Top Gun Maverick a real review

Top Gun Maverick A Real Review

 

Top Gun Maverick was first released in theaters months ago. Now it is available for purchase online and for DVD sales. Since this is a video site about guns and not movies, I felt reluctant to provide a review. Top Gun Videos is what the title says and a site all about gun videos from top online creators. However, this movie was so good (especially compared to the mess Hollywood seems to want to make now) that I had to give you a quick review and a look at the trailer.

Top Gun Maverick is a great movie overall. There are a few things I dislike about it, but many more I do like than those few detractors.

First, let me share that I love good nostalgia movies. I enjoy when the script, directing, and acting honor the past. Top Gun Maverick does a great job with honoring the first movie, and really the timeframe that Top Gun represents. I enjoyed that the Millennium Falcon was smaller in scale in the new Star Wars movies as an example. It worked well because of how most of our childhood memories recall the scale of things. You saw the same scale effects in the recent throwback nostalgic take of the Shinning in Dr. Sleep (2019).

The nostalgia in Top Gun Maverick was better than these fun plays on scale. It honored the characters, actors, and themes from the first film. I really was appreciative that they have a nice scene with Val Kilmer’s character (Iceman). Many viewers will find it hard to believe how Tom Cruise appears. He truly looks young in the movie. It turns out being a very wealthy, eating well, and exercise can help you appear younger.

Maverick has a great cast. Not only did they honor their relationship with some key talent, they also have young actors like Miles Teller that do a great job. The film and its cast do seem patriotic and the movie has that positive feeling. One thing you will find odd is that the enemy in the film has no real world basis. You get great cockpit views, amazing energy in the flight footage, but no sense of the source of evil in the film. I get that we are in a global economy now, and they certainly want to sell the movie overseas. It just is a very odd feature of the film. It is a very conscious decision to try to avoid the attacks and arrows of the wacky mob today.

 

Here is a fast overview of the plot of Top Gun Maverick

After a 30 year career of service in the Military as a Top American Aviator, Pete "Maverick" Mitchell (Tom Cruise) finds himself back at Top Gun School, this time as an instructor. He must train a young group of top pilots for a special mission. This is when he runs into the son of his former Naval Navigator and friend Lt. Nick Bradshaw, aka “Goose.” Miles Teller plays the role of Lt. Bradley Bradshaw call sign: “Rooster,” who is the son of Goose and issues between the two men threaten to impact the mission.

I do not want to dive much deeper into the plot because I want you to enjoy the ride. This movie is much like an amusement ride. It has a steady pace and even a faster, more consistent pace than the first film. I think if it was not for the strange concessions in the plot I would have enjoyed this movie more thanks to that fast pace.

If you have not seen the original somehow, then watch that first. You could even make it a double feature movie night with the family. There are some adult themes, but the overall feeling of the movie is one that provides a moral theme. Even if that is, the good guys can still win, and that we as a Nation can still be great.

I would give this movie a must see designation and a 4.8 out of 5 stars. Making it clearly the best movie available for rent or purchase at this time. You can also pick up a copy of both as a box set or a special download deal.

AK 47 Video

This new AK 47 video is amazing!

AK 47 Video by Matt Rittman

This video of the AK 47 is stunning and presents a 3D breakdown of this legendary weapon. The AK-47, officially known as the Avtomat Kalashnikova, is the amazing gas powered assault rifle chambered in the 7.69X33MM cartridge.

This legendary weapon has been used by militaries around the world because of its dependability. Users have reported the weapons firing in the worst conditions imaginable. They fire with debris and dirt or sand in the gun, and even fire wet.

In the name AK 47, the number "47" refers to the year the rifle was finished. The design of the AK was started in 1945 and completed in 1947. Since those early years, the weapon design has seen some changes, but the core simplicity remains.

Purchase your own AK 47 or get ammo for it at Top Gun Supply visit today to find an AK 47 near you, or purchase and have one shipped legally with an FFL transfer.

AK 47

AK-47 Rifles

The first AK-47 rifles were entered into service in 1947. Now, you can own a version of this semi-auto firearm that is frequently found in military arsenals around the world. The influences of Yugoslavian, Romanian, Polish, Russian and Hungarian factories are found in our AK-47 rifle collection. These impressive firearms have been made available from U.S. importers, such as Century Arms, through Top Gun Supply. The Saiga rifle is a joint effort between the legendary Izhmash Factory in Russia and Arsenal, a U.S. company. Live the AK-47 legend with the Saiga SGL10, featuring premium components and top-notch workmanship. The Arsenal company remanufactures the SGL rifles with compliant parts and adds custom modifications that deliver more for your money. The Saigas bear the Russian stamped receivers. These AK-47s are laser sighted and test fired for reliability before they leave the factory. Our comprehensive long gun category also features industry leaders like Stag Arms and Rock River Arms.

