Bedside Guns — GMP # 186

Published on June 9, 2023
Duration: 32:15

This discussion from Guns Magazine podcast episode #186 focuses on practical considerations for bedside firearms and home defense. Hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington share their personal setups, emphasizing reliable semi-automatic pistols with weapon-mounted lights, easily visible sights, and readily accessible spare magazines. Key advice includes using a separate flashlight for general illumination, the importance of electronic hearing protection for enhanced awareness, and rigorous firearm safety practices, especially with children. The conversation also touches on the utility of fire extinguishers and the critical 'bump in the night' scenario, stressing barricading over direct confrontation.

Quick Summary

For bedside firearm defense, prioritize reliability and ease of access. Equip your pistol with a weapon-mounted light for target identification and consider high-visibility sights. Keep a separate flashlight for general illumination and electronic hearing protection for enhanced awareness. Always practice safe storage, especially with children, and develop a plan to barricade and call for help rather than confronting intruders.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Bedside Guns Discussion
  2. 00:31Sponsor: Four Patriots Solar Go Fridge
  3. 01:21Sponsor: Creedmoor Sports
  4. 01:36Host's Bedside Gun: Glock 21 Setup
  5. 03:22Roy Huntington's Bedside Gun: S&W M&P
  6. 04:18Flashlight Lumens & Night Vision
  7. 04:49Laser vs. Iron Sights Discussion
  8. 05:04Keeping Things Simple: Waking Up
  9. 05:10Separate Flashlight Rationale
  10. 05:27Bedside Pouch Contents: Mag, Light, First Aid
  11. 06:06Electronic Hearing Protection Benefits
  12. 06:40Superman Hearing & Deafness
  13. 07:19Fire Extinguisher as a Primary Tool
  14. 09:40The 'Bump in the Night' Scenario
  15. 10:56Barricading vs. Confrontation
  16. 11:31Yelling 'I'm Armed' & Police En Route
  17. 12:39The Gray Area: Investigating Noises
  18. 13:00Bedside Gun as a Checking Tool
  19. 13:40Primary Fighting Weapon: Remington 870
  20. 14:00Dogs as a Security Measure
  21. 15:09Locking Bedroom Doors for Security
  22. 16:05Home Security Layers: Alarm, Cameras, Lights
  23. 17:00The Bedside Ritual: Checking Doors & Windows
  24. 18:20Grandchildren & Firearm Safety
  25. 19:07Biometric vs. Keyed Safes for Bedside Guns
  26. 20:44Glow-in-the-Dark Sights for Finding the Gun
  27. 21:40Tritium Tubes on Flashlights
  28. 23:25The 911 Dialing Dilemma Under Stress
  29. 25:00Training Level Defaults Under Stress
  30. 25:40Responding to Shots Fired: Adrenaline Dump
  31. 27:00Practicing Clearing Your House
  32. 28:00Team Tactics Classes with Spouse
  33. 29:00Mirrors and Sightlines During Clearing
  34. 29:45Follow-up: Building Clearing Discussion
  35. 30:00Final Thoughts: Don't Be a Hero
  36. 30:30Sponsor Recap: Four Patriots & Creedmoor Sports
  37. 31:30Closing Remarks & Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key considerations for a bedside firearm?

For a bedside firearm, prioritize reliability and ease of access. Consider a semi-automatic pistol with a weapon-mounted light for target identification. Ensure it's loaded with appropriate defensive ammunition and kept accessible, but safely stored if children are present. A separate flashlight and electronic hearing protection are also recommended for enhanced awareness and utility.

Should I use a laser sight or iron sights on my bedside gun?

While laser sights can aid in low-light target acquisition, some find they can distract from focusing on the target itself. Iron sights, especially those with high visibility like 'big dot' or tritium sights, are also effective. The choice often depends on personal preference and training, with simplicity being key when waking up disoriented.

What is the best practice if I hear a noise in my house at night?

If you hear a noise, the primary recommendation is to barricade yourself in a secure room, like your bedroom, and call for help. Avoid confronting the potential intruder. Having your bedside firearm accessible allows you to defend yourself if the intruder breaches your secured location.

How important is firearm safety with children around?

Firearm safety is paramount when children are present. Even if a firearm is kept bedside for defense, it must be secured to prevent unauthorized access. This might involve trigger locks, lockboxes, or biometric safes, though the speed of access in an emergency must also be considered.

Why is a separate flashlight important for home defense?

A separate flashlight is crucial because it allows you to illuminate your surroundings without pointing your firearm. This helps identify threats versus non-threats (like pets or family members) and avoids inadvertently revealing your position or identifying someone you don't intend to engage. It also allows you to search areas without the weapon drawn.

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