The Bowhunter Podcast, in partnership with Lancaster Archery Supply and the Archery Trade Association, features Bowhunter TV co-host Danny Farris recounting his 25-year journey to draw a Colorado bighorn sheep tag and his successful December 2025 hunt that resulted in harvesting a trophy-class ram from 25 yards away.
Celerant Technology announced a strategic integration with Armslist.com enabling FFL dealers to list inventory directly from their point-of-sale system. The integration automates inventory syncing and order management, allowing dealers to reach Armslist's network of local buyers without manual data entry.
Tim Dillon has been appointed CEO of BERSA USA, bringing over 40 years of firearms industry experience. Dillon previously held senior leadership roles at Christensen Arms, Noveske Rifleworks, STI International, and Brownells Inc., and is a U.S. Army Veteran with extensive government program support experience.
FastBound announced full availability of NICS Direct, its integrated background check solution now powering daily transactions for FFLs nationwide. The platform eliminates technical barriers by automating server management and certificate renewal while integrating directly with Electronic A&D and 4473 workflows. FastBound's partnership with FFLGuard provides funded legal defense for administrative actions.
WATCHTOWER Defense, led by founder and CEO Jason Colosky, is relocating to a new state-of-the-art facility in Tomball, Texas, providing a 50 percent increase in production space. The veteran-founded firearms manufacturer will optimize operational layouts and embrace 21st-century manufacturing practices to better serve military, law enforcement, and civilian customers.
VKTR Industries relaunches White Label Armory, a retail and e-commerce AR parts manufacturer specializing in barrels, bolt carrier groups, and assembly kits. Led by owner Dave Rybacki and sales manager Bill Vitello with Jones and Co, products are available through Sports South, Kinseys, and Turners Outdoors for commercial and law enforcement markets.
Range USA, the nation's largest indoor gun range and firearm retailer, contributed $25,000 to NSSF's Protect Liberty PAC to support candidates dedicated to preserving Constitutional rights and Second Amendment protections ahead of the November 2026 election.
Brian Hedeen, President of Viridian Weapon Technologies, discussed the company's Weapon-Mounted Camera system on iCrime with Elizabeth Vargas, highlighting how the purpose-built law enforcement tool captured crucial evidence in a Vernon, Texas case that led to successful prosecution.
Orchid announced its Winter ONEderland Promotion running January 10–February 20, 2026, offering FFLs up to $10,000 in software credits. The company introduced Orchid POS Spark, a cloud-based solution for startup and small retail FFLs at $99 monthly, and will exhibit at Camfour Dealer Show, NSSF SHOT Show, NBS Spring Market, and Sports Inc Outdoor Show.
Thomas Thacker has been named Chief Executive Officer of Azimuth Technology, effective January 12, 2026, succeeding co-founder Len Zaiser IV. Thacker, a firearms industry veteran with 30+ years of experience, previously served as Chief Operations Officer and held senior positions at Ammo Inc., Armalite, and FN America.
MarketTime, a leading B2B commerce platform serving over 400 sales agencies and 11,000 manufacturer brands, is hiring a Business Development Representative to drive expansion into new vertical markets. The role involves market research, lead generation, and collaboration with growth and sales teams.
Holosun introduces the ARO-EVO DUAL, a hybrid aiming system combining an open reflex sight with integrated visible and infrared lasers for carbines and compact rifles. The compact optic features a 2 MOA dot and 65 MOA circle-dot reticle, Shake Awake technology, and operates across daylight, low-light, and night-vision environments on a single CR123A battery.
EOTECH released the Vudu 4-12x36 First Focal Plane rifle scope, featuring a compact 7.1" design ideal for tactical users. The scope includes illuminated reticle, .1 MRAD adjustments, and a unique mounting interface compatible with mini-ACOG mounts, with deliveries beginning Q1 2026.
ATN launches its 6th Generation thermal optics platform featuring advanced 12 μm VOx sensors with ≤15 mK NETD sensitivity, AI-enhanced SharpIR® imaging, and five flagship products including ThOR 6 Elite riflescopes, Odin 6 MFT, and Binox 6 binoculars. The lineup ships in Q1 2026 with preorders available through authorized dealers and ATNCorp.com.
