We The People: Meet Tom Beckstrand

Published on December 16, 2019
Duration: 5:00

Tom Beckstrand, rifle and optics editor for Guns & Ammo, discusses the importance of inclusive messaging in the firearms community. He highlights a manual used by gun ban advocates to divide the public and exploit tragedies for legislative gain. Beckstrand advocates for welcoming new shooters and fostering passion for firearms, rather than engaging in online negativity.

Quick Summary

Tom Beckstrand, rifle and optics editor for Guns & Ammo, highlights a messaging book used by gun ban advocates that details strategies for dividing the public and leveraging tragedies for legislative gain. He stresses the importance of fostering inclusion and welcoming new shooters into the firearms community, rather than engaging in online negativity.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction: Tom Beckstrand's Background
  2. 00:10Early Love for Firearms
  3. 00:26West Point and Special Forces Selection
  4. 00:35Service Post-9/11
  5. 00:48Special Forces and Counterterrorism Service
  6. 01:17Beast Barracks at West Point
  7. 01:38Rifle Marksmanship at West Point
  8. 02:18Post-Army Career and Gun Writing
  9. 03:00The Shooting World Today
  10. 03:11Concerns About Division and Hate
  11. 03:19Gun Control Messaging Tactics
  12. 03:54Avoiding Online Negativity
  13. 04:04Message of Inclusion for New Shooters
  14. 04:15Introducing Liberal Friends to Firearms
  15. 04:44Focus on Welcoming and Inclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key strategies used by groups aiming to ban guns?

According to Tom Beckstrand, a key strategy involves a messaging book that outlines how to divide the public and exploit catastrophic events to push for additional gun legislation. The focus is on banning guns rather than addressing violence.

How should the firearms community address online disagreements about gun techniques?

Instead of engaging in negative commentary or 'hating' on individuals with different gun techniques online, the firearms community should adopt a message of inclusion. The goal is to welcome new shooters and foster their passion for firearms.

What is Tom Beckstrand's perspective on the current state of firearms in mainstream culture?

Tom Beckstrand believes that firearms have never been more mainstream than they are currently. He sees this as a positive development, though he also notes that the community itself has become more fragmented.

What is the primary concern Tom Beckstrand has about the current situation in the country?

Tom Beckstrand's primary concern is the increasing division and hatefulness within the country. He contrasts this with a past sense of national unity and emphasizes the need for more inclusive dialogue.

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