Legendary AK-47 Assault Rifles for Sale

A time-honored rifle tradition meets the latest technologies in our selection of AK-47 assault rifles for sale. Authentic assault rifle designs are combined with advanced materials and CNC machining to create modern versions of AK-47 assault rifles. We have models available in 7.62 × 39mm and 5.45 × 39.5mm calibers. A stand-out design from Poland makes its entrance as an updated sporter rifle in the popular 5.45 × 39.5mm caliber. This eye-catching AK-47 assault rifle for sale includes a stamped steel receiver and side folding wire stock. Many of our assault rifles come with magazines and extra accessories, such as cases or cleaning kits. You can fire a gas-operated, magazine-fed AK-47 rifle from your shoulder that has been built for rugged dependability.

Since 1947 the AK47 has been the standard weapon of enemies and allies of America. It is arguably the most used riffle platform in the world. At this time over 106 nations use the AK47 as their national riffle. There are at least 100 million AK47 in use based on a number of variations around the world.

The AK 47 stand for Avtomat Kalashnikova -- also known simply as the Kalashnikov. The design is all about simplicity and ease of use and maintenance. There were many guns at the time whose design influenced the design for the AK47 one of these was Germany's Sturmgewehr-44. The stG-44 was intended to lay down heavy fire with smaller rounds, and the AK47 followed with that same goal in mind.

The AK 47 was designed to fire in almost any condition. It was also designed to clear jams easily, but because of its simplistic design it rarely jams. Many have fired rounds with sand, mud, or dirt in the weapon and it still has not jammed.

A fully automatic AK 47 has the ability to fire at up to a 600 rounds per minute rate of fire. This makes the AK one of the deadliest weapons ever designed. The rate of fire, ease of use, and design make it a powerful weapon of choice. Today’s AKs are actually AKMs were the design has been updated with modern components for even more ease of use.

Content from TopGunSupply.com with full permission of use.

If you are trying to find the Romanian ak 47, cherry ak-47, or a true modified ak-47 you are in luck Top Gun Supply can take care of your needs. They have a great deal of manufacturers who love to work with this legendary design. This legend has literally changed the battlefield for modern warfare, and leveled that same battle at home for home defense.

Why is ak-47 so popular?

Design

 

The AK-47 was designed to be a simple, reliable fully automatic rifle that could be manufactured quickly and cheaply, using mass production methods that were state of the art in the Soviet Union during the late 1940s.

The AK-47 uses a long stroke gas system that is generally associated with great reliability in adverse conditions.

The large gas piston, generous clearances between moving parts, and tapered cartridge case design allow the gun to endure large amounts of foreign matter and fouling without failing to cycle.

 

Cartridge

 

Wound Profiles of Russian small-arms ammunition compiled by Dr.

Martin Fackler on behalf of the U.S. military The AK fires the 7.62×39mm cartridge with a muzzle velocity of 715 m/s (2,350 ft/s).

The cartridge weight is 16.3 g (0.6 oz), the projectile weight is 7.9 g (122 gr).

The original Soviet M43 bullets are 123 grain boat-tail bullets with a copper-plated steel jacket, a large steel core, and some lead between the core and the jacket. The AK has excellent penetration when shooting through heavy foliage, walls or a common vehicle's metal body and into an opponent attempting to use these things as cover. The 7.62×39mm M43 projectile does not generally fragment when striking an opponent and has an unusual tendency to remain intact even after making contact with bone. The 7.62×39mm round produces significant wounding in cases where the bullet tumbles (yaws) in tissue, but produces relatively minor wounds in cases where the bullet exits before beginning to yaw.

In the absence of yaw, the M43 round can pencil through tissue with relatively little injury.

Most, if not all, of the 7.62×39mm ammunition found today is of the upgraded M67 variety. This variety deleted the steel insert, shifting the center of gravity rearward, and allowing the projectile to destabilize (or yaw) at about 3.3 in (8.4 cm), nearly 6.7 in (17 cm) earlier in tissue than the M43 round.

This change also reduces penetration in ballistic gelatin to ~25 in (64 cm) for the newer M67 round versus ~29 in (74 cm) for the older M43 round.

