What could be more important than carrying a firearm? Today, an article was shared from IDPA news sources, written by Sheriff Jim Wilson, a retired law enforcement officer and NRA columnist. In this piece, we are sharing a commentary version of the article for discussion purposes, without considering it as an official reference.
How much does a licensed firearm actually protect you in a self-defense situation? Let’s examine expert opinions and real-world experiences to find out!
The Biggest Misconception in Defense: Firearm = Power
Experienced law enforcement officers, military personnel, competitive shooters, and firearm trainers have come to a common realization: awareness is more critical than the firearm itself in self-defense.
Many people focus excessively on selecting the right handgun size, ammunition type, or holster technology when purchasing a self-defense weapon. While these are important aspects, personal defense encompasses far more than just a firearm and its accessories. To make sound decisions, one must take a step back and view the bigger picture.
Is Having a Firearm at Home Enough?
Is a firearm in your home or workplace sufficient to protect you, your family, and your assets from a threat? Security is not just about owning a gun.
Alternative security measures:
Better lock mechanisms
Motion and presence sensor lighting
Thermal, motion-detecting, and recording security cameras
Audible and physical deterrents
Implementing real-world security scenarios
These measures are designed to prevent a conflict before it even begins.
Handgun Selection and Carry Preferences
Many people prefer compact handguns because they are easier to carry. However, smaller guns often have reduced accuracy, lower stopping power, and limited magazine capacity.
Experienced shooters understand the importance of precise shots at 20-25 meters and vital area hits at 40-45 meters. Thus, they prioritize firearms that enhance accuracy and choose clothing that facilitates proper concealed carry.
The Greatest Self-Defense Skill: Awareness
Experience has shown that the most important "defensive skill" is not the firearm itself, but awareness.
The better you perceive your surroundings and identify threats, the better you can handle a dangerous situation.
Not every attack requires a firearm response.
Pepper spray and self-defense techniques can be highly effective alternatives before resorting to lethal force.
Building Effective Security Habits
To improve awareness:✔ Monitor crime trends in your area (robbery, burglary, assaults, etc.) ✔ Avoid risky areas at night ✔ Conduct ATM transactions and grocery shopping during safer hours ✔ Be mindful of car theft risks (Make sure you are not being followed when parking.)
Conclusion
Awareness enables you to think like an attacker, recognize vulnerabilities, strengthen your defenses, and prepare strategies before an event occurs.
Some firearm owners become overly focused on the technical capabilities of their weapons, forgetting that the most critical aspect of self-defense is recognizing a threat early and making smart decisions.
Scenario-based training, such as IDPA competitions, does not only enhance shooting skills but also improves situational analysis and decision-making under stress.
"True power in defense is awareness."
Author:
Dr. Selçuk Aksak
Shooting Sports Instructor & CoachIDPA CSO, Gunsmith
Burkut Academy
Jim Wilson, "An Official Journal of the NRA" April 10.2023
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