led Industry Operations for ATF’s Phoenix Field Division. Her move to Washington, D.C. came in 2017 when she became deputy chief of Field Management Staff; she was subsequently promoted to Chief in 2018. By 2019, Mitchem served as ATF’s deputy chief of staff, reporting directly to the agency’s director, and in 2020, she advanced to chief of the Firearms and Explosives Industry Division. Her final position at ATF was Associate Assistant Director of Field Operations (Industry Operations), which she held from March 2024 until departing in May 2025. Professional Character The former ATF senior official described Mitchem as intelligent and an effective communicator, also noting that she holds strong views regarding firearm regulation. Anti-gun history Marianna Mitchem, the former ATF senior official who worked with Mitchem said she was smart, a good communicator, but very anti-gun.
For those of you who do openly carry your firearm, have you had a "concerned citizen" call the police on you? What happened? Did you continue to openly carry after that? From and Avid reader of my blog Yes I do and yes I have, and yes I continue to do so. I was at Walmart six years ago, my pistol on my hip, in my Kydex holster. As I exited the building an officer, whom I have been familiar with, but my wife knows well from her work, walked up to me. He told me someone called and described me, the shirt I was wearing, my hair (shaved at the time) and said that I was carrying a pistol in my hand around the store. I assured him that at no time had I unholstered my pistol and we talked for a few minutes about how often that kind of call happens. While we were talking a woman exited the store and stared at us, so he went and talked to her. I could tell she had called, as she pant-o-mimed how she said I had been carrying my pistol. I don’t know what was said between them, he wouldn’t tell me, but as he walked back towards me, she seemed miffed and was shaking her head. He smiled, shook his head and said, “Some people.”. I asked what she said, he rolled his eyes and shook his head. I asked if I was good to go, he said I could have left already, so I did. Since Walmart has changed their policy, I don’t intentionally openly carry my pistol in there anymore. I have on occasion, simply forgetting that I had it with me. One manager approached me and asked me not to do it anymore. I’m fine with that. My wife and I are friends with her, as she was a co-worker of mine many years ago.
Recently Convicted of a Felon: Here Are Your Options: Understand What You Must Do With Your Firearms
If you legally own guns and then get convicted of a felony are you supposed to get rid of your guns immediately? A felon selling a gun seems like a crime in itself! Says Gregg Kielma FFL and Firearms Instructor, "if convicted of a felon your time is short to dispose of your firearms. Please check with your state laws and attorney so you can dispose of them in a legal and proper way. As a newly convicted felon, you are no longer provided the right or rights to own a firearm. Doing so with will be a very bad situation if your caught with a firearm as a convicted felon. Just do the right thing. Disposing of a Defendant’s Firearms After a Felony Conviction The United States Supreme Court issued a unanimous decision regarding the disposition of a defendant’s firearms following a felony conviction in Henderson v. United States. This analysis addresses the case and its implications for North Carolina. Background. Tony Henderson, a gun owner, was charged with a federal felony drug offense. As a condition of pretrial release, he surrendered his firearms to the FBI and subsequently pled guilty to a felony, rendering him ineligible to possess firearms under federal law (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1)). Mr. Henderson requested that the FBI transfer the firearms to a friend who had agreed to purchase them; however, the FBI declined, contending that such a transfer would constitute constructive possession by Henderson. Litigation ensued. Ruling. Although both the trial court and the appellate court ruled in favor of the FBI, the Supreme Court unanimously reversed their decisions. The Court clarified that federal law prohibits felons from possessing firearms, rather than owning them. While possession incorporates constructive possession, courts cannot authorize transfers to individuals who would permit