Colt Python: Product Spotlight

The Best Revolver Ever

It’s hard to define what the best revolver is. There are many out there and everyone has different needs. But the revolver that has stood the test of time is the Colt Python. A standout of the Snake series, the Python is a beast of a gun. Chambered in the man-stopping .357 Magnum, the Python has proven time and time again that it can hang with the newer firearms–and even outperform them. Whether you’re looking for a Ruger revolver for sale, Smith and Wesson revolver deals, or you just want the Colt Python, GrabAGun is the only name to trust. We even have all the ammo online that you could need. GrabAGun is the premier online gun store for all your firearm needs. So, when you are ready to pick up a Colt Python for sale, shop GrabAGun today. 

Colt Python original ad

The Legend of Colt Python

In 1955, the firearms industry was completely changed when the Colt Python was introduced. Of all the firearms to come out that year, this was the only one with a radically new design. It was a dramatic change from anything Colt had ever done before, despite the fact that its ancestry included the Army Special, a popular .38-caliber DA that had been in the line since 1908. I digress. 

The Python was, and is, chambered in .357 Magnum. Now, 357 Magnum had already proven itself as a powerful and dependable round. Plus, it’s far more pleasant to shoot than the .44 Magnum from Smith and Wesson which had come out that same year. However, until WWII, the .357 Magnum had only been offered in the Single Action Army, of which only 525 guns were. Fun fact: when the SAA was reintroduced in 1955, it was in .45 Colt and .38 Special but not in .357 Magnum. I thought that was interesting. 

This was Colt’s top-of-the-line model and was originally intended to be a large-frame, .38 Special target revolver. You can see this in the precision adjustable sights, smooth trigger, solid construction, and extra metal. However, since they already had the SAA out, a change was made and it was released in a different caliber. Pythons, you’ll notice, have a distinct appearance due to a full barrel underlug, ventilated rib, and adjustable sights. Another fun fact: Colt initially manufactured Pythons with hollow underlugs but decided to leave them solid so they could work as a stabilizing barrel weight. 

The Python was removed from production in 1999, supposedly retired for good. Colt had other ideas. In 2020, a reimagined version of the old classic was brought back to their lineup and has shown to be a massive success. 

Colt Python for Sale

If it isn’t obvious, the Python is built on Colt’s legendary Snake Gun legacy. This double-action revolver has returned with a stainless steel barrel, stainless steel alloys, and a re-designed rear sight. There is 30% MORE steel beneath the rear adjustable target sight to give you a stronger revolver and a more robust shooting experience. Factor in a recessed target crown, user-interchangeable front sights, and Walnut grip with the iconic Colt medallion, and you’ll never want to put this down. Truly, this was a revolver designed to be used AND shown off. Like the original, it’s chambered in .357 Magnum, but it does also accommodate .38 Special cartridges. You can even find custom gold-plated Colt Pythons on our site! So, what are you waiting for? Pick up your very own Colt Python from GrabAGun today! 

Colt Python for sale
Specs

Caliber: .357 Magnum

Barrel Length: 4.25-inch or 6-inch

Barrel Description: 1:14 LH, 6 Groove

Capacity: 6-Rounds

Frame Material: Stainless Steel

Grips: Walnut Target Stocks

Overall Length: 11.5-inches

Finish: Semi-Bright

GrabAGun and the Colt Python

The Colt Python is perfect for self-defense, varmint hunting, or just to have on hand for emergencies. Don’t wait to add this powerhouse revolver to your collection. Shop everything GrabAGun has available right now, including a Ruger LCR, a Smith and Wesson 686, or even the Colt Anaconda and other revolver deals on our online gun store. For a Colt Python for sale, GrabAGun is the only name to trust. 

–Kellie Krevosky

Guide: Carrying While Jogging

How to Carry While Jogging

Despite the crazy weather this time of year, there is nothing quite as satisfying as completing a run. Runners often find themselves on trails and pathways at odd times of the day with a plethora of interesting cheerleaders along the way—if you know, you know. You also know that there are different, let’s call them threats, on different trails at different times of the day. Naturally, you want to avoid hurting yourself, but you can and may also find yourself stumbling across some creatures you may not want to be around. Skunks? Coyotes? Bears? We’re walking the other way…To avoid catastrophic confrontations, we recommend carrying while jogging to ensure the best experience–and yes, we are talking about a firearm. We’ll talk about why it’s important, what are some alternatives, and what you’ll need in this post. For all your carrying while jogging needs, GrabAGun has you covered. Keep reading to learn more. 

Why You Should Carry on Your Runs

Protection, first and foremost. Most runners take the necessary precautions to prevent injury while running, but many don’t think about the precautions needed to keep themselves situationally safe. I mean, have you ever been chased by a startled armadillo on a run? No? Yeah, no I haven’t either…

No matter what, keeping yourself and others safe should be your top priority. Naturally, we recommend carrying a handgun. Whether it be a 9mm handgun or a micro pistol, a small handgun is better than no handgun, in our opinion. If you are comfortable using one, a firearm will guarantee your own safety from nearby predators like bears, coyotes, or a surprisingly determined raccoon. 

