The chilly nights are here. I often succumb to the pull of my down duvet and a good book. I read poetry, fiction, non-fiction, historical fiction and WWII history tales. I am teased about my obsession with rock and roll biographies. I am an advocate for libraries. Reading can be an escape; it can open our minds, provide education and sharpen our vocabularies. I’d love to list my favorite Beatles biographies or European medieval history tomes, but this is a website devoted to concealed carry. If books and guns are a part of your life, I recommend the following great books for gun owners for your reading pleasure.
Gun Guys: A Road Trip, by Dan Baum. Baum is an accomplished journalist and writer with impressive credentials. As a Jewish Democrat, Baum admits he’s an unlikely gun nut. But he was a crack shot at age 5 and his interest in guns expanded from there. In an effort to find out what drew others to gun culture, Baum “disguised” himself as fairly gun-neutral and hit the American road seeking answers.
Baum explores gun culture, politics and statistics respectfully, presenting both sides of the gun ownership question. He speaks to people on the street, and to organizations and politicians to create this colorful tapestry. The writing is solid. Here, he sums up his affection for guns: “I came to love the snap of the rifle, the rich aroma of burned cordite, the magical geometry of the bullet’s razor-straight trajectory connection to a tiny, distant point.” That’s gun poetry.
Gun Digest Book of Concealed Carry, by Massad Ayoob. Ayoob has written at least a dozen gun and self-defense-related books. He’s an expert in the field, teaching law enforcement and civilians since 1974. He has also served as an expert witness; the man knows his guns. This book is a great tool for people new to concealed carry. In simple and concise writing, Ayoob covers law, finer legal considerations, choice of gun, defensive ammunition, spare magazines, reloading, lights and lasers, holster types, draw techniques, backup pistols, open carry and wardrobe choices. This book is a tremendous resource.
Concealed Carry and Home Defense Fundamentals, by Michael Martin. Martin is the Chief Instructor for the United States Concealed Carry Association; his credentials are deep. This is a fantastic read for any concealed carry permit holder, or anyone considering it. Martin delves into situational awareness and the role it plays in avoiding conflict. But what I may like most about this book is that he addresses the mental game involved in self-defense as well as physical changes in the body under times of stress. You will also find valuable advice on what to do and what not to do after a shooting—a subject not broached often enough. This is a solid choice for your home library.
Happy reading!
