Game Wardens: Facts vs Fiction

Texas Game Warden badge, rescue scene background.

Game Wardens are a unique category of law enforcement officers. I can say this with confidence because I married one! My husband, John, who is now retired, was employed by Texas Parks and Wildlife for almost 30 years. From enforcing Texas laws, to catching and moving alligators and the occasional manatee, to patrolling the Texas/Mexico…

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3 Ways a Firearms Instructor Can Become a Better Teacher

Shooting lesson with instructor outdoors.

You can be the best shot in your chosen firearm discipline, but if you are not a good communicator, you may not be an effective teacher. NRA Firearms training courses advise new shooters to seek out the advice of knowledgeable shooters when researching and purchasing their first gun. Gaining knowledge is only possible through education. We have…

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Identical Twin Cartridges – the Exception to the Rule

Two rifle cartridges with ammunition boxes.

Exceptions include cartridges that have identical size dimensions, bullet weights, and powder charges but have different industry recognized names. Safe shooters know the importance of using the correct ammunition in their firearms. NRA Certified Firearm Instructors are expected to teach the importance of matching the correct ammunition to the firearm in Lesson II of all…

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Gertrude Claus – Santa Claus’s Better Half

Woman in festive attire by decorated staircase.

It is said that behind every successful man is a great woman, and that includes the jolliest of men! Itโ€™s that time of year againโ€”Christmas, the most magical time of the year. Images of this holiday season form when we are very young, which we carry throughout our lifetime. There is nothing like the memories…

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Two Great Choices for Quick Release Scope Mounts

Two grizzly bears walking among rocks.

If you have ever gone into the brush for a quick follow-up shot on game, you understand the importance of this type of mount. Many species of game animals can be hunted throughout North America, ranging from the Gulf of America to the Arctic, and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific. There are also…

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5 Often Misunderstood Common Cartridge Terms

Revolver with wooden grip and ammunition displayed.

Whether you are a firearms instructor, competitive shooter or just practicing at the range, it is important to learn and use the correct terminology when referring to firearms, ammunition and their components. It seems that the longer that I teach NRA firearms courses, the more firearms and ammunition vocabulary I am learning. It does not…

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My Gun Has an Identity Crisis

Wooden rifle with dual triggers on fabric.

Things arenโ€™t always what they seemโ€”even with collectible firearms. Have you ever looked a firearm and said to yourself, โ€œThat is such a cool gun!โ€ Chances are that others may think the same thing about that same gun. This is one reason why some older firearms cost more than others. There are several factors that…

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