Carrying While Jogging and Other Options

Whether you decide that carrying while jogging is the way to go or not, having a form of protection with you is of the utmost importance. Naturally, we recommend a 9mm handgun or something similar. They are reliable, rugged, and effective in a variety of situations. Plus, the last thing you want is to be startled with no means of protection. (Ever had the misfortune of surprising yourself and an unsuspecting raccoon at the same time? Adorable, yet, frightening) Let’s take a look at some of the safety options you can take with you on your next run. 

taser for carrying while jogging

Tasers

Tasers or stun guns are nice to have but only effective in extremely close quarters. That means someone or something will have to practically be on top of you for either option to be truly effective. What’s more, most people are not adept at using something like this which can lead to unsatisfactory results. 

Personal Alarms

If you’ve taken any self-defense class, then you’ll likely know that one of the first, and best, tools to get yourself out of a situation is to sing. Before you ask, no, you’re not expected to actually sing, but instead, make as much noise as possible. Besides, trying to sing while running or even after a run is near impossible. What will help is a personal alarm because, more often than not, attackers, animals, or other threats will turn away when too much noise draws attention to them. 

pepper spray for carrying while jogging
Evgen_Prozhyrko/Getty Images

Pepper Spray/Mace

One of the most common defense weapons is mace–and for good reason. Outside of a firearm, it’s one of the most effective weapons for stopping a threat. Most cans usually have a decent range allowing users to protect themselves while still keeping a safe distance from whatever is threatening them. Now, many brands make gel formulations that allow for the product to stick around longer, doing more damage while providing ample opportunities for escaping. 

Firearms

And of course, our personal recommendation, the firearm. Why are firearms the best weapon to keep while running? With the right usage, they are effective, reliable, and perhaps, one of the best deterrents. It will take time to become proficient, but once you are there, you’ll have a reliable form of protection any day, anywhere, for just about any purpose. 

Type of Gun for Carrying While Jogging

So, the question on everyone’s mind: What’s the best handgun for jogging while running? Well, it comes down to a number of factors, but the main things you’ll want to look for is something:

  • Lightweight
  • Easy to conceal
  • Reliable
  • Durable
  • Functional

While there are several handguns for sale that meet those criteria, here are a few of our personal recommendations:

9mm handgun for carrying while jogging

Smith & Wesson CSX CSX 9mm 3.1” Barrel 12-Rounds

Benefits:
  • Micro compact firearm
  • Metal frame
  • Metal white dot sights
  • Glare reducing slide serrations
  • Ambidextrous manual thumb safety
  • Enhanced grip texture
  • 2 magazines; 10-round and 12-round capacities

Glock 43X 9mm 3.41” Barrel 10-Rounds Two Magazines

Benefits:
  • Compact, Slimline frame
  • Built-in beaver tail and subcompact slim slide
  • Versatile grip
  • Reversible magazine catch
  • Match-grade GLOCK Marksman barrel (GMB)
  • 1 magazine; 10-round capacity
9mm handgun for carrying while jogging

Sig Sauer P365 Handgun 9mm 3.1” Barrel 10-Rounds

Benefits:
  • Stainless steel frame and slide
  • Compact size
  • Rated for P ammunition
  • X-Ray3 day/night sights
  • 2 magazines; 1 flush and 1 extended magazine, 10-round capacity

Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus 9mm 3.1” Barrel 10-Rounds Optics Ready with Thumb Safety

Benefits: 
  • Polymer frame
  • Flat face trigger
  • Enhanced grip texture
  • Optimal 18-degree grip angle for a natural point of aim
  • Armornite durable corrosion-resistant finish
  • 2 magazines; 10-round capacity

At the end of the day, you just need something that you are comfortable handling. Spend time at the range for target practice, but don’t stop there. As a runner, you’ll want to make sure you are capable of firing a weapon while moving. Find a tactical range that will allow you to practice moving while shooting so you can truly get a feel for the action. For the best 9mm handgun for sale, GrabAGun is the only place to shop. 

Type of Holster

Not all holsters are created equal and carrying while jogging can seem challenging. During the cooler months, it’s probably not that hard, but in the summer? Try finding an easy way to conceal a weapon on your ankle with running shorts. It’s basically impossible. So how do you effectively carry, and conceal, your firearm for a run? Here are a few options. 

belly band holster for carrying while jogging

Belly Bands

If versatility is the game, belly holsters are the name. The major benefit to this type of concealed carry is that you can, usually, get away with carrying several types of handguns and magazines fairly inconspicuously, even while running. With the right shirt, virtually no one will know that you are carrying it. The most important thing to remember is to practice drawing and replacing your weapon for the best experience. 

Ankle Holster

Sometimes you just have to forgo concealed carrying for the sake of convenience. For carrying while jogging, ankle holsters are one of the more obvious answers. Not only will it take weight off of your hip line (reducing any chance of pantsing yourself!). However, any “concealability” goes out the window when you’re wearing running shorts. What you lose in stealth you make up for in accessibility. This is an option that you may need to try out a few times before deciding. 

chest holster for carrying while jogging

Chest Packs

Arguably one of the most effective carrying options, period. If you feel comfortable/capable of running with one, chest packs are the best way to go. You get rapid, easy access, take the weight off your hip, plus you look really cool while wearing one. What’s more, you never have to take your eyes off the target while removing anything from the chest pack. 

