In the spring of 2014, Heckler & Koch surprised the firearms world with the introduction of their striker-fired HK VP9. The gun was comfortable to shoot, accurate, customizable to users’ hands, reliable, and affordable. I am not sure that even HK was expecting the gun to be as big of a hit as it was.
When it comes to defensive firearm training geared specifically toward private citizens, I feel confident in stating that Tom Givens is one of the best instructors in the U.S. I can say this because I have been in his class, and because he has had over 60 of his non-LEO students prevail in shooting encounters with criminals.
While a firearm may be considered the most effective tool for personal self-defense, there are times and places where firearms are not an option. This may be due to local laws, your local status, or problems with your firearm.
The phrase “first responder” is overused. But the fact is that if you are present when violence erupts and threatens your safety, by default you become a first responder.