However, the wounding potential of M67 is mostly limited to the small permanent wound channel the bullet itself makes, especially when the bullet yaws.

 

Dependability

 

The 3rd reason these guns are so beloved is their dependability. Due to the basic design elements and manufacturing, these have proved to be the most dependable 7.62MM design on the market. Even after modern updates the core design does not fail to deliver. The reason so many governments choose the design for their military is because they have proven to fire in most conditions.

How to legally buy a gun online

How to legally buy a gun online

 

Did you know that you can legally purchase a gun online, much like you would in a local store?

Well, it is true and there are specific laws and guidelines that must be followed.

When you purchase a gun from a FFL Federal Firearms Licensed dealer online, you need to locate a local FFL to receive your new gun you purchased. The gun is then shipped to the local store and they complete the process of transferring the gun to you legally on your end.

First, the basic laws are the same in the United States. You must be 18 or older to purchase a long gun, and 21 or older to purchase a handgun. You also have to meet both Federal and State legal requirements. Here is an example of a list of questions that the State of Virginia provides on its website.

Firearms Purchase Eligibility Test

 

A person who answers "yes" to any of the below questions may be prohibited from purchasing or possessing a firearm pursuant to state and/or federal law.

Are you under indictment for a felony offense?

Are you the subject of an active misdemeanor or felony arrest warrant from any state?

Have you ever been convicted, as an adult, in any court of a felony offense?

If you are 28 years old or younger, have you ever been adjudicated delinquent as a juvenile 14 years of age or older at the time of offense of a delinquent act, which would be a felony if committed by an adult?

Were you adjudicated as a juvenile 14 years of age or older at the time of the offense of murder in violation of § 18.2-31 or 18.2-32, kidnapping in violation of § 18.2-47, robbery by the threat or presentation of firearms in violation of § 18.2-58, or rape in violation of § 18.2-61? (If adjudicated as a delinquent for these offenses, you must answer yes. You are ineligible regardless of your current age and prohibited for life unless allowed by restoration of rights by the Governor of Virginia and order of the circuit court in the jurisdiction in which you reside.)

Have you ever been convicted in any court of a misdemeanor crime punishable by more than 2 years, even if the maximum punishment was not received?

Is there an outstanding protective or restraining order against you from any court that involves your spouse, a former spouse, an individual with whom you share a child in common, or someone you cohabited with as an intimate partner?

Is there an outstanding protective or restraining order against you from any court that alleges or involves child abuse or neglect, stalking, sexual battery, abuse of a family or household member, or acts of violence?

Is there an outstanding emergency substantial risk order or substantial risk order against you issued by any tribunal of another state, the United States or any of its territories, possessions, or commonwealths or the District of Columbia?

Are you an unlawful user of, or addicted to, marijuana, or any depressant, stimulant, or narcotic drug, or any controlled substance? The Federal Gun Control Act defines an addicted person, or unlawful user, as a person who has a conviction for use or possession of a controlled substance within the past year or persons found through a drug test to use a controlled substance unlawfully, provided that the test was administered within the past year.

Have you ever been acquitted by reason of insanity?

Have you ever been adjudicated, legally incompetent or mentally incapacitated, or adjudicated an incapacitated person?

Have you ever been involuntarily admitted to a facility or involuntarily ordered to outpatient mental health treatment?

Have you ever been the subject of a temporary detention order and subsequently agreed to voluntarily admission for mental health treatment?

Have you been discharged from the Armed Forces under dishonorable discharge?

Are you an alien illegally in the United States?

Are you a nonimmigrant alien? A nonimmigrant alien is prohibited from receiving a firearm unless he or she falls within an exception to the nonimmigrant alien prohibition (e.g., hunting license/permit; waiver).

Are you a person who, having been a citizen of the United States, has renounced your citizenship?

Have you ever been convicted of the misdemeanor crime of domestic violence? This includes all misdemeanors that involve the use, threat of, or attempted use of physical force (e.g., simple assault, assault and battery) if the offense is committed by one of the following parties: a current or former spouse, parent, or guardian of the victim, by a person with whom the victim shares a child in common, by a person who is cohabiting with or has cohabited with the victim as a spouse, parent or guardian, or by a person similarly situated to a spouse, parent or guardian of the victim.

Have you purchased a handgun within the past 30 days? This will include private transactions.

Are you a person who, within a 36-month period, within the last 5 years, has been convicted under Virginia law of 2 misdemeanor offenses for Possession of Controlled Substance or Possession of Marijuana? (Handgun Purchases Only)

Have you been convicted as an adult or adjudicated as a juvenile of an offense that occurred on or after July 1, 2021 of a misdemeanor assault & battery on a family or household member as defined in § 18.2-308.1:8 or any substantially similar law of any other jurisdiction?

