Welcome to The Little Gunner Boy
Welcome aboard, my name is Jacob Frasier, and I aim to make this site your go-to guide for firearms and self-defense training in North Texas. My goal is to publish weekly updates concerning defending yourself and those around you. For now, let me introduce myself and explain what you can expect from me.
- Background
- A Devastating Diagnosis
- The Why
- The When
- Program or Plinking
- Firearms and Self-Defense
- Wrap-up
Background
I am a three-time Iraq War veteran. After Boot Camp at Recruit Training Command (Illinois, 2002) I was transferred to Gunner’s Mate School at the Naval Station Great Lakes, Illinois. After a quick vacation back to Dallas I headed to my next duty station in El Paso, Texas for some secret squirrel training. There I stayed for two weeks until finally arriving at Little Creek, Virginia aboard the USS Tornado (PC-14).
Throughout my career, as you can see here, I had the opportunity to go to many schools and training programs. The toughest of these mentally was passing my Officer of the Deck Underway (OOD) qualification. As an enlisted sailor (E-6), this is a qualification usually reserved for E-7 and above, and officers. My time in the Navy gave me invaluable knowledge and experiences that I hoped to one day impart upon others. This is my goal for the Little Gunner Boy: to share those insights and lessons with you.
Deployments
During my deployments I was a part of numerous operations stateside, as well as abroad during operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom (OIF/OEF). My first two deployments were on US Navy Patrol Coastals (PCs) where we visited Bahrain, Iraq, UAE, and surrounding countries. My third and final aboard was on the USS Nashville (LPD-13) where we assisted in the evacuation of Lebanese-Americans during the Israeli/Lebanon conflict of 2006. After my sea duty was completed I was stationed in Buffalo, NY for shore duty. These experiences brought about a mix of emotions, sometimes thrilling and sometimes sad, but I made it through and am looking forward to sharing my knowledge with you.
A Devastating Diagnosis
Unfortunately, four years after I left the service (September 2014) I had a stroke, and lost all sensation on my right side (good thing I’m ambidextrous!). Additionally, I lost my ability to speak or form words. Even now, apraxia or aphasia pop up and I will have to think about a word, phrase, or pronunciation. Thankfully, I coined an acronym that got me through all of these trials: IMODADOV. Improvise, Modify, Adapt, and Overcome. This mantra has given me a new purpose.
On July 1, 2019 (after my rehabilitation was mostly complete) I started teaching firearms and self-defense training throughout North Texas. Over the next few years I obtained my civilian qualifications (Navy quals don’t translate to civilian ones).
The Why
Throughout my eight year, eight month, and seven day naval career I started noticing that the phrase “good enough for government work” was the norm. I figure students prefer to receive better. When it comes to firearms and self-defense training, one should start with excellence first, and that’s how I teach my students.
NOTE: The following is NOT legal advice and you should verify your State/County/City’s laws at all times.
There are many reasons why one should understand firearms and self-defense, but there are three pillars that are paramount therein: Self-defense, defense of others, and defense of property.
Self-Defense
In order for a person to have a thriving life they should take care of themselves first (mentally, physically, etc.) so they will be able to better help others if they so choose, and in the firearms and self-defense arena this is even more important. That’s why I highly recommend you research legal avenues so you are protected. I use USCCA for my firearms and self-defense legal protection, however I recommend you do your own research and find the one that fits your needs.
Self-defense, whether using hands, feet, or a weapon, has been around since the first laws were laid down by Ur-Nammu between c. 2100-2050 BC. In that document, on which most modern-day laws are modeled, we see many similarities to today’s laws, and there are even ones governing self-defense. Today we even more laws governing how and why we need to be aware of our respective State’s laws if we ever must use deadly force.
Defense of Others
While, as civilians, we are no way obligated to defend others, it is natural for some to do so. There are (in some States) laws that protect “Good Samaritans” for rendering aid. You can read more here.
Defense of Property
I personally don’t care all that much about “stuff” unless it concerns inherently dangerous property. (Guns, knives, etc.) Stuff can be replaced, you can not, and only you give value to “stuff.” Get safe, call the police, and get home.
Program or Plinking?
When you sign up for my training program, I will send you seven emails laying out my teaching philosophy. You may feel free to reply with any questions, and can then sign a waiver in order schedule range time. These range sessions will be custom-tailored to your individual interests and goals. I am able to instruct across a range of categories: handguns, rifles, shotguns, and self-defense with a bit of situational awareness sprinkled in. If you are interested in competitive shooting I can get you ready for that as well. I recommend my students schedule a session at least every 2 to 3 months at a minimum in order to retain knowledge and maintain consistency. Understand that actual shooting at a range is the most important training you will ever do.
However, if you are only interested in some coaching or plinking for fun, that is also available. I always provide the same level of excellent instruction for each of my students.
While I can get you to competition level shooting, my main goal is to teach beginners and continuing students the correct and safe way to learn firearms and self-defense. My homepage training tab is reserved for that purpose. For now, let’s dive in.
Firearms and Self-Defense
Here are the six areas that are covered in my firearms and self-defense training program: handguns, rifles, shotguns, three-gun, Silver Shooters, and self-defense. As these topics show up, ask all the questions you have about each one. I am unable to provide an answer for you, I will point you in the right direction.