Practical Running Tips

Be aware of your surroundings

Seems simple enough, but when you’re running it’s very easy to slip into a groove. You’re running your usual trail, only focused on putting one foot in front of the other, and you lose your spatial awareness. If you have to or choose to run alone, stick to well-lighted paths, areas with consistent foot or vehicle traffic (please don’t run in the road, but next to it), and places with good cell reception. 

Buddy System

Piggybacking off the previous point, if you don’t the ability to change up your running locations, find someone to run with you. A friend, partner, spouse, or even a four-legged furry friend! The idea of “strength in numbers” isn’t just for giggles. When there are more people, making more noise, you’re less likely to have a chance encounter with something or someone that could harm you.  

Sweat Ain’t Sweet

If you run, then you know that no matter what time of the year it is, you’re more than likely going to sweat. All that ammonia, sweat, and dirt can not only make your running gear smell…ripe, but they can also wreak havoc on your firearm. Any external bluing will be ruined and internal steel components can be compromised. Most holsters designed specifically for runners help to keep the firearm away from the body, and sweat, but you should still be cleaning your gun regularly. 

Practice Makes Proficiency

You’ll never be perfect with every single firearm, but you can be proficient with the one you choose to run with. Practice as often as you can not just firing your weapon, but drawing it from the holster and replacing it. Learn the basics of cleaning and maintaining your weapon for continuous and reliable use. This will guarantee your constant safety, no matter what. 

GrabAGun and Carrying While Jogging

At the end of the day, your safety and protection are the most important thing. If carrying while jogging is not an option in your state, there are countless other ways to protect yourself, as we’ve mentioned above. For those that are looking for more holsters or handguns for sale, GrabAGun is the only name to rely on. We have all your carrying while jogging needs available and at unbeatable prices. Come get what you need from GrabAGun today! 

–Kellie Krevosky

Appendix Carry/AIWB: Pros and Cons

appendix carry holster

While appendix carry is by no means a new trend, it certainly is en vogue at the moment. Those recently getting into concealed carry and firearms are choosing appendix carry, often referred to as AIWB, over the more traditional strong side carrying. Because of its surging popularity, we thought we’d cover what this carry style is, the pros, the cons, and what you need to know going forward. 

What is Appendix Carry?

This style of firearm carry is rather self-explanatory, getting its name from the placement of your holstered firearm. A 9mm handgun or another pistol will sit just in front of your hip inside the waistband, right about where your appendix would be—hence the name. It is also known by the acronym AIWB, which stands for appendix inside-the-waistband. 

Appendix Carry Pros

This style of carrying has become increasingly popular in recent years with the most recent generation of firearms carriers. For concealed carry purposes, this seems like the ideal. Firearms are much easier to conceal, accessibility is a breeze, and this form of carrying works well for both men and women. 

Easy Concealment

First and foremost, this is hands down one of the best places for concealing a firearm. Appendix carry holsters are designed to be as low-profile as possible. Whether you have a compact handgun or something larger, not a single person would know you are carrying it. 

Ideal for Women

This style of carrying is great for women for several reasons, primarily because ladies can wear just about anything, barring skin-tight clothing. Because of how low-profile the holsters are, appendix carry is simply easier to work with than strong-side, especially for women. There is no spillage or accidental exposure. 

Accessibility Like None Other

Accessing your firearm from the 12 o’clock position is often more natural than from the 3 or 4 o’clock position. Instead of having to reach around your side and deal with clearing your clothing, an appendix carry pistol is right there to remove. Faster out of the holster means faster target acquisition. 

Bigger Potential

This primarily applies to women, but men can also benefit from it as well. With an appendix carry, you can essentially carry any firearm you want. Because the firearm is tucked away inside your pants, there is virtually no limit to the size of concealed carry handgun you could choose. 

Take a look at GrabAGun’s selection of inside-the-waistband holsters

appendix carry

Appendix Carry Cons

Like anything, there are downsides to something good. While appendix carry has many positives, it still has negatives that won’t make it great for everyone. It can be harder to conceal, uncomfortable, and even dangerous when used incorrectly. 

Discomfort

The main complaint against this style of carrying is the discomfort experienced while sitting. As you may have suspected, when you sit or bend over your firearm and holster will ultimately dig into your stomach or thigh. For men, this is usually incredibly uncomfortable. 

Negligent Discharge

Negligent discharge is what happens when a firearm goes off when someone is attempting to remove or replace it from the holster. This can result in a bullet graze along the thigh or groin area, something no one wants to experience. 

Quality Holsters Needed

For a good appendix carrying experience, you will need a quality inside-the-waistband holster. Most are made from Kydex, a reliable and durable material, while some are made from leather. Though leather is far more comfortable, it’s less likely to maintain its shape. This means re-holstering your weapon each time can be harder and could even result in the negligent discharge mentioned above. On the other hand, Kydex will maintain its shape but is not flexible in the slightest. This means carriers may experience more discomfort doing simple things like sitting or bending over. 