the felon to access or control the firearms. Provided the recipient would not facilitate such access, it remains an incident of ownership for the felon to sell or otherwise dispose of the firearms as desired. The Court further opined that preventing felons from selling their firearms does not advance the public safety objectives underlying the statute. The government proposed that transferring firearms to a licensed dealer for sale on the open market is a permissible approach, and the Court concurred; however, it emphasized this is not the sole available option, provided the transaction does not enable the felon to retain control over the firearms. The Court also suggested that a court may require assurances from the transferee to prevent the felon’s access and may deny the transfer if unsatisfied with the security measures. Limits of the Ruling. The decision does not confer unrestricted authority upon all felons to direct the disposition of their firearms. Four principal limitations are evident: First, the ruling interprets a federal statute and the equitable powers of federal courts, applying directly only to federal proceedings. Second, courts may not authorize sales or transfers to persons who might grant the felon control over the firearms. Third, felons whose firearms were used in the commission of a crime may have more limited rights regarding disposition than Mr. Henderson, whose offense was unrelated to firearms; the Court noted in footnote one that doctrines such as “unclean hands” could justify denying such requests. This is particularly significant for those convicted of firearm possession by a convicted felon. Fourth, while the Court indicated a court may order law enforcement to dispose of a felon’s firearms per their instructions, it did not establish a legal entitlement for felons in Henderson’s circumstances to do so. Nevertheless, the opinion implies that permitting defendants to direct the disposition is standard practice and withholding that opportunity could amount to an unlawful taking. See United States v. Brown, 754 F. Supp. 2d 311 (D.N.H. 2010), which suggests that destruction of lawfully owned firearms absent forfeiture or confiscation may raise significant Takings Clause concerns, as the firearms remain valuable personal property, and the government generally may not confiscate or destroy such property without due process and fair compensation. Applicability in State Court. As specified, the Henderson decision pertains to federal judicial authority. North Carolina law diverges from federal law in key respects. Most notably, North Carolina’s felon-in-possession statute (G.S. 14-415.1) prohibits felons from owning, not merely possessing, firearms. Additionally, G.S. 15-11.1 provides judges with several options for disposing of firearms but does not include defendant-directed transfers. Thus, Henderson has limited direct relevance in North Carolina. Nonetheless, similar constitutional considerations could arise in North Carolina cases. There remains uncertainty regarding the permissibility of depriving newly-convicted felons of the right to direct the disposition of lawfully owned firearms prior to conviction—absent forfeiture or confiscation as contraband—even where authorized by statute.
Joe Biden Unjamming a Firearm How to Remove a Live 9mm Round Stuck in a Chamber That Can Still Be Racked but Will Not Eject Gregg Kielma A live round lodged in the chamber poses a significant safety concern and may also render it illegal to transport the firearm home or to a gunsmith. The initial step should be to enhance safety by stripping the pistol—removing the slide and, if feasible, the barrel. This process disables the firing mechanism, thereby mitigating immediate risk. Next, use an aluminum, plastic, wooden, or coated cleaning rod (to protect the barrel's rifling and crown) to gently tap out the cartridge, securing the barrel in a vise if necessary. If manual removal is unsuccessful, professional assistance from a qualified gunsmith is recommended. Upon removal of the round, conduct a thorough inspection of the cartridge, its rim, the extractor, and the chamber to determine the origin of the malfunction. Should the issue involve the extractor or chamber, replace the defective parts promptly. If the problem lies with the rim or the round itself, examine other cartridges from the same batch to ensure no recurring defects are present.