Are you currently enrolled in the Virginia Voluntary Do Not Sell Firearms List? Any person enrolled in the Voluntary Do Not Sell Firearms List pursuant to Chapter 12 (§ 52-50) of Title 52 is prohibited from purchasing, possessing, or transporting a firearm in Virginia.

If you are denied the right to purchase a firearm because you have been convicted of a felony as described in VA Code § 18.2-308.2, you may still be eligible to purchase a firearm if your rights have been restored under both state and federal law. Information pertaining to the restoration of firearm rights is available at the Firearms Restoration page.

Source: https://www.vsp.virginia.gov/Firearms_PurchaseEligibility.shtm

That is a comprehensive list for sure, but you will find most states have very similar guidance.

When you purchase from a FFL dealer, you are required to go through a background check. This process has been in place since 1968 and was put in place after John Kennedy was shot. This act prohibited certain people from buying guns, such as fugitives, people convicted of crimes that were punished by a prison sentence of a year or more, substance abusers, and people convicted of domestic violence crimes.

The 1968 act also required retailers and individuals selling firearms to obtain a Federal Firearms License (FFL) and meet certain requirements.

Next, the Brady Bill or Law was passed in 1993 after the attempted attack on Ronald Reagan that injured Jim Brady. The Brady Law requires all FFLs to run background checks on people purchasing guns, through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).

When combined, those two laws impact everyone from a Federal level who wants to purchase a gun. As the buyer you complete a form 4473 which allows the FFL dealer to run the background check via the NCIS system. This check goes through the FBI’s system and can take as little as 30 seconds to run.

The FBI shares as public information the amount of background checks run each day through this system. You can check the system here via this link.

As I write this yesterday was the end of November 2021 and on the 30th, they ran 93,338 background checks in the nation. It seems like a giant number of checks, but on many days of the year the numbers are much higher. The gun sales and related background checks seem to go higher every year. In 2002 or 19 years ago, the number on November 30th was 34,026.

The FBI guidance on disqualification for gun purchase is fairly straightforward and looks much like Virginia’s.

Were convicted of a crime that carried a sentence of more than one year, or a misdemeanor that carried a sentence of over two years

Are a fugitive (i.e. there's a felony or misdemeanor warrant for your arrest)

Are an addict

Are diagnosed mentally ill, which can include being involuntarily committed, found not guilty by reason of insanity, or found unfit to stand trial

Reside in the US illegally

Are dishonorably discharged from the military

Had a restraining ordered issued against you (i.e. found guilty of harassing, stalking, or threatening a partner or the child of your partner)

Were convicted of domestic violence (i.e. convicted of using or threatening to use a deadly weapon against a spouse, former spouse, parent, guardian of the victim, etc.)

Have renounced your US citizenship.

Items that they do not mention (likely for good reason) are any watch lists, holds, or other internal factors that might hold, delay, or prevent a gun sale.

Once you start to order your gun from your ideal online gun dealer’s website, a few things need to happen.



First, you need to follow the gun dealer's security steps and start the purchase.

Then you need to select a local FFL dealer that accepts FFL transfers near you. Your online gun dealer can help with this step. Guns can not be shipped to your home. They must be legally transferred to a local FFL dealer near you.

In some cases, online gun dealers may have local stores near you, but often you will have your gun sent to another dealer that is closer. Either process is fine, it is about the convenience for you as a customer, and the safety of the process.

Most FFL dealers charge a standard fee for this service. This is not covered by most sellers at your cost. This charge is paid by you, the buyer, to the local FFL dealer to help you complete your transaction. In some states, there may also be a tax on your firearm according to state and local laws.

Often your FFL dealer online has a network of other FFL dealers across the country that complete these sales all the time. This network of FFL dealers makes it easier to find a local provider. On occasion there is not an in network dealer near you and you should take the extra step of contacting that dealer directly to assure they are willing to complete the sale and accept the transfer. Again, your online FFL dealer may be able to guide you through this part of the process.

Your gun dealer then ships the gun to the local FFL dealer directly. Here is an example of one shipper FedEx and their fun shipping guidance.