Inside-the-Waistband Only

No matter what, an appendix carry holster will exclusively be an inside-the-waistband mount. Unlike strong-side carrying, which can be either/or, AIWB holsters will always be tucked away. For some, this means changing their clothing, belt, and other aspects of their wardrobe. 

Browse GrabAGun’s entire collection of holsters here

appendix carry

How to Choose What’s Right for You

As you can see, appendix carry has its pluses and minuses. While this is “on-trend” in the firearms community, it’s not necessarily right for everyone. How do you know if this is the right everyday holster for you? Practice! With a completely empty pistol, take the time to train drawing and replacing your firearm to get a feel for the best angle and grip for you. Wear the holster with various types of clothing as well to get a better feel for what is most comfortable and, more importantly, what will and will not give away your firearm. 

No matter what, appendix carry will remain a popular and reliable form of everyday carry. GrabAGun has a wide range of AIWB holsters in a variety of colors and materials to pick from. If you are looking for an affordable concealed carry holster, we are the best place to stock up! 

—Kellie Krevosky

Concealed Carry in the Summer

Man with appendix concealed carry holster

Though it’s August, temperatures are still high and unlikely to dip anytime soon. This means you’ll need lightweight clothing as well as a lighter-weight firearm. Making the switch from a full-frame pistol to something smaller can seem strange. Many think that a compact firearm won’t be as dependable or capable of performing as you need it to. The reduced capacity and frame size can feel counterintuitive, but there are several benefits to carrying a small handgun. For example, concealed carry pistols are smaller and less bulky making them easier to conceal with less chance of visibility. 

Despite the heat, you shouldn’t feel like you have to carry something unreliable or worse—go without. GrabAGun offers a wide range of micro-pistols that are perfect for concealed carry during these hot summer months. Here are a few at varying price points that we know and trust to take with us anywhere. 

The Best Small Handguns for Concealed Carry

Sig P365

The Sig P365 is a great option for everyday carry during the summer. This award-winning 9mm handgun is a game-changing, high-capacity micro-compact pistol. With it, you get even more capacity while still maintaining concealability and capability. It is one of the most coveted small handguns in the industry. Several of the highly sought-after features include a patented modified double-stack magazine—capable of a 10, 12, or 15 round capacity. Additional characteristics include an ergonomic design, a crisp trigger pull, and nearly zero snagging with a completely smooth frame.

Why you’ll love it

Designed with Sig Sauer’s signature reliable polymer frame, the Sig P365 is thin, comfortable, and trusted for everyday carry. As the name suggests, it’s ready for anything and everything, 365 days a year. It features the same striker-fired, clean trigger pull you’d expect from a full-sized Sig. This lightweight, easy to conceal, small handgun is chambered in 9mm and even rated for +P ammunition. XRAY3 Day/Night sights, a 10-round flush magazine, as well as a 10-round extended magazine are included. The Sig Sauer P365 is one of the best handguns for daily concealed carry.

See more from Sig Sauer

man with a concealed carry firearm

Springfield Hellcat

Another popular option for everyday carry is the Springfield Hellcat—the result of years of precision development, engineering, and intensive collaborations with top engineers, shooters, and self-defense experts. This is the world’s highest capacity micro-compact 9mm handgun. Coming in at barely an inch thick, with a weight of 18.3-ounces empty, the Springfield Hellcat is a force to be reckoned with. Standard features include a hammer-forged barrel, top slide serrations for accurate racking in a hurry, Gen2 trigger, and a reversible magazine release. Springfield also has an OSP model that allows for sight configurations that won’t hamper your ability for concealed carry.

Why you’ll love it

Specifically designed for everyday carry, this small handgun comes to you with Adaptive Grip Texture, high visibility sights, and the highest capacity magazine on the market. It’s lightweight but still performs with trusted Springfield Armory technology. This best-in-class firearm is not just great for the summer, but it’s also perfect for every single day of the year. You can even choose the OSP model to truly customize your optics. No matter what you do, the Springfield Hellcat is low-profile, reliable, and probably the best handgun for beginners and experienced shooters alike.  

See more from Springfield

Taurus GX4

If you are looking for the best handgun for women, this is it. The Taurus GX4 is the company’s first micro-compact 9mm handgun and it’s already earning a positive reputation. Every inch of this firearm has been meticulously crafted for EDC readiness and reliability. Featuring full-sized capacity in a slim, 1-inch frame, the Taurus GX4 is designed to outclass and outperform everything. It also features a flat-face, serrated trigger for better comfort and control, a signature recoil pad, and a reversible magazine release. Everything you’d expect from a Taurus now comes in a compact, lightweight model. 

Why you’ll love it

As a small handgun, the Taurus GX4 still manages to pack a punch thanks to the full-sized 9mm capacity. Even though it’s just around an inch thick, with a 3.06-inch barrel, this firearm is powerfully accurate. The flat-face trigger allows for exact finger placement, resulting in more consistent shot patterns. Not only that, the Recoil Management Pad (RMP) helps to reduce the amount of stress felt in your hands. The fact that it’s also one of the most affordable concealed carry pistols on the market helps too. 

