Navigating the Firearms Community: A Heathen's Perspective on Honor and Common Sense

From the Bench: Reflections on community, wisdom, and the path of the ever-learning student

By Hootey Cline, Blue Coat Arms Company

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After nearly a decade working within the firearms community, I've observed patterns, learned hard lessons, and developed what I hope are some useful principles for navigating this complex world we inhabit. Writing from the perspective of someone who follows the Nordic/Germanic Heathen path, I've found that many of these insights ring true regardless of one's spiritual background.

When I say "community," I'm talking about the firearms community – that diverse collection of hunters, competitors, collectors, professionals, and everyday citizens who share a common interest in firearms. It's a community that spans political, religious, and cultural boundaries, united by our respect for these tools and the responsibilities they carry.

These are not the only principles for dealing with danger – especially of the social and interpersonal variety – but they're a decent start based on what I've learned so far. My hope is that sharing these thoughts will engage others who feel that Second Amendment discussions have become too narrow, too politicized, or too "Christianized" for many people to find common ground.

Fundamental Truths About Tools and Tactics

1. There is no "ultimate man-stopper" except maybe a 105mm High Explosive shell

The marketing world loves to sell us magic bullets and ultimate solutions. The reality is more humble: effectiveness depends on many variables, and even military-grade weapons can fail to stop determined threats.

What I've learned: Focus on fundamentals rather than chasing the latest "ultimate" solution.

2. Shot placement is far more important than caliber, energy, velocity, momentum, or other advertising garbage

.22LR has killed things as big as grizzly bears, while a miss with .50BMG does nothing. This isn't to advocate for inadequate cartridges, but to emphasize that marksmanship trumps marketing every time.

The lesson: Practice with what you have rather than constantly upgrading what you carry.

3. Wearing "tacti-cool" gear doesn't make you cool

Brand new "tacti-cool" gear will make you look like a douche-bag. A plate carrier with multiple whimsical patches, worn on the range merely for visual effect when you've never worn one "in the field," makes you an ultra douche-bag.

The wisdom here: Earn your gear through experience, not through online purchases.

Understanding Human Nature

4. The bigger the cleavage on the advertising, generally the worse the product is

This applies to firearms marketing as much as anything else. Sex sells, but it doesn't improve ballistic performance.

5. Fear is a natural phenomenon. Embrace it and learn to use it to your advantage

Being "fearless" means taking stupid risks. Fear keeps us alive when properly channeled. The goal isn't to eliminate fear but to function effectively despite it.

What this means: Train to work with your natural responses, not against them.

6. The more combat a person has seen, the less likely they are to talk about it

Real experience tends to make people quieter, not louder. Those who've been there understand the weight of what they've experienced.

The observation: Be wary of those who can't stop talking about their "combat experience."

7. Scars are nature's way of saying "I screwed up"

They also make good visual aids for training and will sometimes get you a free beer. Results may vary.

The point: Learn from mistakes – yours and others' – without being ashamed of the learning process.

Character and Courage

8. Courage is the first requirement of success in a crisis

It's easy to "talk the talk," but you should test your courage periodically to make sure it's still there – or was even there to begin with.

How to test it: Put yourself in challenging but safe situations that require you to overcome fear or discomfort.

9. Even the most advanced pieces of technology will break down under adverse conditions

Simplicity and reliability often trump complexity and features. This applies to firearms, optics, and everything else we depend on.

10. A sense of humor will get you through anything from a gunshot wound to a divorce

It's difficult to think of droll comments when suffering a sucking chest wound during a court proceeding, but it helps lighten the mood.

The truth: Humor is a survival tool, not just entertainment.

Information and Instruction

11. Everything on the internet should be considered "for entertainment purposes only"

By now everyone should have realized that SuperDeathSEALKillerComando66669 on an internet forum is just a fat-ass 13-year-old gamer on a laptop in the basement.

The lesson: Verify sources and claims through multiple channels before accepting them as fact.

12. Gun store clerks come in two flavors: Aficionados and Salesmen

It is your job to know the difference. One wants to help you find the right tool; the other wants to move inventory.

13. Any product that has the word "miracle" on it is not

Any shooting technique named after the developer – as named by the developer – should be treated just the same. Be skeptical of self-promotion in all its forms.

Trust and Awareness

14. Trust no one except your grandmother. Keep an eye on her

This might sound cynical, but it's really about maintaining healthy skepticism while still being able to function in society.

15. Being alert will prevent 99% of problems

If you are alert, you will be much more prepared to deal with the 1% – the real problems. Situational awareness is your first and best defense.

16. Do unto others as they would do unto you. Just make sure you do it first

This is the tactical version of the Golden Rule – be prepared to act decisively when necessary.

Conflict and Violence

17. Death loves a braggart

Everyone else loves to see him kicked in the groin – therefore don't ever brag about your tacti-coolness. See rules 3 & 6.

18. There is no such thing as a fair fight

If you are in a fight, the last thing you should do is fight fair. This is why many old, slow, creaky guys are still dangerous – they understand this principle.

19. We should all do more to include our loved ones in crisis preparation and training

Your family's safety depends on their knowledge and preparation, not just yours.

Humility and Wisdom

20. If you know it all – you know nothing

This is perhaps the most important rule on this list. The moment you stop learning is the moment you start becoming dangerous to yourself and others.

21. There is always someone who is tougher, faster, a better shot, or just luckier than you somewhere out in the world

Remember this when considering a fight you could otherwise avoid. Humility can save your life.

22. There is no shame in avoiding a problem. This is otherwise known as wisdom

The best fight is the one you never have. Strategic withdrawal is often the smartest tactical choice.

