Author: Braxton Taylor
We hear you (pun intended)! This year, we are reporting manufacturer’s sound-reduction rating where available. Now, not every manufacturer makes that information publicly available, so you’ll see a fair number of “N/As” where no decibel-reduction numbers were provided, but rest assured that, despite what you might think, the noise-reduction rating is one of the least important factors when choosing a new suppressor (more on that in a future article). All of these cans reduce firearm report significantly enough that your hearing will be protected when you use them in conjunction with ear pro. It’s never been easier to buy a…
One of our readers commented on my “Personal Defense In Rural America” article by saying that, in his area, the defensive choice seemed to be mostly rifles and shotguns, and I would agree that this is quite likely true all across rural America. The handgun is only of value because it is highly portable. Rifles and shotguns provide power and accuracy far beyond the limits of handguns. There was a time in my part of the Southwest when country folks nearly always were armed with lever-action rifles and single-action revolvers. Nowadays, while this rancher might still prefer those tried-and-true firearms,…
A new study quantifies the impact of poaching in the United States— the results show that an eye-popping number of wildlife crimes are not being detected, let alone successfully prosecuted.The research comes from the Boone and Crockett Club, which is both a big game record-keeping group and the oldest wildlife conservation organization in North America. The Boone and Crockett Club invested heavily in its “Poach and Pay” project, which it called “the most comprehensive research project on poaching in this country” in a recent press release.One of the main focuses of the study was developing a statistics-based estimate of the…
I’m always happy to see a premium gunmaker move into a more affordable category. If I can get a rifle from a reputable company for a little less jingle, I’m here for it.That’s the idea behind the new line of Evoke rifles from Christensen Arms. The Utah-based rifle maker has built a reputation for producing high-quality long guns, but most of their current offerings land in the $2,000+ category. With an MSRP of only $898.99, the Evoke is Christensen’s first rifle within reach of the unwashed masses, and it’s been well-reviewed since it hit the market earlier this year.But there…
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) faces the unique challenge of providing comprehensive care to a community that is geographically dispersed, often rural, and dealing with diverse health needs often much more extensive than checkups. Telehealth initially began as a practical solution to access problems, but in 2025 it has evolved into a much broader system. Today, VA telehealth is not just about scheduling a video appointment with a doctor. It is also about building whole-person health services reaching veterans in their homes and giving them tools to improve daily life.A New Era of Virtual CareTelehealth within VA now…
It’s been less than a week since President Donald Trump signed an executive order designating the Department of Defense as the Department of War. And while Congress has blocked debate of the change for now, officials for the Pentagon’s IT agency have seemingly already renamed the networks and infrastructure used for missions worldwide.“When we talk about the Department of War Information Network, it doesn’t exist without industry. It’s nothing more than a nomination of industry products, and we put them together in a meaningful way. We make some minor adjustments and modifications to ensure that we meet the war fighting…
The assassination of Charlie Kirk isn’t just another headline. It is a gut punch to a nation that already seems divided. At only 31, Kirk had become one of the most visible figures on the political right. His murder, carried out yesterday by a sniper during an outdoor event at Utah Valley University, has left Americans asking how something like this could happen and what it says about our ability to protect public life in an era where deep division is prevalent.Kirk was speaking to thousands of students and supporters as part of his “American Comeback Tour.” He had done…
It’s bound to happen in your civilian career.Maybe you’ve been asking your boss for more responsibility, or perhaps you raised your hand to volunteer to give a presentation because you seek visibility with senior company leaders. Whatever the reason, this is a great opportunity to highlight your skills, talent and personal brand.Being visible to the right audience in the right way can be a tremendous career-builder. The key is that your boss, your boss’ boss and others can see you delivering a well-crafted message that achieves an intended result.Unlike a briefing you may have given in the military — the…
Advanced Armament Co. | Ranger 5 RBPAvailable to suppress either 5.56 NATO or 6 mm ARC, each model of this new suppressor features AAC’s first-ever Reduced Back Pressure (RBP) design to eliminate the majority of gas directed into the shooter’s face. In addition to its 3D-printed alloy construction, it sports a high-temp Alphatek finish for added durability and visual appeal. Material: Haynes 282 alloyLength: 5.8 inchesDiameter: 1.5 inchesWeight: 13.2 ouncesMax Chambering: 6 mm ARCSound Reduction: 28 dBMSRP: $899(800) 581-1610; advanced-armament.com B&T | Ranger SSA Silencer Shop exclusive, the Ranger SS combines titanium construction with an innovative baffle design for a…
Update: President Trump avoids Chicago, opts instead to order National Guard troops to “fight crime” in Memphis next, he told Fox during an appearance Friday morning. “Memphis is deeply troubled. We’re gonna fix that just like we did Washington,” Trump said. “I would have preferred going to Chicago.”In terms of violent crime, Memphis is nearly three times as dangerous as Washington, D.C., according to 2024 FBI crime statistics. Memphis recorded more than 15,000 instances with a population of 613,000 people last calendar year compared to 6,500 violent crimes in Washington, where more than 700,000 reside. Memphis ranked fourth in the…