Vortex® unveiled the AMG 1-10x24 FFP riflescope, developed to meet elite military standards from British SAS, Royal Marines, and U.S. SOCOM units. The compact optic features class-leading HD optics, toolless turrets, and dual zero capability, designed for short-barreled carbines with rail space for attachments.
SHIELD Sights launched the OMSx Micro Red Dot Sight, combining the translucent roof design of the OMSsc with the wide viewing window of the RMSx for enhanced brightness and faster target acquisition. The optic features aerospace-grade aluminum construction, automatic brightness adjustment, and will debut at SHOT Show 2026 with an MSRP of $489.99.
The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) promoted Dana Wilson to Director of Development and Tanner Lineberry to Associate Director of Marketing. Executive Director Adam Kraut stated these new positions are pivotal for SAF's future growth and ability to advance its strategic litigation program and Second Amendment advocacy.
Walk the Talk America, a nonprofit focused on mental health awareness and suicide prevention, appointed four new board members: J. Hood, Patrick Bertagna, Shawn Kitchell, and Brandon Roper. The appointments bring diverse expertise in nonprofit strategy, technology, public safety, and executive leadership to strengthen the organization's mission.
The No Lowballers podcast Episode 120 features Tom Taylor from CZ-USA discussing Dan Wesson firearms' legacy and future plans. Hosted by Logan Metesh and Allen Forkner, the episode explores the brand's origins following Daniel Baird Wesson II's departure from Smith & Wesson, including details about the Wesson family archives and a possible return to revolver production.
Hook & Barrel Magazine Founder John J. Radzwilla and professional skateboarder Jason Ellis appeared on the MTNTOUGH Podcast with Founder Dustin Diefenderfer to discuss mental health, sobriety, and Ellis's experience filming the Hook & Barrel short film Skate or Die.
Rob Gearing, Founder and CEO of Spartan Precision Equipment, joins host Michael Waddell on The Michael Waddell Podcast to discuss hunting, firearms ownership in the UK, and how mountain climbing influenced his philosophy on designing precision firearms accessories.
Federal Ammunition will launch over 25 new shotshell offerings in 2026, including Rob Roberts Raptor waterfowl loads, All-American competition loads, and Realtree 40th Anniversary Special Edition turkey loads. Products will debut at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas.
Zaffiri Precision, a Salvo Technologies company, unveiled the ECHO and ECHO Elite complete uppers for GLOCK pistols, featuring aggressive styling, sharp serrations, and window cuts for reduced weight. The ECHO Elite includes a threaded barrel, upgraded steel backplate, stainless-steel guide rod, and suppressor-height tritium night sights. Both models will be displayed at SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas.
Heckler & Koch USA announced that popular HK pistol models will be available in 2026 with Vortex Defender series micro red dot sights professionally mounted and bore sighted. The partnership combines HK and Vortex's commitment to reliability, durability, and usability with waterproof, shockproof optics featuring motion activation and multi-reticle functions.
BPI Outdoors/Bergara Rifles introduces the Platinum Stalker, a wood-stocked rifle built on a pepper-colored laminate Monte Carlo stock with stainless Cerakote finish. Featuring caliber offerings from 6.5 Creedmoor to .375 H&H, a TriggerTech Primary trigger, and weighing 6.75 pounds, the rifle starts at $1,899.99.
Galco has released holsters for Taurus USA's new TX9 Full pistol, including the Combat Master belt holster, Classic Lite 2.0 shoulder rig, Switchback hybrid design, and magazine carriers to accommodate the new firearm.
Millennium Treestands announces the DeadLock Carbon Shooting Stick Tripod, engineered with high-strength carbon fiber construction and a multi-platform Vise Head featuring 3-axis leveling and interchangeable Arca, Picatinny, and Saddle/Vise plates for hunters, shooters, and outdoor photographers.
Federal Ammunition announces six new handgun ammunition options for 2026, including three Federal Premium Terminal Ascent hunting rounds, new Power-Shok and Punch Personal Defense loads. The products will debut at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 20–23.
Silent Steel USA, based in Livingston County, MI, has launched the 9mm Streamer Series of suppressors designed exclusively for Pistol Caliber Carbines. The new lineup features three variants with proprietary FLOW-IQ™ technology and is priced from $999.00 to $1,499.00.
