AA: What first got you interested in personal protection and/or firearms?
Sara: My dad gave me a pepper spray a long time ago and insisted that I take care of myself. But, when I was pregnant for the first time, I felt extra vulnerable and decided it was time to get some education in firearms. Once I started with firearms, I found a whole new world of personal protection options.
AA: Describe your first time at the range.
Sara: My first time at a shooting range was during our NRA Basic Pistol class. We had a great instructor but it was still very intimidating. I remember being very anxious and jumping a little every time a shot was fired – it was so loud! We tried out a few different types of guns – a couple revolvers and a couple semi-autos. I remember not liking the revolvers at all. By the end of the session, though, I definitely felt less jumpy. It was a good lesson in conquering fear with education.
AA: Do you have a favorite gun?
Sara: I love my SigSauer P238. It took me a while to really appreciate the 1911 style design, but now I carry it more than anything else. The trigger is super crisp and although its small, which is great for my little hands, its weight really helps keep the recoil down. And, it’s just a super cool looking little gun.
AA: What will be your next personal protection purchase?
Sara: Honestly, I like to spend money on training. I would like to get some education in tactical shooting skills and continue to work on refining my fundamentals. As far as products go, I really like Sticky Holsters and would love to get one for all my guns, especially now that they have come out with a Universal Travel Mount. As far as guns go, I have been using a borrowed Browning 1911 .22 for a while now and will probably be looking to find something similar for my collection. It is super easy to shoot, especially for new shooters, and it is very accurate.
AA: Any advice you would give to someone interested in concealed carry for personal defense?
Sara: Really, it’s just a matter of getting started, especially if you are new to firearms as well. There is a lot to learn and it can be overwhelming if you let it all pile it up. It’s easy to find excuses to put it off for another day. I hope that my story and Athena’s Armory can help people, especially women, get the ball rolling. There are a lot of great people out there that can help guide you through the process.