See more from Taurus

Affordable, 9mm Handguns Perfect for Concealed Carry

As you can see, there are a number of options to choose from for concealed carry pistols. What’s more, you don’t have to sacrifice quality or dependability when downsizing to a small handgun. It doesn’t matter what you are looking for, though, GrabAGun has what you need at unbeatable prices. While you’re picking up a compact firearm, don’t forget ammo and a high-quality, lightweight holster as well! You’d be surprised at the difference it can make in your experience with a concealed carry in the summer.

—Kellie Krevosky

Five Concealed Carry Best Practices

Owning a firearm sets you apart from non-owners. Your responsibilities increase. When you decide to obtain your concealed carry permit, you assume a new set of duties that are beyond that of simply being a gun owner. Getting your permit is a decision that requires plenty of consideration. Some questions you might want to ask yourself before you start down that path are:

  • Will I continue to educate myself of best practices with my weapon and the laws of my state and country?
  • Do I plan to carry every day?
  • Am I dedicated enough to practice with my firearm and maintain a high level of aptitude with it?
  • Am I aware of the financial obligation to supply my firearm with everything it needs to function properly and safely?
  • Do I fully understand what it means to concealed carry, and am I willing to use extreme force in the face of imminent threat?

There are numerous factors to take into account before you make a decision to concealed carry. If you feel that you are ready for the responsibility, here are some best practices to adhere to once you acquire your permit.

Prepare Yourself Mentally

Every time you make the decision to carry your weapon, you must be 100% aware of the consequences of your actions. Your firearm is a tool capable of deadly force, but it is your mind and mental state that dictates how that tool is implemented. When you immerse yourself in an environment with other people, you need to exercise extreme, judicious discipline. Going out of your way to avoid confrontation is crucial to limiting any sort of conflicts that might arise while you concealed carry.

Your weapon should only be used in dire circumstances after all other avenues have been explored to de-escalate the situation. Many situations can be resolved without the use of your firearm. Remember that you carry it to protect yourself and your family. Keep calm and remain levelheaded. A good rule of thumb is you should only use your weapon if your assailant has the ability to physically harm you, has the opportunity to do so, and is putting your or someone else’s life in danger.

Be a Student of Gun Laws

So much of owning a weapon is having the proper mindset and knowledge to use it. The only way to attain this is through education. Each state has a set of laws that differs from the rest, and they can often take federal law a step further. Use of deadly force, where you can and cannot concealed carry, what to do after a shooting, and several other factors change depending on where you live in the U.S. Find a reputable source and educate yourself on national laws, state laws, and any local requirements that might be enforced in your area. Make sure that if you are traveling, you have done your research on where you are going.

Continued Training is Critical

As you continue to inform yourself of the laws surrounding firearms and as you keep practicing the correct mental state, you must continue honing your abilities with your weapon. Long before you decide to conceal carry – or even own a weapon – you should seek professional classes to begin your training with how to properly operate a firearm. It should cover the fundamentals of gun use, safety, and different techniques in weapons operation.

Once you have mastered the basics, you can move on to more advanced concealed carry techniques. Proper concealed carry holster use, an overview of concealed carry laws, and how to access and fire your weapon from its concealed location should all be outlined in the course. Additionally, it is wise and recommended to take refresher courses periodically. Not only will you stay sharp on your abilities, but you will also stay current on the latest trends of concealed carry and become aware of any new developments in the field.

Once outside of a professional classroom, you need to practice on a regular basis. This includes more than just going to the range and shooting your handgun. Being comfortable with the accessories you use, like a concealed carry belt, must also be regularly checked and practiced. As we put wear on our equipment, their functions can alter. Being aware of these changes is vital to successfully carrying concealed. Some of these points leads to the next practice.

Wear Appropriate Clothing

Concealed carry demands that you be aware of the environment and situation, but it also requires you to play close attention to your attire. From the shirt you wear to the holster and belt you use, all need to be carefully chosen to successfully conceal your firearm and its accessories. No one but you should be able to tell that you are carrying. If you are wearing the wrong clothing, you will be prone to adjust your handgun often, which will draw attention to your firearm. Avoid frequently checking and adjusting your weapon by wearing the right clothing.

Choose to Carry

Once you have made the decision to concealed carry handguns, it is an option that you should exercise all the time. If you choose to only concealed carry some of the time, you will find yourself becoming desensitized to the severity of the situation. Constant vigilance and dedication are a must when you decide to carry concealed. Finally, you will be ready for what the world brings your way. By carrying all the time, you can face the world around you with a mindset you would not have if you were not carrying concealed.

Concealed Carry Handguns at GrabAGun

Get the best concealed carry handguns for sale online from GrabAGun today! Shop handguns for sale, holsters, magazines, and ammo online.