For all intents and purposes, you first must understand that you, and you alone, are responsible for your and your family’s safety. Not the police. Not the fire department. You. I still respect and admire those individuals that put themselves in harms way to protect protect our lives and property, but your first line of defense is you. Be your own bodyguard, and the best way to protect those who rely on you is to always continue learning. So as you begin your firearms and self-defense training with me, remember your “why” and let’s get started.
Firearms
I remember the first term I had to memorize at Gunners Mate “A” school: “Gun: A hollow tube closed at one end through which a projectile is ejected due the pressure created from a rapidly burning propellant.” And that’s all a “gun” is. Also, there are many types of actions on guns, and depending upon your preference and goals that will part of your decision making process when choosing the gun for your needs.
For now, let’s focus on the three main areas of your firearms learning: handguns, rifles, and shotguns.
Note: The main difference between a semi-automatic and fully-automatic gun is the sear that has a third detent in the selector switch. Unless you have a FFL it is illegal to possess a fully automatic firearm.
Handguns
The handgun family includes revolvers and pistols. Note: all pistols are handguns but not handguns are pistols. The same thing goes for revolvers and handguns. This dichotomy can be found throughout the firearms community. (I.e. you can shoot .223 ammo out of a 5.56-chambered rifle, but you don’t want to shoot 5.56-chambered ammo through a rifle chambered for .223. There are many other examples, so ALWAYS check your manual.) There are two types of handguns for firearms and self-defense: revolvers and pistols, and in the pistol category there are semi-automatics, break-actions, and bolt-actions.
Revolvers
Between single action, double action, and double action only, how you choose your revolver depends on how you intend its use. And I like the Kimber 6s .357 Magnum for its light weight but powerful punch.
Pistols
Semi-Automatic Pistol
Among the popular platforms out there because of its magazine feature. Those magazines range between 8 round capacity like the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield to the Kel-Tec PMR 30 which carries 30 rounds.
Break-Action Pistol
Popularized by the Derringer, these “pocket pistols” can be carried in a pocket or waistband. It can be carried in a purse, but a purse can be easily stolen if one is not very careful. I recommend the holsters from Alien Gear if you are looking for something both comfortable and concealable.
Bolt-Action Pistol
These little puppies come in single shot or with a magazine, but don’t let their small size fool you. Remember, whether it’s a .22 or a .50, the bullet will still cause damage.
Rifles
Aside from how often USG changes the definitions of what a rifle is, here we will go of the latest iteration. (If you don’t know what I’m talking about then this video is for you.) These are the bolt-action, lever-action, break-action, pump-action, semi and fully automatic, falling-block, breech-loading, and muzzle-loading rifles.
Bolt-Action Rifles
If long range and accuracy are your goals, then these are your choice. These guns are great for the novice to the professional.
Lever-Action Rifles
Popularized, in my experience, from the old, black & white TV show called “The Rifleman.” These are very accurate guns and, depending on the model, can carry between 6-21 rounds
Break-Action Rifle
Similar to the break-action shotgun, but can fire rounds with much better accuracy due to rifling.
Pump-Action Rifle
These are great for beginners. My first time shooting at age 5 was with a BB gun like this.
Semi- and Fully Automatic Rifle
A good amount of civilian guns are semi-automatic, but one can rent a full auto at many ranges. However, you can request permission from the government to own one…
These have an additional mode for either burst (3 rounds per trigger pull) or fully automatic.
There are also the falling-block, breech-loading, and muzzle-loading rifles, and I will cover those in more detail in the Rifle session.
Shotguns
The first shotgun was commissioned the the 16th century, most notably utilized by King Henry VIII of England, and this article is an excellent example of that evolution. Here are the three basic types of shotguns for firearms and self-defense: break-action, pump-action, and semi-automatic.
Break-Action Shotguns
Great for big game hunters and competition shooting. Not many rounds, however.
Pump-Action Shotgun
These made it easier to load more rounds via a magazine tube.
Semi-Automatic Shotgun
The semi-automatic shotgun is a staple at three-gun competitions. My favorite is the Stoeger M3K with extended magazine.
Three-Gun
This is the epitome of firearms and self-defense training. After you have familiarized yourself with the three platforms and you want a bigger challenge, then this will be a fantastic way to bump up your skills.
Here is Jerry Miculek explaining the sport:
Silver Shooters
It is never too late to learn a new skill, and age shouldn’t be an issue. Whether you are new to firearms and self-defense or if it’s been a few decades, this training program is right for you.
Self-Defense
Each calendar quarter I teach my firearms and self-defense system at Plano Taekwondo America. Real life scenarios will be shown and how to overcome them. Each class is 90 minutes long, with a minimum class size of 6, max of 12.
These classes are in a group setting, however private instruction is available with advanced notice.
Wrap-Up
On my end, I am constantly researching updated concepts and tactics so my students have the knowledge needed to safely and legally defend themselves, their loved ones, and their community. Over the next few months I will delve deeper into each of the categories mentioned above. Make sure you check back in weekly as I write more!
And that’s it for now! Thanks for reading this through and each out with any questions you may have.
Rule 1: Always have a plan.
Rule 2: IMODADOV(TM). Improvise, modify, adapt, and overcome.