23. The first rule of knife fighting is to not get into a knife fight

If you find yourself in a knife fight, the best self-defense technique is applying a magazine full of large caliber bullets as quickly as possible.

The reality: Edged weapon encounters are extraordinarily dangerous for everyone involved.

Preparation and Practice

24. Anything and everything can and will fail at the worst possible moment

Murphy's Law is not just a saying – it's a fundamental principle of the universe. Plan for failure and have backups.

25. We could all use a little more cardio

Physical fitness is a survival skill, not just a lifestyle choice. Your gear is only as good as your ability to carry and use it.

26. When in doubt, doubt. Your inner voice is worlds smarter than you give it credit for

Intuition is pattern recognition operating below the conscious level. Trust those gut feelings.

27. Virtually everything you see on commercial television is staged. E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G

This includes "reality" shows, news coverage, and especially anything involving firearms. Understand that media is entertainment, not education.

28. If you do not practice a movement at least 2000 times, you will never perform it correctly under stress

This is an iron-clad, unbreakable rule that no one follows. Muscle memory requires massive repetition to be reliable.

Everyday Dangers

29. A vehicle will kill you just as dead as a high-powered rifle. Always respect traffic

More Americans die in car accidents than gunfights. Maintain perspective on actual risks versus perceived ones.

30. No instructor is a God

Avoid the Cult of Personality, especially if you are new to firearms training classes – almost everyone seems brilliant when you are new.

The wisdom: Learn from multiple sources and think critically about what you're taught.

Equipment Philosophy

31. There is nothing wrong with blued guns, revolvers, leather holsters, or firearms without "cutting-edge aerospace technology"

There is also nothing wrong with "black guns." Do NOT be dogmatic. Tools are tools – choose what works for your needs and circumstances.

32. The human brain is the deadliest weapon ever invented

Everything else is just a tool. Your mind is what makes the difference between success and failure.

Mindset and Preparation

33. You'll never wake up knowing that today is the day

Crisis comes without warning. This is why we prepare and train during peaceful times.

34. Practice does not make perfect, perfect practice does

Repetition of poor technique just makes poor technique automatic. Focus on quality over quantity in your training.

35. If you can't tie a trustworthy knot, change a tire, kill your own food, or perform basic first aid, you are not really prepared for anything

Self-reliance extends far beyond firearms. Develop a broad base of practical skills.

36. There is no one weapon system, tactic, technique, or school of thought to address every situation

Those that believe such claims are delusional. Flexibility and adaptability are key to survival.

Legal and Moral Considerations

37. Murder is wrong. Killing is, sometimes, necessary and excusable

If you can't become comfortable with this idea, then do NOT carry a weapon. Understand the moral and legal implications of defensive force.

38. The Second Amendment is YOUR responsibility!

Take this responsibility seriously, or your future weapon stories will be about the effectiveness of bars of soap in socks. Rights require active defense to survive.

39. There is an infinite number of "one mores"

One more gun, one more problem, one more knife, one more bad guy... Accept that preparation is an ongoing process, not a destination.

40. Our opponents are generally and frequently smarter than we give them credit for

Underestimating threats – whether criminal or political – is a dangerous mistake. Respect your opposition's capabilities.

41. A bad outcome in court after a justified use of force can be just as deadly as a gunshot wound

Know your legal rights and responsibilities. The fight doesn't end when the shooting stops.

Tactical Considerations

42. NEVER get between two people fighting

This applies whether it's a domestic dispute or a bar fight. You don't know the history, relationships, or dynamics involved.

43. Train yourself to relax during and after stressful events

You'll perform better and live longer. Stress management is a learnable skill.

44. Go somewhere inspiring and meditate on the concept of honor

Do this regularly and you will be less likely to do something cowardly or immoral. Character requires cultivation.

45. Guns and alcohol DO NOT mix

If you drink, you must be unarmed. If you can't live by this rule, then DO NOT drink! This rule personally chafes me, but I follow it religiously.

46. NEVER stand in a doorway

Doorways are fatal funnels and natural choke points. Position yourself where you have options for movement.

47. Use light to your advantage

Whenever possible, just flick light switches rather than using a flashlight. Then again, if you are not proficient with flashlight shooting techniques, you will be at a disadvantage in most dangerous encounters.

48. ALWAYS carry a knife, a gun, and a light

Two is better, one is critical. These are the basic tools of preparedness.

49. Preparedness or "being tactical" should be an unspoken lifestyle, not a publicly shared hobby

The gray man concept exists for good reasons. Effective preparation often means blending in, not standing out.

Final Thoughts: The Path of the Ever-Learning Student

These principles come from years of observation, training, mistakes, and conversations with people far wiser than myself. They're not commandments carved in stone – they're working guidelines that have proven useful in navigating the complex world of firearms ownership and community participation.

From a Heathen perspective, these rules align with concepts of honor, wisdom, and personal responsibility that run deep in Germanic and Nordic traditions. But I believe they speak to universal human truths that transcend any particular spiritual path.

What I hope you take away: The firearms community is like any other human community – it contains wisdom and foolishness, heroes and charlatans, deep knowledge and dangerous ignorance. Your job is to navigate it with honor, humility, and common sense.

The path of the ever-learning student means accepting that we're all works in progress. Every day offers opportunities to learn something new, correct a misconception, or refine our understanding. This applies whether we're talking about ballistics, tactics, or human nature.

No matter your era, we got your six – whether you're new to the community or a longtime member, these principles can help guide your journey toward becoming not just a better shooter, but a better member of the community we all share.

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Questions about community engagement, training, or the philosophical aspects of firearms ownership? Blue Coat Arms Company believes in building a stronger, more thoughtful firearms community through education, respect, and shared wisdom. Contact us at 217-416-5962 or BlueCoatArms@gmail.com.