Steps for how to ship firearms from FedEx

 

Shippers with a Federal Firearm License A Federal Firearm License (FFL) are required for all dealers and/or individuals who sell, manufacture, import, repair, or handle firearms in any form as a business. Shippers with a valid FFL may ship to other dealers or individuals in compliance with the rules and regulations of The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Nonlicensee shippers Nonlicensees can ship firearms to a FFL business or a FFL holder. When shipping to a FFL holder, the holder will only release the firearm to the nonlicensed recipient identified. The recipient will be required to complete the necessary forms and pass a NICS background check.

A nonlicensee cannot ship directly to another nonlicensee from a FedEx Office or other FedEx associated retail location.

Source: fedex.com

 

When do you need to use an FFL transfer?

Under federal law, an FFL transfer is necessary whenever a firearm is purchased from an FFL or when a firearm is shipped to someone else across state lines.

In addition, some states require that all changes in possession/ownership of firearms be conducted through an FFL and therefore, a transfer is also necessary. However, most states follow the federal rules, which allow a privately owned firearm to be sold or given to another resident of the same state without the need for an FFL transfer.

Source: gununiversity.com

When you want to purchase a gun online, make sure you choose a reliable gun store, and that you and they follow the FFL transfer requirements. You can view a detailed list of gun dealers in Top Gun Supply's network here.

Lady's gun store trip

Lady's gun store trip

Video by Top Gun Videos

A trip to the gun store used to be scary for a lady. This was a territory that men loved, and where they could be men. But since every man (including gun store owners) loves the ladies in their lives, and wants women to be safe, gun stores are making more of an effort than ever before.

Connecting with the female customer means having an intent to really be of service and assistance. Gun store staff are willing to go the extra mile for their female customers. At Top Gun Supply in Ohio, Florida, and online, they show that they care with every customer interaction. It is a big thing to trust your safety to the advice of the good folks at the local gun store. Especially when you walk in and you do not know a pistol from a revolver. It makes sense for everyone to be cautious. Great gun store owners focus on providing the best advice and assistance possible.

When you come in off the street, we treat everyone the same. It does not matter where you come from, your sex, or what you already know about firearms. Instead, great gun store staff focus on the needs of each individual customer. If you are looking for a simple gun for home defense, or something even smaller for concealed carry, we want to help you find the one that is right for you.

Choosing a gun does not have to be hard. It can be as simple as answering a few questions, then asking a few of your own. What makes a difference is the person serving you. Even more important is how those people are trained and managed. A poorly ran gun store can change the focus of well meaning staff. Top Gun Supply is a business that is run by a great owner who cares about his customers. It shows in the way his staff helps their customers.

Guns for Home Defense

Which gun is best for you for home defense?

 

Guns for Home Defense ?

 

Best Home Defense Gun is it Shotgun, Pistol, or a Rifle?
Which is the best firearm to use for home defense or self-defense in the home?

Your final decision will come down to a variety of personal choices.

The best firearms for home defense are those that you can use in your own home. They should be reliable, easy to operate and maintain, accurate at a distance of up to 50 yards or more, have the ability to fire multiple rounds without reloading, and they must not require extensive training time before being used by an untrained person. The following list is based on my personal experience with these weapons as well as what I've read about them from other sources.

Much of the answer should be based on the environment. If you live in an apartment or condo with walls adjoining other homes, and property, that must be considered.

Another major factor for most is their effectiveness with the weapon type.

Then there is security and convenience, which are also important to consider.

Let's look at the three primary categories of choices and some benefits of each of those.

Shotgun

Reasons to consider a shotgun for home defense. Pros of Shotguns
The most popular sub-type of shotgun is a pump-action shotgun. The most common load for home defense is 00 buckshot which is nine.38 caliber balls of lead.
1. Cheap
2. Reliable
3. Ammo can be less intrusive to shared walls and spaces

Cons of Shotguns
1.) Not great at range
2.) You must be able to reload quickly
Pistol or Handgun

Next up are pistols.

These include revolvers, semi-automatics, and automatics.

A revolver has six chambers inside it where each chamber holds only 1 bullet. So when you pull back the hammer, they fire simultaneously.
Semi-auto handguns work similarly but hold more bullets per round.
An automatic pistol fires one shot every time you squeeze the trigger.
Pros of Pistols
1.) Easy to carry around
2.) Can shoot multiple rounds without having to stop and re-load
3.) More accurate than shotguns
4.) Great for close quarter shooting
5.) Easier to conceal
6.) Less expensive
7.) Better chance of hitting your target if used properly
8.) No need to worry about ammo running out
9.) They can be fired from behind cover
10.) Most people have them already
11.) Many types available
12.) Some models are easier to aim than others
13.) A lot less recoil than rifles
14.) Much better range than shotguns
15.) Very effective against large animals like bears
16.) Good choice for women as well
17.) Best choice for children
18.) Can be easily concealed
19.) Can be carried by law enforcement officers
20.) Can be purchased cheaply
21.) Can be bought online

Rifle

Using a rifle for home defense may be the last choice of many. However, they can provide the best option for homeowners that live alone, and do not share walls with neighbors.