Helpful Tips on Gun Safety, Handling, and Storage

Here at GrabAGun.com, we pride ourselves on being all about guns – and that includes being all about gun safety. Being able to fully enjoy your firearm is only attainable through proper handling, storage, and care of your firearm. Here are some helpful tips to use as a guide for proper gun safety, handling, and storage.

Gun Safety Tips

The Four Major Rules

There are four major rules to follow when you are the primary person using a firearm. The first and primary rule of gun safety is to always treat it as it if is loaded. This means that no matter if it is loaded or not, if the firearm were to miraculously fire, it would not cause harm or damage. You need to constantly be aware of where the firearm is pointed and by extension, understand the safest direction.

Second, always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. Third, keep your finger off the trigger unless you are ready to fire. Many firearms have finger guards to rest your finger on. Utilize this or your trigger finger along the side of the firearm. Fourth, know your target and what is beyond it. An added level of precaution is to always have the safety on until you are ready to fire the firearm.

Become an Expert

Learn as much about how your firearm operates as possible. Know the parts and components, how they function together, and the exact type of ammo that your firearm should use. The more you understand about your firearm, the more likely you will be to catch problems that could arise in its use.

Evaluate Your Firearm

Before you fire your gun, make sure that it is working to the standards you are used to. Check that the mechanisms all seem to be working properly. Routine cleaning and proper storage will help prevent problems from arising and also maintain the gun’s overall upkeep. If you see something suspicious, take your firearm to a specialist before firing.

Properly Store and Handle Your Gun

As I briefly mentioned in the last bullet point, proper storage of your firearm is pivotal to its functionality. Using a range bag or carrying case to transport your firearm to and from where you will be firing it is a major step in gun safety. This extends to how you transport your ammunition and firearm accessories. A satchel can keep all of your other necessities in a safe location as you take it to and from your home. Storing your firearm with a gun sock can also prevent most debris and dust from accumulating inside your firearm.

When your firearms are not in use, they need to be kept in a manner that prohibits any unwanted persons from using them. Cable locks and trigger locks are two of the most common ways to keep your firearm secured. Consider using a gun safe in addition to individually locking your firearms.

Keep Guns Close By

Being able to have your firearm snug against your body with concealed carry holsters such as a paddle holster is a great way to keep others from accessing your firearm. Additionally, a concealed carry purse can keep all of your items safely stored in one location without allowing unwanted people access to them. With your gear close on hand, you will decrease the likelihood of people teaching your equipment without your permission.

Gun Safety at GrabAGun

These are just some of the ways that responsible gun owners should be handling and storing their firearms. Keep you, your family, and others safe by following these tips. Remember, it is always wise to continue to educate yourself on gun safety. Be safe, and enjoy your next time shooting.

Home Defense? What You Need To Know

best-home-defense-weapons

Choosing a Gun for Home Defense

My dad used to say, “if you don’t own a car, you walk and if you don’t have a gun, you run.” So just what is the best home defense weapon? Let’s compare the most common firearms used for home defense.

Home Defense Rifles

A semi-automatic rifle makes an excellent choice for a home defense weapon. They are more accurate, easier to aim than a handgun, and offer greater stopping power.

A .22 caliber rimfire is certainly capable of injuring, but it creates a small wound and a big risk. In some cases, it just angers a wounded intruder and makes him come after you with additional fury. There is also the disadvantage of any long barreled weapon being taken from you by an assailant and used on you. If you have to shoot an intruder, don’t wait until he is within range of grabbing your gun.

On the other hand, centerfire rifles have plenty of stopping power, but be careful not to overdo it. Large caliber centerfire rifles are extremely likely to over penetrate. Stick to rifles that shoot a smaller caliber and high velocity round. These smaller rounds are much less prone to overpenetration and shouldn’t cause unintended damage or injury.

Home Defense Shotguns

Hunting shotguns with extremely long barrels are great for longer range shooting, but can be unwieldy indoors. Short barreled shotguns, on the other hand, can be extremely effective if you understand a few things about using a shotgun at close range. The 12 gauge is the most popular, but not everyone can handle the recoil. The most important thing is to be sure to practice with your self-defense weapon so that you are familiar with how it handles and performs.

Many people discourage the use of a small bore .410 shotguns for home defense simply because of the small number of shot delivered. Though not my primary weapon, my old .410 is one of my “shelf guns” for home defense and I keep it loaded with buckshot. One thing you must know if you plan to use a shotgun for home defense is that it takes distance for spread to occur. You won’t get the spread that you do on the range, and you will have to aim. Avoid the use of slugs for home defense as they have the same risk as a rifle in overpenetration, placing your family members and bystanders at risk.

Buttstock Vs. Pistol Grip Shotguns

People often replace the buttstock of a shotgun with pistol grips to make it easier to use in tight spaces. This action is going to diminish aim, stability and control. I suggest you try a buttstock versus a pistol grip shotgun before you buy. You should also be aware that some pistol grips are created for a specific type of firearm and will work poorly on a shotgun.

There are gun owners who love their pistol grip shotgun, and appear to overall recommend a lot of practice to gain experience in overcoming the loss of control, aim and stability. If it works for them it may work for you but I prefer the greater control and accuracy of a buttstock. Pachmayr manufactures a specialty grip called the Vindicator that is created for shotguns.

