The Armed Citizen® July 2, 2021

Law-Abiding Citizens Using Their 2nd Amendment Rights In Self-Defense

by
posted on July 2, 2021
** 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. **
The Armed Citizen

Armed Citizen® Today

A Lewis County, W. Va., woman was forced to fight for her life when a man assaulted her on the evening of June 20, 2021.

The woman and a man were inside a residence that evening when he attacked her from behind with blows to the head and then kicked her on the ground. The man then began to choke her, tightening both hands around her neck and telling her he was going to kill her. As she was choked, the woman reached into her pocket and grabbed her pocket pistol.

She then drew the pistol, pushed not into her attacker's chest and fired. The shot loosened the attacker's grip, and the woman was able to get free. She then dialed 911 and attempted to render aid to the man. He was pronounced dead at the scene by the time paramedics arrived. The woman is not being charged in the shooting. (wdtv.com, Bridgeport, W. Va., 06/20/2021)

From the Armed Citizen® Archives - January 1987

Wayne Harder and a friend were leaving a Memphis, Tenn., store when a woman pounded on their car window to tell them that a robbery was taking place at a next-door fast-food restaurant. Seeing two apparent robbers inside, Harder waited so he could give descriptions to police but decided to take action when the men approached the car.

Pulling his registered handgun, the Vietnam veteran opened the door and told the would-be robbers to freeze. They spread-eagled on the ground, and Harder and his friend disarmed the pair, holding them for police. (The Commercial Appeal, Memphis, Tenn.)

Latest

LCP Max Magpul 01
LCP Max Magpul 01

The LCP Meets Magpul: Ruger's LCP Max with Magpul's EHG

Over the years, Ruger has enhanced its LCP with the introduction of the LCP II and LCP Max. New for 2026, Ruger is offering a new version of the LCP Max with the addition of a Magpul Enhanced Handgun Grip.

Review: 945 Industries Q.A.P. Series Off-Body Carry Bag

Off-body carry can be somewhat controversial, but choosing the right gear can go a long way toward successful carry. One good option is the Q.A.P. Series of bags from 945 Industries.

At 75, CCI is Offering Even More

In 2026, CCI Ammunition—formally Cascade Cartridge, Inc.—marks its 75th anniversary with a fitting tribute to innovation and American ingenuity.

Gun of the Week: Powder River Precision Rubicon Icon

Powder River Precision has taken the basic Ruger 10/22 rifle concept and enhanced it with its Rubicon Icon design.

The Armed Citizen® May 1, 2026

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

Training & Gear for Active Shooter Response

For armed civilians, developing an active-shooter response plan isn’t about playing hero. It’s about having the right gear and the skills to decisively use them if violence finds you.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.