A rifle may use a similar size round as some pistols. However, with the stock, sites, and control of fire they can make an armature shooter more accurate, and allow them a higher rate of fire. If confronted by armed home invaders, this may be the advantage a homeowner needs to properly defend their property.

Pros
1. Can shoot multiple rounds without having to stop and re-load
2. They can be fired from behind cover
3. Best range of all 3 types
4. The ammo for most rifles is available
5. Easier for a novice to use with less experience, required
6. More control over accuracy
7. Good choice for women or children with lower powered versions
8. Best chance of repeated center mass shots

Cons
1. Higher cost
2. More political attention to use
3. Bulky
4. Not concealable
5. Harder to store and secure that handguns

Given all the factors if you have space and do not live with shared walls with neighbors rifles like the AR15 may be a great choice. If cost is a factor, then a shotgun is a great choice for all around home defense. When you choose your shotgun loads, think carefully about your property and if rounds penetrating walls are a concern. If so, you may wish to choose a smaller birdshot ammo.

For all around ability to safely store, and even conceal, it is hard to beat a handgun. Since they are easier to travel with, many choose to also use handguns for defense of themselves outside the home as well. Again, what is most important to consider is your lifestyle, location, and personal needs. No gun will do you any good if it is not available to you when you need it.

Make certain you take a gun safety course, obey all firearms laws, and, if needed, obtain a concealed carry permit. You could hurt yourself or someone else if not properly trained, and you could lose your access to a firearm for self-defense by breaking the law by mistake.

 

How to fight inflation with guns and ammo

How to fight inflation with guns and ammo

 

We see the scary signs of inflation all around us these days. As gun owners, collectors, and fans, this means higher costs for new guns, and higher costs for regular ammo resupplies.

 

One thing that can help is to find a trusted supplier for your ammunition. I use my friends at Top Gun Supply for my ammo. They work very hard to find a consistent supply of ammo even during these low supply days. The company owner and managers have established long-term relationships with ammo manufacturers, which have helped the company maintain a supply of ammo for their loyal customers.

 

They also know how to negotiate or large volume purchases, so you don’t have to. This means even while things are crazy out there, Top Gun Supply is able to still keep restocking their supplies. As a result, you and I can get a reliable source for our ammunition. This has been important to me because I shoot both for sport, and to keep accurate on the firing range. My weekly trips would have had to stop had it not been for their hard work.

In February, I had to break out the old 22 to go to the range with since I was almost out of ammo for my other pistols. That was not a good feeling. Since that time, I have been able to keep up with my weekly use thanks to Top Gun Supply. Check out their ammunition in stock online, and when possible, have it shipped to your home or business directly. Soon gas will be $4 a gallon again (already is for my friends in California) and you do not want to be driving all over town trying to find the rounds you need.

Now they do set some limits on most rounds for a single purchase. So regular ordering is an inside key to success. I just keep an eye on their website and what is in stock, then put my order in when I see the next type I need for my supplies.

As we move forward into 2021, and very soon 2022 (it will be here before you know it) we must consider our gun and ammo purchases carefully understanding like everything else prices will rise. For some of us, that means buying something a little ahead of plan, in order to save money. With inflation, saving up is not something that really helps. With the value of the dollar dropping like a stone (fastest drop in 30 years) we are still not seeing interest rates on savings rise.

Inflation is more than a bad memory

 

If any of you is old enough to remember the 1980s, then you recall that interest rates reached their highest point in modern history in 1981 when the annual average was 16.63%. Later we finished that decade out at 10% rates. There was also a time when your bank CD or savings account could earn you 10%. While we might not be going back to those times yet, we are seeing inflation rear its ugly head.

 

There is an economic theory or approach that is called dollar cost averaging. It is thought of as an investment strategy, but it is good to consider when facing inflation on something like ammunition that you buy on a regular basis. Essentially, by purchasing consistently as prices go up and down in a market, you will reach an average price. That average price will be lower than the highs in the market.