Pump Action Shotgun

If you are considering the purchase of a shotgun for home defense the best option is to choose a pump action shotgun with a 20 inch barrel. Some people prefer the 18 inch, but the former will provide you with a greater variety to choose from. Shotguns are one of the best choices for a home defense weapon and they are available from brands like Remington and Mossberg.

Home Defense Handguns

Handguns from the 9mm caliber and up are effective in stopping assailants inside or outside the home. When loaded with the appropriate ammunition for inside home use, they are less likely to put your loved ones and others at risk. They are also less likely to cause damage to the home or to be taken from you in a struggle with an intruder.

A handgun is an fantastic weapon for home defense and major brands like Glock, Smith and Wesson and Sig Sauer are all quality firearms. But a handgun, or any gun, is useless if you can’t use it or, even worse, if you use it incorrectly. You don’t want to fire a weapon that you have no accuracy for in your home. Any bullet, even a .22 caliber, will go through today’s walls and potentially endanger your family. Make sure to practice with your handgun or any firearm until the correct and accurate skills become second nature.

Home Defense Weapons at GrabAGun

GrabAGun is your online source for guns for sale. We offer one of the internet’s largest varieties of firearms from pistols for sale to rifles and shotguns for sale, as well as the venerable AK-47 for sale and the versatile and popular AR-15 for sale. We also offer a large variety of gun parts & accessories for your upgrades and repairs. Check out our site and, if you don’t find what you’re looking for, give us a call. We will find any available firearm and provide the GrabAGun discount.

Buying The Right Gun Safes

Gun Safes For sale

Gun Safes for Sale

Gun owners have a responsibility to ensure their guns don’t end up in the wrong hands. The factors you will want to consider when selecting gun safes are protection, safety, security, and size.

Those factors are your checklist, and you will need to determine which of these you need in a safe. If you want all the factors in a safe, you look for gun safes that provide all of these factors. If you only want to keep your guns out of the hands of thieves, you will need a safe of heavy gauge steel to deter thieves. You can forego water and fire prevention. If the safety of children is your only concern, the more economical 12 gauge safes will suffice. When you have decided the features you require, the choices can be narrowed down to safes for sale that fill your need.

Factors to Look for in Gun Safes

The features that aid in preventing theft are heavy gauge steel, weight of the safe, the ability to attach the safe to a floor, and the locking mechanism.

Heavy Gauge Steel Safe

Heavy gauge steel is an important deterrent for thieves. No safe is completely burglar proof. The goal is to slow thieves up as most burglars want to run in, grab what they can, and be out within a short time. With steel, the smaller the gauge is, the thicker the steel will be. Inexpensive safes most commonly use 12 gauge steel which is easily entered with common tools.

Choose the best gauge your budget allows and, if it is within your budget, choose at least a 10 or 7 gauge steel. A 10 gauge steel gun safe can weigh 1,000 lbs. or more. Due to the weight of a gun safe, you may prefer to have multiple safes, rather than one large safe. Multiple anchored safes do have the advantage of reducing weight for movement, and decrease the chances of a thief getting all of your guns.

Safe Attachment

Attaching a safe to the floor is another safeguard to deter thieves. This will require holes to be drilled into the floor, and you will have to know how many holes, what size holes and the exact distance between them. Before you buy ensure the owner’s manual provides this information.

Use large washers on the inside of the safe around bolts to prevent thieves from simply ripping the bolts out of the bottom of a 12 gauge safe. Another tip is to attach a 4 × 4 post across the bottom of floor joists and attach the bolts through the 4 × 4 and secure with a nuts. Most homes sub-floors are made of ½ or ¾ inch plywood, and the anchors for a safe will easily pull out of this material. The stronger the anchor, the more time it will take them to succeed.

The Door & Lock

The door and lock are the point at which most burglars will attempt to gain access. Pins are used to lock down the door to the safe. One inch pins are standard in most safes and are generally adequate. Larger and more numerous pins are even better, but will increase the cost of the safe. Higher grade safes will also have pins at the top, bottom, and corners as well.

The type of lock is another factor to consider in securing a safe. Your standard lock will suffice for keeping children out of it. For thieves you need the best lock possible. Electronic locks are popular for convenient and fast access; they are also the root of most problems with gun safes. The most common concern is with batteries, which must be routinely replaced.

Mechanical dial locks last and last, but it can take time to open, a negative if you need fast access for home defense. Key locks are the easiest to use but are no competition for a skilled burglar. Biometric gun safes locks are the most secure, but also require battery power and routine replacement.

Fireproof

If you choose a fireproof gun safe, fire rating will be a critical factor to consider. The majority of today’s fire resistant safes meet basic fire protection standards, with the minimum being able to withstand a 1200º F temperature for up to 30 minutes. This means the temperature inside the safe shouldn’t exceed about 275 degrees during those 30 minutes. At higher cost, a premium safe might be rated at 1200° F for up to 100 minutes. In determining the fire rating of a safe you should consider the response time of your local or attending fire department.