Mistakes People Make When Carrying a Handgun Gregg Kielma Carrying a handgun is a significant responsibility that requires preparation, safety, and sound judgment. Many people make serious mistakes with firearms, which can lead to legal trouble or accidents. A handgun is a tool—not a guarantee of safety—and must be handled carefully. Here are ten common errors people make when carrying a handgun and advice on how to avoid them. 1. Poor Trigger Discipline The most fundamental firearms safety rule is to keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot. Poor trigger discipline can quickly lead to accidental discharges, especially during drawing or re-holstering. To prevent this, practice keeping your finger along the frame until you're aiming, making it an automatic habit. 2. Carrying Without a Proper Holster Carrying a gun in your waistband or pocket without a holster is risky—the trigger remains exposed, and the firearm can shift or snag, potentially causing accidental discharge. A proper holster secures the gun, covers the trigger, and ensures safe, consistent draws, much like a seat belt does for driving safety. 3. Not Checking Your Gun Before Carrying Many people carry a firearm without checking it first. Failing to ensure it’s loaded and maintained can lead to malfunctions in emergencies. Always inspect the chamber, magazine, and overall condition before carrying, and make regular cleaning part of your routine for safety. 4. Carrying in an Inaccessible Position Your handgun is only useful if you can access it quickly. Carrying at the small of the back, deep in a waistband, or strapped to an ankle might seem comfortable or discreet, but when seconds count, those positions can slow you down. Imagine needing your firearm and fumbling to reach it. By the time you manage to draw, the situation could already be out of your hands. Accessibility should always be the top priority. Whether you prefer inside-the-waistband, outside-the-waistband, or appendix carry, choose a position that lets you draw smoothly and naturally. 5. Leaving Your Gun Unsecured Responsibility with firearms extends beyond carrying them. Leaving guns unsecured in vehicles or around the house can lead to theft or accidents. When not in use, always store firearms in a locked holster, lockbox, or safe—quick-access safes offer both security and convenience. If you’re not controlling your gun, keep it locked. 6. Failure to Regularly Train Owning and carrying a firearm does not automatically result in proficiency. Developing skills requires ongoing training, beyond occasional target practice. Effective preparation includes practicing holster draws, stress reloading, and shooting while moving. Without proper training, individuals may not respond efficiently during emergencies. Regular range sessions, instructional classes, and scenario drills are important components for building necessary muscle memory and readiness. 7. Improper Concealment Concealed carry is about keeping your handgun hidden. Printing or accidental exposure can make you vulnerable or break laws. Choose loose shirts, secure belts, and good holster placement to prevent detection—no one should know you're armed unless you choose to reveal it. 8. Thinking You’re Always Safe Because You Carry Many carriers mistakenly think having a gun makes them safe, but it's only a last-resort tool. Staying alert and making smart choices are your true defenses; relying solely on a handgun breeds complacency and risk. 9. Carrying With the Safety On (When It’s Not Necessary) Safeties have a purpose, but many carriers misuse them. Carrying with the safety always engaged can slow your reaction in emergencies. Instead of abandoning safety, get to know your firearm. Some pistols are built to carry safely without manual safeties; others require training to quickly disengage the safety during your draw. Avoid delays that could cost you valuable seconds. 10. Not Understanding Your Firearm’s Safety Features Handgun safeties—thumb, grip, trigger—operate differently, and many users don't fully understand their function. This knowledge gap can be dangerous; unfamiliarity may prevent effective use in stressful situations. Before carrying, learn your firearm thoroughly with dry fire practice, manual review, and hands-on experience.
Firearm Safety: 4 Key Golden Rules Gregg Kielma Safety should always come first when handling firearms, whether at a shooting range or elsewhere. The four main rules of firearm safety reinforce responsible use and secure storage, and everyone is accountable for following them. Supervising beginners and emphasizing safety—especially with children and those unfamiliar with firearms—is essential. 1. Always Keep Firearm Pointed in a Safe direction Always keep your firearm pointed in a safe direction, especially when loading or unloading. A safe direction is one where no one can be hurt, even if the bullet ricochets or passes through barriers. Never aim at anything you don't intend to shoot, whether the weapon is loaded or unloaded. Stay aware of the muzzle's direction at all times, as you are solely responsible for safe handling. 2. Treat All Guns as Though They are Loaded By treating every firearm as if it is loaded, a habit of safety is developed. Firearms should be loaded only when you are in the field or on the target range or shooting area, ready to shoot. Whenever you handle a firearm, or hand it to someone, always open the action immediately, and visually check the chamber, receiver and magazine to be certain they do not contain any ammunition. Always keep actions open when not in use. Never assume a gun is unloaded — check for yourself! This is considered a mark of an experienced gun handler! 3. Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger until You are Ready to Shoot Keep your finger off the trigger until you're ready to shoot, including during loading or unloading. Never pull the trigger if the safety is engaged or partially engaged, as the firearm may discharge unexpectedly when the safety is released. 4. Always Be Sure of Your Target and What’s Beyond It Only shoot when you are certain of your target and what lies beyond it. Remember, bullets and shotgun rounds can travel significant distances—over a mile for many firearms—posing risks beyond your aim. Always consider where a missed or ricocheting bullet may go. Practice these safety measures and make firearm safety your responsibility.
