Brian Ostro

Brian Ostro Web

Brian Ostro is an NRA-certified pistol and rifle instructor. He teaches concealed-carry courses in west central Florida. He also runs a firearms and related-topics discussion online forum.

Engaging Suspects With Long Guns

Handguns may be smaller, portable, lighter, concealable and convenient, but they aren't always the best tool for the job. This has been proven again and again on the battlefields of the world and in police engagements throughout history.

July 26, 2010

A Los Angeles County Sheriff's deputy trains with an AR-type carbine. Photo by Kim Pham.

Small-Frame Revolvers: Still An Excellent Choice

For an officer considering a backup gun, one of the major factors is weight. Smith & Wesson and Taurus have addressed these issues in the small-frame revolver by replacing heavier steel frames with lighter aluminum, titanium, and scandium metals.

July 2, 2010

Smith & Wesson's double-action Bodyguard 38 offers a concealed hammer, ambidextrous cylinder release and is rated for +P ammunition. It weighs 14.3 ounces.

Practicing With a .22 Target Pistol

Most officers have incorporated the .22 at some point during their careers or may have become familiar with it during their youth through informal target practice and plinking. For those who want to improve their qualification scores and increase their confidence on the street, an effective next step is a dedicated target pistol designed around the .22 cartridge.

June 8, 2010

Ruger's 22/45 Bull Barrel Rimfire Pistol. Image via Ruger.

Resurgence of the .380 ACP

The .380 ACP round is much shorter than either the 9mm Luger or the .38 Special, creating the ultimate deep concealment package with six to eight rounds of ammunition. This exceeds the average five-shot, deep-concealment revolver by a few potentially life-saving rounds.

May 26, 2010

A .380 auto-loader such as Ruger's LCP can be an effective backup gun for an officer.

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