Gun Safes For Sale at GrabAGun

GrabAGun sells gun safes for the safe securement and protection of your guns. GrabAGun is your premier source for gun sales. New stock arrives daily so check back with us often. Give our friendly customer service agents a call today for assistance. GrabAGun has gun safes for sale and provides a larger selection of guns for sale.

Preparing a Homemade Survival Kit

homemade survival bag

Making a Homemade Survival Kit

Homemade survival kits are easy to make and cheap to put together. Almost everyone has their own list and all have some common items. I use the following when going deep into the smoky mountains where it is easy for a non-native to get lost. There is always the potential to get lost, even when I mark my trail. I also carry my kit when entering deep woods in my native state on extended trips.

My survival kit is not one of the ‘coffee can’ kits many people put together. Mine fits into a small military bag with a shoulder strap that I carry on my shoulder. This kit will also fit into a small backpack. You can adjust it to suit your needs. GrabAGun has many survival kit supplies and already put together survival kits to help you in any situation.

The Basic Survival Kit

  • Matches in a water proof container, I double up by placing mine in a small ziplock
  • Space blanket and 2 disposable ponchos (the latter can double up as a water proof cover over a brush shelter)
  • String (about 15 ft.) wrapped around my mini Maglite or a stick. Useful for brush shelter when willow bark isn’t available and many other uses
  • Toilet paper
  • Pocket size fishing kit with fishing line
  • Pocket size sewing kit
  • Nylon braided rope-25 ft. loops through attachments on the exterior of my bag
  • Fire starting blocks (I carry one for an emergency, but make my own fire starting bundles from the wild)
  • A Good Folding Knife
  • Duct tape wrapped around a tongue depressor. Great for many things including a shoe whose sole comes loose
  • Magnesium fire starter for back up
  • A quality multi-tool that will clip to a belt
  • Compact mess kit that can hold small items

First Aid & Medical

  • Scissors (a neat pair of folding mini-scissors to be specific)
  • Tweezers
  • Band-Aids, 2 × 2, and 4 × 4 sterile gauze
  • A good sticky medical tape (this can double up in a pinch to hold the gapping edges of a wound together. NEVER wrap it all the way around a limb if you do not have appropriate medical training)
  • Triple antibiotic ointment
  • Aspirin and Tylenol. If you are losing blood aspirin can reduce coagulation factors resulting in increased bleeding. In the case of a bleeding wound use Tylenol
  • A small travel size bottle of peroxide. If you have ever been injured 3 days back into the woods with a contaminated wound you will appreciate having this
  • Bring along any medications that you take, including an epi-pen if you are prone to allergic reactions

Food & Nourishment

  • Instant soup packs, ramen noodles, and small packs of nuts and raisins
  • Individual servings of instant coffee, tea, and/or single serving tang
  • A straw or surgical tubing for extracting water
  • Hard candy to help with dry mouth

Fire-Starting

Good places to look for dry tinder in a wet forest are against tree trunks and rock overhangs. Pine wood, hemlock, and cedar burn easier. Use it for kindling if you can find it. Pine especially gets a fire hot and going quick. Collect ‘twigs’ to feed a new fire, and then graduate to larger and larger wood until the fire is going. Paper is great to start the burn so keep an eye for paper on the ground. Use a bit of the toilet paper if necessary. Keep an eye for paper on the ground. This may indicate a road is nearby, a hunting camp, or depending upon how long it has been on the ground, the presence of other people in the woods. Even if it is wet, it can dry in a pocket and be used for fire starting.

Survival Kits at GrabAGun

Whether you decide to make a homeade survival kit or just buy one, make sure that you adjust it to suit your needs. On camping trips and when hunting, a Ranger vest, for example, can provide a lot of handy pockets and can be used as a supplement to a survival kit. GrabAGun offers a variety of survival kits, easy food packs, and guns for sale in popular brands such as Ruger, Mossberg, and Smith and Wesson that will make any survival situation that much easier.

Choosing a Fireproof Gun Safe

Consider looking at all the options, do some research and know what you need. No need making an investment that is too far-reaching. Look at many different brands of safes before you buy. Many offer unique options that you may want. Also, investigate the safe’s specifications and ask about its safeguards against tampering. Lastly, invest in a fireproof gun safe.

As you consider the right fireproof gun safe, you need to look at the fireproof rating it carries. When you look at the fireproof ratings, you will see a time limit and a temperature listed. Most fire resistant safes meet basic fire protection standards, with the minimum being able to withstand a 1200⁰F temperature for up to 30 minutes. This means the temperature inside the safe shouldn’t exceed about 275⁰F during those 30 minutes. Your guns should come out okay. A more expensive, premium safe might be rated at 1200⁰F for up to 100 minutes. The response time of your local fire department would be a consideration. If you live close to the station and they can respond within a few minutes, a 100 minute rating might be more than you need. Also, make sure the safe you purchase has a fire seal. This will appear as a flat strip of material around the perimeter of the door, which expands to seal the door when it gets hot.

Get the best gun vaults and safes for sale online from GrabAGun.