Premier Body Armor announced LEOnline, a law enforcement procurement platform enabling agencies to design custom patrol vests, receive instant quotes, conduct remote fittings with a 30-day guarantee, and receive vests in six weeks. The platform streamlines the traditionally slow armor procurement process for chiefs and quartermasters.
Remington Ammunition announces new shotshell and rimfire products for 2026, including Final Strut turkey loads with tungsten pellets, Royal Flush upland loads with copper-plated payloads, and Performance Wheelgun 22 rimfire ammunition. These products will debut at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas.
Premier Body Armor announces a new V-neck collar option for its Everyday Armor T-Shirt 360, complementing the original crew neck. The V-neck maintains the same 360° Level IIIA ballistic protection while offering better concealment under daily clothing, addressing customer requests from law enforcement, executive protection, and security professionals.
Yankee Hill Machine announced the VICTRA-20, a modular sound suppressor engineered for 20-gauge shotguns, with new Turkey and Skeet choke options for the VICTRA-12. Production begins early 2026, with the V-20 featuring a lightweight modular design and intelligent mounting system compatible with Remington, Mossberg, Browning, Winchester, Beretta, and Benelli shotguns.
Mossberg introduces the 590R Chisel and 590RM Chisel pump-action shotguns developed in collaboration with Chisel Machining, featuring folding stock mounts, Flat Dark Earth Cerakote receivers, and enhanced ergonomics for tactical and defensive applications.
German Precision Optics (GPO USA) launched the GPO Carbon Fiber Tripod, an ultra-lightweight tripod weighing 2.62 lbs. with a 33 lb. load capacity. The aerospace-grade carbon composite tripod folds to 13.8 inches and extends to 59.8 inches, featuring a convertible monopod leg and integrated ball head for precision shooting and backpacking at $199.99 MSRP.
EOTECH introduced the OGL-C commercial laser system featuring eye-safe visible and IR lasers with IR illumination. Available in Black or Tan, the compact device mounts on rifle handguards and includes co-aligned lasers, adjustable illuminator, and remote capability at $2,999 MSRP.
CCI Ammunition announces its all-new Hunter Series rimfire ammunition for 2026, designed specifically for small game hunters with flat-nose bullets in standard and subsonic velocities. The products will be displayed at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas and shipped to dealers soon.
Dead Air Silencers announces the CT5P suppressor, the first release in its Dead Air Defense line designed for law enforcement and military applications. The ultralight, compact suppressor features reduced backpressure, flash control, and acoustic performance optimized for 5.56 NATO and 6mm ARC rifles, with MSRPs ranging from $899 to $1099.
MDT announced the expansion of its CRBN Rifle Stock lineup with a new inlet for the Remington 700 Long Action Right-Handed CIP configuration. The ultra-lightweight carbon fiber stock features a magnesium micro-chassis, V-block bedding, and integrated ARCA forend designed for precision long-range hunting.
Blazer by CCI Ammunition announced new 2026 handgun loads including a Clean-Fire Suppressor line with subsonic velocities, plus new Jacketed Hollow Point and Full Metal Jacket offerings. Products will debut at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas.
MDT announced the release of the TIMBR Core Walnut Stock for Savage 110 Short Action rifles, expanding its TIMBR Core lineup. The stock features an aluminum micro V-Block bedding system, laser texturing, and is compatible with multiple rifle platforms including Remington 700 SA, Ruger American SA, and Tikka T3/T3x SA.
Firearms News marks its 80th anniversary with the January 2026 issue, featuring Editor-in-Chief Vincent L. DeNiro's comprehensive review of the MKE AP51 imported by Century Arms and a special retrospective on the publication's legacy. The issue includes articles on historical firearms, industry news, and legal updates from contributors including David M. Fortier, Patrick Sweeney, and Dr. Will Dabbs.
Bleecker Street Publications announced major expansions including Athlon Outdoors 2.0, Open Air Media, Tactical Knives revival, Rotten Gun Reviews, and Athlon Untamed. The company launched Ballistic's Best Hunting Edition and continues partnerships with Walk The Talk America while hosting its reimagined Rendezvous industry event.
Kinetic Development Group announced Dirty Bird Industries, a family-owned firearms retailer founded by brothers Jay and Dustin Pitcher, as a new authorized dealer. The Bakersfield, California-based company expands KDG's dealer network and coincides with the rollout of KDG's Dealer Locator tool.