Dollar cost averaging (DCA) is an investment strategy that aims to reduce the impact of volatility on large purchases of financial assets, such as equities. Dollar cost averaging is also called the constant dollar plan (in the US), pound-cost averaging (in the UK), and, irrespective of currency, unit cost averaging, incremental trading, or the cost average effect. Source Wikipedia

 

When applying this, just keep in mind that the laws of supply and demand, combined with inflation, will make the price go up over time. So, if you have the need, you may want to regularly purchase to the sellers limit now to save as much as you can in the months and few years to come.

If you log in to Top Gun Supply and check their ammo for sale you might see a limit of say 5 boxes on a certain brand. Well, today might be a good day to load up. If you would have purchased two boxes before you could save 20% or more by buying now. (Inflation is just that crazy now, especially with ammunition.)

Other online sellers and even local gun stores are cashing in. It is sad to see, but just like water after a hurricane, sometimes people take advantage of spikes in pricing and demand. I have seen some sellers quadruple their price on ammunition in the last 6 months. At Top Gun Supply, they have had to increase costs but only based on the actual increase from their manufacturers' pricing. They are taking the high road and not hitting their customers at very high prices.

If you want to fight inflation when it comes to guns and ammunition trust Top Gun Supply as your trusted supplier.

Gun Safety & Your Local Gun Store

Gun Safety & Your Local Gun Store

By Top Gun Videos

 

Gun safety and your local gun store, gun safety is always important. One of the most important things you can do to assure your own gun safety is to partner with the professionals at your local gun store. A great gun store will have some of the most talented and capable staff. Each member has a tremendous amount of gun knowledge and they can help the novice gun owner a great deal.

While gun accidents the end in the death of a gun owner or their loved one are very rare, they still happen. You never want to be in that situation just because you were too excited about your new gun purchase to slow down and take the time to consider proper gun safety.

No new gun buyer should leave a gun store with a gunlock, and a safety plan for their new weapon. We all share the responsibilities of proper gun ownership, safety, and care.

Here are 5 things a great local gun store can help you with.

  1. Proper guidance and firearms selection. When you are purchasing a gun for a specific purpose, like home protection, the experienced staff can guide you in your purchase.
  2. Help you find local firearms training classes, and support. Sometimes finding the proper local training is hard to do. Your gun store should have been in business in the area for many years, and their staff will have some honest recommendations for you.
  3. Connect you with a local gun range. Finding a great place to practice with your gun makes all the difference.
  4. Supply you with gun safety equipment. Gun store carries the best gun locks, and safety tools. Since they are dedicated to their gun owners, a great gun store will have reliable safety equipment on hand for new gun owners. Never leave a store with a new gun without a gun lock and a gun safety plan.
  5. Answer your specific questions. You need someone to fill in the blanks between fiction, simple marketing, and the real world. The staff at a great gun store can provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

 

Remember to have a gun safety plan. Getting a new gun is an amazing feeling. It is part freedom, and part that feeling of a kid on Christmas morning. You are excited to get the gun home, clean it, and get to a range or go shooting.

Just remember to work with the gun store staff on a basic gun safety plan before you leave the store. You should have a gun lock and a plan for where you are going to store your new gun. If you do not have a gun cabinet, maybe a small gun safe is a good choice.

Ask yourself these questions:

 

There are over 300 million Americans now. Each year there are an estimated 430 truly accidental gun deaths, and many more injuries. On a percentage of the population, that number is very low. You just never want that statistic to ever address you or one that you love. So have a plan and be safe. When you are making your plan, it is OK to run that by your gun store team member to see if they have any safety recommendations.

If you live in Ohio or Florida your states have Top Gun Supply retail locations. Others can access the finest gun store in America online at Top Gun Supply.

Ammo Shortages

Ammo Shortages, what is the truth?

The national ammo shortage continues in the USA, and it is for a number of reasons. Just like the toilet paper issue during COVID-19, and even again recently. One of the major factors is good old-fashioned supply and demand.

In 2020 more, there were 16 million background checks for firearm purchases nationwide between January and April, a 31 percent increase from the year before. Later in 2020, as riots happened, the sales only increased. Good people whom may never had considered purchasing a gun were buying them.

A 2020 survey by the National Shooting Sports Foundation, a trade association for gun retailers, ranges and manufacturers that lobbies Congress, said gun shop owners reported 40% of customers were first-time gun buyers from January to April 2020. Again, that data is before another major jump in firearm sales.

Before COVID-19 and the supply chain issues that have impacted virtually everything available for sale, there were already major pressured on ammunition supplies. Major ammunition purchases from the Government had already seen prices increase, and supply drop.