“Constitutional Carry” — Americans In 29 States Can Now Carry Guns Everywhere Without Permits. Here’s What You Need To Know. Gregg Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms Gregg Kielma says, what is Constitutional Carry? Is your state a permittless carry state, constitutional carry state? How old do you have to be to own a firearm in your state? Is open carry allowed? How many guns per 1000 people own one? The states are in alphabetical order. Find your state and see whether it’s a permittless (constitutional carry state). Lastly Kielma recommends, if it is permittless and you own a firearm and carry it with you, please take a class and know your rights when carrying a firearm. It’s cheap insurance and could keep you out of major, MAJOR TROUBLE! Call me and sign up for a class today. (classes are on demand and the cost is very inexpensive). Ignorance of the law is not an excuse. Constitutional Carry, also known as permitless or unrestricted carry, allows individuals to legally carry a handgun, openly or concealed, without needing a permit. This typically does not apply to long guns. Every state in the U.S. permits the carrying of concealed handguns, but each has its own specific regulations and restrictions governing the practice. The laws regarding the issuance of permits to carry concealed weapons fall into three categories: These categories define the level of regulation around carrying concealed weapons across different states. In the United States, the rules around constitutional carry—meaning the right to carry a handgun in public without a permit—vary by state, with each state’s legislature setting its own laws on the matter. Some states require a permit for carrying handguns publicly, while others do not. Here’s what you need to know about each state. In alphabetical order. Alabama – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 18 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 38.7 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Alaska – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 21 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 38.5 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Arizona – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 21 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 35.6 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Swing State Arkansas – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 44.3 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican California – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Prohibited • Registered Gun Rate: 10.4 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Democrat Colorado – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 25.7 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Democrat Connecticut – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Permit Required • Registered Gun Rate: 20.8 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Democrat Delaware – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 6.1 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Democrat Florida – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 21 and over • Open Carry Laws: Prohibited • Registered Gun Rate: 23.8 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Georgia – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 21 and over or 18 for military • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 28.2 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Swing State Hawaii – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Permit Required • Registered Gun Rate: 6.4 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Democrat Idaho – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 18 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 40.2 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Illinois – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Prohibited • Registered Gun Rate: 11.4 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Democrat Indiana – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 18 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 23.1 guns per 100 Iowa – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 21 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 17 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Kansas – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 21 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 23.8 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Kentucky – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 21 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 24.1 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Louisiana – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 18 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 32.9 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Maine – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 21 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 15.6 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Democrat Maryland – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Permit Required • Registered Gun Rate: 22.1 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Democrat Massachusetts – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Permit Required • Registered Gun Rate: 6.5 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Democrat Michigan – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 10.9 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Swing State Minnesota – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Permit Required • Registered Gun Rate: 22.7 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Swing State Mississippi – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 18 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 27.4 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Missouri – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 19 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 18.4 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Montana – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 18 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 33.2 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Nebraska – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 21 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 22 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Nevada – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 37.9 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Swing State New Hampshire – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 18 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 52.1 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Democrat New Jersey – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Prohibited • Registered Gun Rate: 1.1 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Democrat New Mexico – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 58.1 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Democrat New York – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Prohibited • Registered Gun Rate: 4.6 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Democrat North Carolina – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 21.1 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Swing State North Dakota – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 18 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 40 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Ohio – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 21 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 17.7 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Swing State Oklahoma – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 21 and over or in the military • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 25.9 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Oregon – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 23 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Democrat Pennsylvania – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 26.9 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Swing State Rhode Island – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Permit Required • Registered Gun Rate: 4.5 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Democrat South Carolina – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 18 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 23 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican South Dakota – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 18 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 72.2 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Tennessee – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 21 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 21.7 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Texas – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 21 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 34.1 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Utah – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 21 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 3.4 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Vermont – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 18 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 14.6 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Democrat Virginia – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 49 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Democrat Washington – Constitutional Carry = No • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 1.2 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Democrat West Virginia – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 21 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 92.8 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican Wisconsin – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 18 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 16.3 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Swing State Wyoming – Constitutional Carry = Yes • Permitless Carry Age: 21 and over • Open Carry Laws: Allowed • Registered Gun Rate: 245.8 guns per 1000 people • Red or Blue State: Republican
Avoid These Dangerous Ammo Mistakes at the Gun Counter Gregg Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms Gregg Kielma is an FFL, Firearms Instructor, First aid Fundamentals Instructor and Gunsmith in Florida. Says, Mr. Kielma, I get asked this question quite often, which ammo is best for the range? Can I use range ammo for defense? What’s the best ammo for my firearm? What’s the cost vs reliability? Can I shoot .38 special in a .357? Can I shoot .223 in a .556 and vice versa? Will my firearm shoot my ammo when I need it most? What ammo is considered cheap? I get asked some of these questions daily. Let’s take a look below and dispel some the rumors. As always remember to treat every firearm as it’s loaded. Keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to pull it and always keep safety at the top of any list when handling a firearm. As always, call me for advice and I'll give you the best information I have on any ammo you may be considering purchasing. And remember I have most rounds available in stock and for sale. If you’ve ever stood at a gun counter staring at boxes of ammo with numbers, acronyms, and names that sound like fighter jets, you’re not alone. Ammo can be incredibly confusing for beginners and even some experienced shooters. But getting it wrong isn’t just embarrassing – it can be dangerous. This guide breaks down the basics of ammo, from components and calibers to bullet types and special-purpose rounds. If you’re new to firearms or just want to sharpen your knowledge, this could help you avoid mistakes that lead to jams, misfires, or worse. What’s Actually Inside a Round of Ammunition? One of the biggest misunderstandings about ammo is calling the whole thing a “bullet.” That’s like calling a car’s tires the entire vehicle. A round of modern ammo has four main parts: the case, primer, powder, and bullet. The case holds everything together – typically brass, but it can also be steel or aluminum. Brass is preferred for its durability and reusability, especially among reloaders. The primer sits at the base of the case and contains a shock-sensitive compound. When struck by the firing pin, it creates a spark that ignites the powder inside. The powder then combusts rapidly, building pressure that launches the bullet, yes, the actual projectile, out of the barrel. Rimfire vs. Centerfire: Don’t Confuse Them Ammo comes in two ignition types: rimfire and centerfire. Rimfire rounds (like .22 LR) have the primer built into the rim of the case, while centerfire rounds have a primer in the center. Rimfire is usually used in smaller calibers and is not reloadable. Centerfire is the standard for most handguns and rifle ammo. Mixing the two up won’t usually lead to catastrophic failure, but it will guarantee your firearm won’t fire correctly and might even get damaged. Caliber Confusion Can Get You Hurt Here’s where many shooters go wrong: caliber sounds straightforward – it’s the diameter of the bullet. But that’s only part of the story. For example, .