Silent Steel USA, a premium American suppressor manufacturer, will exhibit at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas at Booth 11849. The company will showcase its expanded Streamer family featuring FLOW-IQ™ Technology and new 9mm and .45ACP models for PCC platforms, along with centerfire suppressors designed for shooters and professional users.
Target Sports USA will reveal its annual custom-built Ford F-250 truck giveaway at SHOT Show 2026 on January 21 at 2:00 PM, Booth #72227, hosted by internet personality RealWorldTactical. The event rewards AMMO+ members with exclusive giveaway opportunities and merchandise.
Meprolight will showcase new products at SHOT Show Booth #20039, including the Mepro CABS backup sights, Mepro CRIS iron sights, green reticle options for pistol optics, MVO variable riflescopes, Mepro M22 PRO, and Mepro MCO PRO. The company will also feature iconic products like the Mepro M21 and Mepro Tru-Dot self-illuminating sights.
Primary Weapons Systems (PWS) will exhibit at the 2026 NSSF SHOT Show in Las Vegas, showcasing its MK2 MOD 2 rifle series, BDE suppressor lineup including a collaborative model with WRMFZY, and unique anodized finishes. Lone Wolf Arms will also display pistol accessories and build kits at Booth #10351.
AGM Global Vision announced it will relocate its booth from Level 1 to Level 2 at the Venetian Expo for SHOT Show 2026, moving to Booth #12860. The relocation reflects AGM's growth in the thermal and night vision market and aims to enhance dealer and distributor experiences.
NSSF will present its first suicide prevention general session at the SHOT Show in Las Vegas on January 22, featuring Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins and a panel including NSSF President Joe Bartozzi, Dr. Emmy Betz, Dr. Chris Barsotti, and Michael Sodini discussing how the firearm community can help reduce suicide deaths.
Radians Outdoors will exhibit at SHOT Show 2026 (January 20–23) at the Venetian Expo, Booth #14353, showcasing eye and ear protection products and retail support programs. The company will introduce Brett Bryan, new Director of Sporting Goods, who will meet with dealers and industry partners throughout the show.
Bond Arms will showcase its full line of compact, American-made firearms at the 2026 NSSF SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 20–23, including limited-edition models and updates on the Lever-Action Repeating Bond project at Booth #72617.
Arsenal, Inc. will showcase the SAM7K-28 short-barreled rifle at SHOT Show 2026, featuring a new precision-machined aluminum buttstock with 1913 Picatinny attachment. The rifle combines Arsenal's proven SAM7K platform in 7.62x39mm with in-house engineered tactical stock, available in four finishes with factory-matched furniture.
BERSA USA announced it will exhibit at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas at booth No. 70805. The company will showcase its legacy firearms lineup and debut new products including additions to the M2XI double-stack 1911 line and striker-fired pistol models.
XS Sights will exhibit at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, showcasing new Lever Handguards for Smith & Wesson and Henry rifles, advanced Fiber Optic Sights, and Optic Plates. The company will display products designed for hunting, shooting, self-defense, law enforcement, and competition use.
Arsenal, Inc. announces exclusive dealer-only programs through MSR Distribution for SHOT Show 2026, offering up to 25% off select firearms and up to $500 in rebate credits for brick-and-mortar retailers. The programs feature Arsenal's premium milled-receiver firearms and Eternity Case line accessories.
SDS Arms will exhibit at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 20-23, at booth #12460. The company will showcase Tisas USA, Tokarev USA, Military Armament Corp, Spandau Arms, and Inglis products, with daily giveaways including customized firearms from 2nd Caliber Coatings, Booligan Shooting Sports, Newnam Performance, and Caliber Custom Coatings.
Samson Manufacturing is hosting a giveaway at SHOT Show 2026 booth #70737, where attendees can find hidden toy soldiers for chances to win limited-edition patches and custom accessories including handguards, foregrips, backup sights, and M-LOK® items.
D&M Holding Company will showcase its ammunition, primer, and propellant manufacturing solutions at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 20-23. The company has announced strategic partnerships with Ukrainian Defense Industry JSC and Saudi Arabian Defense company DEMCO Holding Company to expand international operations.