New Gun Owners

The NSSF estimates that 8.4M people bought their first firearm last year. That is 8.4 million people that all want a supply of new ammo for their gun. Most people reported that the reason they purchased their new gun was self-defense. So those people do not just typically want a single box of ammo. Understandably, new gun owners were a supply that they feel comfortable would help them protect their home and family.

In 2020, gun retailers reported a 95 percent increase in firearm sales and a 139 percent increase in ammo sales compared to the same period in 2019, according to survey results published in August by the National Shooting Sports Foundation, or NSSF, a firearm industry trade association. (wkyt.com)

Even hunting license sales were up by nearly 5%. Likely because people wanted to do an outdoor activity more, and some were hunting for additional food stores.

Hunting license sales were up five percent in 2020 over 2019, and a significant portion of that boost was from first-time license buyers. Meanwhile, the firearms industry welcomed more than 8 million new gun owners in 2020. (outdoorlife.com)

Ammo Shortages Likely to Continue

According to the weapons website The Reload , those in the industry expect the shortage to continue for years.

So, it should be reasonable to say that demand itself is way up. Higher than normal. More new gun owners, more overall demand, and people stocking up because of the crazy times.

There are also supply chain issues from COVID-19. Some factories had to close down, or work with reduced staffing. Others are still finding labor hard to find. Right now, in October 2021, over 10.44 million jobs remained open and unfilled. These are jobs in all parts of our economy, and this has caused a breakdown in services, as well as parts of our supply chains.

Even if an ammunition manufacturer is fully staffed (few are) because of demand, they want to hire more labor and can’t find the help. Then these manufacturers also need materials and parts to make their ammunition. The metal, gunpowder, and even the ammo boxes may all be low on supply. While some manufacturers would like to start a 3rd shift and run 24 hours a day to meet demand, they themselves can’t get the supplies they need to make their products.

That is what people talk about when they talk about supply chain issues. Everything that is made or produced is impacted by other parts of a supply chain. Even simple items not as complex as ammunition still need other parts like packaging, and labor to get their goods to market.

Experts say these supply chain issues are likely to last for years to come.

Since the ammunition shortage may continue for some time, we need to think about our needs, and where we purchase our ammunition. These days you can purchase ammo online and have it delivered in many areas.
The ammo supply issues have these reasons, and likely others too many to list.

So what can the consumer do to find the ammunition they need. The best solution is to find an online retailer that has an outstanding reputation and that is, in fact, a licensed firearms dealer. This way you save time, and do not end up driving all over town looking for your desired ammo caliber. You can also find a local retailer whom you trust and go to that single location. We just think online is easier for most people.

Our favorite online seller who has an outstanding customer reputation is Top Gun Supply the owner and staff have worked very hard to keep as much ammunition in stock as possible. They have retail locations in Ohio and Florida, but also sell ammunition, supplies, and guns online. Shopping online for ammunition just makes sense. Driving all over town just hoping to find a box or two makes little sense. Especially, as gas prices continue to soar. Just simply go online and find what you need. Check back often for stock updates as well.

On a recent search myself I was happy to find all the ammunition sizes I wanted in stock with several available from different manufacturers. I found 9MM ammo at prices I thought I would never see again.

For target practice with the kids, I also found 22LR ammo that was at a bargain price. This reminded me of a summer camp where I used to shoot a 22 at targets as part of my daily camp adventures. Imagine finding bricks of rounds for less than $10 these days. Truly wonderful prices.

Thinking rationally about the amount of ammunition you may need can help control the desire to purchase or hoard ammunition. This should help decrease demand as people think more reasonably about their needs.

Read this post in Ballistic Magazine about the amount of ammunition someone should have on hand.

How much ammunition should you keep on hand?

Before answering that question, ask yourself how much ammo you need to protect yourself under the two most likely scenarios. Those scenarios are sheltering in place and relocating to a safer location if staying home becomes untenable. Do you stay put or bug out If sheltering in place, most of us would choose a semi-auto centerfire rifle or a shotgun, along with a centerfire pistol or revolver. Under those circumstances, 300 rounds is a good starting number to have one hand for each primary defensive firearm.

That means every time you practice, you should replace the ammunition used with new fresh ammo; that way you won't be unprepared if there's a sudden increase in demand. If there's more than one household member with a gun, then this would apply to each primary defensive gun used by each person. (ballisticmag.com)

Now that you may have a better understanding of what you may need or like to have on hand, when it comes to ammo get shopping online with a trusted retailer like TopGunSupply.com and get what you need.