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO both use bullets that are roughly .224 inches in diameter, but 5.56 NATO operates at higher pressure. You can safely shoot .223 in a rifle chambered for 5.56, but not always the other way around. A similar issue exists with .308 Winchester and 7.62×51 NATO. They’re nearly identical, but small differences in chamber specs and pressure mean they’re not completely interchangeable. Another common mistake is thinking .357 Magnum and .38 Special are vastly different. They use the same bullet diameter, but the .357 Magnum has a longer case and significantly more pressure. You can shoot .38 Special in a .357, but never the reverse. Don’t Be Fooled by Naming Conventions Ammo names are often leftovers from military designations, historical references, or outright marketing gimmicks. Some rounds are named for the year they were adopted, like .30-06, which entered service in 1906. Others include case length in the name, like 7.62×39, commonly used in AK-pattern rifles. And then you have something like .300 Blackout, which sounds dramatic but is simply built for subsonic and suppressed shooting in AR-15s. These names don’t always make sense, but assuming two cartridges are compatible because they sound similar or look alike is risky. Always check your firearm’s barrel or frame markings and match your ammo exactly. The Bullet Type Matters More Than You Think Not all bullets are created equal. Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) bullets are the most common and cheapest to shoot. They have a lead core fully encased in copper and are ideal for target shooting. But they over-penetrate. That means they can pass through your target and hit something behind it. Great for the range. Terrible for self-defense. Jacketed Hollow Points (JHP) are designed for self-defense. They expand on impact, causing more tissue damage and reducing the chance of over-penetration. If you’re serious about protecting yourself or your home, this is the ammo type you want in your magazine – not FMJ. Hunting Loads Need Precision, Too If you’re a hunter, Soft Point (SP) bullets are a smart middle ground. They have an exposed lead tip that expands upon impact, but more slowly than a hollow point. This creates a deeper wound channel while still transferring a lot of energy into the target. They’re perfect for medium to large game, like deer or boar, where deep penetration and controlled expansion matter more than quick fragmentation. Frangible ammo is another unique option. These bullets are made from compressed metal powders and break apart on impact. They’re excellent for training, especially at indoor ranges or close-quarters scenarios where ricochet is a risk. Just don’t take them into the woods – they’re not built for deep penetration or stopping power. Specialty Rounds Aren’t Toys Some ammo is made for very specific tasks. Ballistic tip rounds combine the aerodynamic shape of FMJs with the expansion of hollow points. These are popular with long-range hunters who need accuracy and stopping power. +P rounds are loaded to higher pressure for increased velocity. They offer more stopping power but generate more recoil, and not every gun is rated to handle them. Subsonic rounds are designed to fly below the speed of sound (about 1,100 feet per second), which makes them ideal for suppressed firearms. They reduce noise significantly when paired with a suppressor. Tracer rounds light up in flight so you can see where they’re going, but they’re usually reserved for military and training, not civilian use. Armor-piercing rounds are another story. They’re built to punch through steel and ceramic and are heavily restricted or banned in many areas. Handle with caution, if at all. Grain Weight Isn’t Just a Number on the Box Every box of ammo lists a grain weight, like “115 grain” or “147 grain.” This isn’t about how much powder is inside – it’s the weight of the bullet itself. One grain equals 1/7000th of a pound. Heavier bullets hit harder and penetrate more deeply. Lighter bullets travel faster but may be more affected by wind and lose energy quicker. For example, a 180-grain bullet in .308 will penetrate better and maintain momentum longer than a 150-grain bullet. But that heavier load also creates more recoil and barrel wear. So what’s better? It depends on what you’re shooting and why. Long-range shooters often prefer heavier bullets with higher ballistic coefficients, while casual range shooters may prefer lighter loads for reduced recoil. Bullet Shape Impacts Flight and Accuracy The shape of a bullet change everything. Spitzer bullets, with their pointed tips, slice through air efficiently and fly straight. These are used in rifle rounds where long-distance accuracy is crucial. Flat-nose bullets are more common in handguns and are great for close range, but they lose velocity faster and don’t fly as flat. Boat tail bullets have a tapered base and maintain velocity better over long distances. If you’re shooting past 300 yards, that design becomes a big deal. Then there’s the trusty hollow point, which, because of the cavity in its nose, isn’t the most aerodynamic, but it’s devastating on impact. Ballistic Coefficient: The Science Behind the Shot A bullet’s ballistic coefficient (BC) is a number that tells you how well it resists air drag. A higher BC means a bullet cuts through wind better and keeps its speed longer. Shooters who compete at long distances, or snipers in the field, choose high-BC bullets because they stay flatter and more predictable over hundreds of yards. For regular shooters, BC might not seem important, but if you want to understand why one round drifts off target while another doesn’t, this number matters. Don’t Trust Your Eyes – Always Read the Box Many dangerous ammo mistakes happen because someone thinks two rounds “look the same.” The mere assumption that a cartridge is compatible does not guarantee its safety. Even subtle differences in pressure, length, or shoulder design can cause a jam – or worse, damage to your gun. Always double-check your firearm’s markings and only use ammo that matches exactly. Never guess, and don’t rely on advice from someone who “thinks it should work.” A Few Final Words of Advice Choosing the right ammo doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but it does require attention to detail. Think about what you’re doing: practice, defense, hunting, or competition. Then match the right caliber, bullet type, grain, and purpose. Also, store your ammo in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and temperature swings. And one more thing – don’t be afraid to ask questions. Gun store clerks and experienced shooters can be great resources, but you’ve got to know enough to separate good advice from bad guesses. Take your time, stay curious, and above all, never stop learning. A little knowledge goes a long way toward keeping you safe – and keeping your gear running right.
