A Day in the Life

posted on December 9, 2013
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to be an armorer-or more specifically the NRA Publications' armorer-you came to the right place. NRA Publications is your first-hand source for the latest and greatest industry offerings. As the division armorer, it is my duty to maintain our inventory of firearms, optics and gear. Every firearm that you see reviewed in print and online first passes through my office, so it is my privilege to give you a sneak peek even before an editor gets his hands on it. This is My Job…

My day usually starts fairly early-65 miles away I begin the journey into the abyss of one million gas-guzzling crazed rats looking for their slice of cheese. Fortunately upon arrival at NRA Headquarters, my slice starts off with a trip to the “Vault” and a confused stare into the darkness as I gather my rat-race thoughts and feel for the light switch. I am sure most of you are pondering, “What’s in the vault?” Well, maybe one of these days I’ll be permitted to take you there. But for now, I will just close the door and head up to my office with the “cart” and how could I forget…guns.

Guns and gear aren’t the only things on my cheese platter-my job includes managing our Tech Range, Tech Shop, Office Shop, Dope Bag reviews, assisting Mark Keefe with American Rifleman TV, and list goes on and on. I know-your patience is dwindling and you want to see some guns, scopes (and, of course, Mark’s good looks), but for now I will have to draw this to a close and get back to work. The photo lab is looking for a feature gun for February’s issue of American Rifleman. Stay tuned to “This Is My Job” and we will pick up where I left off…

Latest

TriStar Raptor II Walnut
TriStar Raptor II Walnut

Review: TriStar Raptor II Walnut

TriStar Arms offers an extensive variety of cost-effective shotguns, including this walnut-stocked Raptor II, the latest in the company's semi-automatic line.

Preview: TangoDown iO Cover For Aimpoint T-2

The Aimpoint Micro T-2 and H-2 are quality, versatile red-dot optics, but they are also expensive, and, like all such units, can sustain damage from impacts and the elements.

Hornady’s 338 ARC

The latest hard-hitting Advanced Rifle Cartridge from Hornady, the 338 ARC, takes a swing at both established numbers and newcomers—after already producing successful offspring. 

The Armed Citizen® Dec. 8, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Youth Firearm Education, Shooting Leagues On The Rise

Several states have instituted firearm education courses for students in public schools, and several scholastic shooting leagues have posted record attendance numbers in recent years.

Preview: Fix-It Sticks Rifle And Optics Toolkit With All-In-One Torque Driver

An optic coming loose can ruin a hunt or a range session, so having a pocket-size remedy such as the Fix-It Sticks Rifle and Optics Toolkit is a prudent hedge.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.