High Speed Gear Products Group will showcase its largest product lineup at SHOT Show 2026, featuring innovations from BlackPoint Tactical, Comp-Tac Holsters, and Crucial Concealment. New offerings include the GEN 2 Duty TACO lineup, Level III Enhanced Duty Holster, and ArcLock TASER holsters, all developed with input from military and law enforcement professionals.
SLG2, Inc.'s Shoot Like A Girl experience will be onsite at the 2026 SHOT Show Industry Day at the Range on January 19, 2026, in Boulder City, Nevada. The mobile trailer will showcase live-fire demonstrations and hands-on brand experiences featuring certified female instructors guiding participants through archery and firearm safety education.
SHIELD Sights, a leading manufacturer of compact pistol optics based in Crewkerne, England, will exhibit at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas from January 20–23. The company will showcase a new product within its OMS optic line at booth #11056, with CEO James White emphasizing the importance of connecting with U.S. partners and customers.
Holosun will showcase its latest red dots, reflex optics, magnifiers, and laser solutions at the 2026 NSSF SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 20–23. Visitors can experience new product innovations at booth #13420, with Holosun's expert team providing technical guidance for tactical, competitive, and recreational shooting applications.
Meprolight debuts green reticle options for the MPO Pro-F and MPO Pro-S closed emitter pistol optics at SHOT Show. The new variants offer shooters a choice between red or green reticles, with green reticles appearing sharper for those with astigmatism. Both models feature automatic brightness control, 20,000+ hours of battery operation, and compatibility with RMR or RMSc footprints.
TriStar Arms will showcase new products at SHOT Show 2026 in Booth #14645, including the APOC PRO 9mm pistol, KR22 rifle in new finishes, Upland Hunter Thumbhole Stock turkey shotgun, and Viper G2 28-gauge shotgun compatible with 3-inch shells.
Precise Recruiting Solutions announced its attendance at NSSF SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas, January 19–23, 2026. Sean Murphy and Kelly Bowen will represent the firm, leveraging over 30 years of experience recruiting talent in the firearms, ammunition, and outdoor industries.
Otis Technology and Shooter's Choice will exhibit at SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas, January 20-23, at booth #11464. Attendees can learn about premium gun care solutions, take advantage of dealer specials including free chemical displays and dump bins, and enjoy Happy Hour plus podcast recordings featuring industry guests.
Taylor's & Company will exhibit at the 48th annual SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 20-23, 2026, unveiling new USA-made rifles and historical reproductions. Owner & CEO Tammy Loy highlights the company's competitive dealer programs and low buy-ins at booth #10550.
Laser Ammo USA Inc. will exhibit at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas (January 20-23) at booths #14042 and #20012, debuting new SureStrikeMAG platforms for Smith & Wesson M&P and Walther PDP/Canik TP9, plus Smokeless Range® add-ons including Hogan's Alley and Terminal Z.
Mission First Tactical, a Horsham, PA-based manufacturer of USA-made rifle/carbine accessories and holsters, will showcase its latest innovations at the 48th annual SHOT Show in Las Vegas from January 20-23, 2026. The company welcomes new dealers at booth #15042 in the Venetian.
European American Armory Corp. will showcase its latest firearms at SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas, January 20-23, at Booth #11260. New offerings include Girsan's MC 14T California Compliant, Witness2311® CMX, CMXX, and CMXXX models, plus Balikli Firearms' Blue Label Over/Under Shotgun and BLK Bolt-Action Rifle.
NEXTORCH North America will exhibit at the 48th annual SHOT Show, January 20-23, 2026, in Las Vegas at the Venetian Expo Center and Caesars Forum. The company will showcase new state-of-the-art lighting and tactical gear products, recruit dealers with special show pricing, and offer a 30-Day-Free Test & Evaluation Program for law enforcement and military agencies.
Massad Ayoob, on his Facts and Firearms video about “On Target, On Trigger is Wrong,” decrying finger on trigger while a person is “taken at gunpoint.” He makes salient points about postural instability and more – creating a shot recklessly fired.
Is gunpoint with finger on the trigger … wrong? Would it be better with the finger off the trigger? Or is gunpoint the problem?
Is he wrong?
Actually, gunpoint is wrong, as we’ve covered here before (one example is here, another here).
“In the self-defense context,” he notes, “on target, on trigger needs to go.”
Actually, the point is “in the self-defense context, gunpoint needs to go.” If there’s muzzle on meat, we’re in the process of shooting (unless something stops that train). Otherwise, the muzzle is averted in the safest available direction, usually a muzzle-averted (thanks, Dave Spaulding) low ready.
Low ready has acres of advantages – not the least of which is complete vision of the (incipient) crime scene pre-engagement. If shooting’s not needed, so much the better.
When this topic was discussed with someone like me, trained in an earlier century, I noted that gunpoint was UNSAT, a no-go at this station.
“If you don’t have it aimed in, the offender will believe you won’t shoot him.”
Add that attitude to the justifiably famous “Stupid Rules” from John Farnam. It could be the last mistake he ever makes, but it’s his choice, not mine.
A legit low ready is always better than gunpoint – and may be more applicable to self-defense situations than any other ready-to-engage position, unless there are special circumstances. Below, the “covered low ready” is hand in a firing grip on the holstered handgun. Extensive practice to a quick, accurate first hit from these positions pay dividends.
How quickly can you get a hit from guard? Depends on the available target area and distance. It was covered in the linked articles above.
In 2009, Jeff Hall did a piece for The Firearms Instructor, the magazine for the International Association of Law Enforcement Firearms Instructors. In it, he discussed “contact ready,” kind of a compressed high ready with the muzzle leading the user during a search or when confronting a potentially armed suspect.
He mentioned what I always called the “trigger check,” an involuntary flicker of the index finger from register (straight on the frame, hooked on the frame or up in the ejection port) down on to the trigger, as if making sure the trigger is there.
It’s real. I’ve caught myself doing it on a square range and during a force-on-force exercise.
Jeff, a retired Alaska State Trooper and national-class firearms instructor-trainer, noted this: “I encourage trainers to adopt a ready or “guard” position for all challenges (sic) and searches. Depress the muzzle to about 45 degrees, off any part of the suspect. Keep the muzzle off the target until the decision has been made to fire (rule 3); only then, go on target, on trigger, and resolve the problem. It will allow better visibility during searches, allow a full view of suspects’ hands, discourage tunnel vision, and will keep everyone safer. It may take some re-training of officers, but that’s what we do, and we shouldn’t be afraid to tackle this training issue.”
I agree, but I’m not alone.
Marty Hayes (RIP), former cop, instructor and owner of Firearms of Academy of Seattle, and, later, creator of the Armed Citizens’ Legal Defense Network, wrote a piece for our Concealed Carry Special Edition of 2013. He covered common mistakes in self-defense shootings.
“My advice is to avoid drawing the gun unless you absolutely need to do so, avoid pointing the gun at anyone unless you absolutely need to do so, and then call the police to report the criminal activity which caused you to draw the gun.If you cannot articulate criminal activity on the part of the aggressive parties, don’t draw the gun.
“An alternative to drawing the gun at all is simply to take a bladed stance, with gun side away from the potential attacker or attackers, and place your hand on the gun underneath your concealment garment, with a warning to back off.Your resolve to use deadly force if necessary is communicated, but there is no exposure of the gun.”
That’s a covered low ready – having a firing grip on the holstered handgun without removing it from the holster. This is a technique taught by Mas Ayoob (and others) and was a staple of walking up on a night-time car stop, among other police activities.
It’s demonstrably quicker than starting with the gun hand anywhere else.
We’re victims of our own experiences. I’ve personally had issues with gunpoint as a practice. These are the result of having taken potentially dangerous individuals at gunpoint early in my career.
Aside from the problems inherent in “muzzling a no-shoot target,” there are practical concerns. Gunpoint, even aimed in at the groin, blocks much of your view of the situation. Someone starting with hands in pockets (one on a hidden gun) can get a shot fired on you before you can respond from the “groin gunpoint.” Some of the motion is blocked from your view and slower motion is often not responded to as quickly as fast motion.
The biggest problem is that there may be something you can’t see that got between you and the felon.
At the risk of repeating myself, my last operational use of force was during a high-risk car stop on a residential street in town. Our interdiction people stopped the offenders in a prelude to a search warrant execution, at the approach to a T-intersection with the offender’s car pointed at the cross street (blocked at each end by other units) and a field.
I was behind the stack, moved up on the right to take up a position as forward observer (so I could have eyes on the entire right side of the offenders’ vehicle). A large tree in the yard was to my immediate front and I was at low-ready, peering around the tree.
