The Armed Citizen® September 12, 2016

by
posted on September 12, 2016
** 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. **
ac2009_fs.jpg (2)

An armed citizen in Bastrop County, Texas, knew he had to do something when he encountered a sheriff’s deputy grappling on the ground with a suspect. When the criminal went for the officer’s firearm, the bystander—who also happens to be a veteran of the Marines—drew his own gun and ordered the 32-year-old man to freeze. The intervention by the concealed carrier caused the attacker to stop pummeling the deputy and to flee, and he was immediately apprehended by other law enforcement officials responding to the scene. “I’m alive today because of him,” the deputy later said of the armed citizen. The suspect now faces charges of aggravated assault of a public servant, taking an officer’s weapon, evading arrest and driving while under the influence with a child under 15—the offense that instigated the initial traffic stop. (Austin American-Statesman, Austin, TX, 1/31/16) 

The Armed Citizen® Archives
December 1964
When a Chicago, Ill., housewife, Mrs. Tommie S. Owen, heard someone tell her husband, who had just answered the door, “This is a stickup,” she retrieved a .25 ACP-chambered pistol and went to aid him. As the bandit started toward her with a raised gun, Mrs. Owen fired once. The bandit, clutching his midsection, tried to fire his gun, but it misfired. He then fled, but was found by the police a few doors away, mortally wounded. (Chicago Daily News, Chicago, IL)

Latest

Trend Monitoring
Trend Monitoring

4 Helpful Online Tools to Track Ammunition Prices

For those seeking the best possible prices on ammunition, a number of new tools have emerged to give firearm enthusiasts an edge up when it comes to feeding their guns on a budget.

Book Review: 2026 Traveler’s Guide to the Firearm Laws of the Fifty States

Newly updated for 2026, the 30th edition of the “Traveler’s Guide to the Firearm Laws of the Fifty States” is a must-have resource for those who travel often and therefore must navigate the patchwork maze of laws imposed in various localities.

5 Must-Have Ruger Mini-14 Accessories

In production since 1973, the Ruger Mini-14 has spawned a rather healthy aftermarket of parts and accessories. Here are five that you really can't live without if you're a true Mini-14 fan.

New For 2026: U.S. Palm Eye of the Storm (EOS) Suppressors

Earlier this year, U.S. Palm promised to offer its own line of firearms and suppressors. Now, its line of suppressors, the Eye of the Storm (EOS) series, is finally here.

Gun of the Week: Taylor's & Co. TC73

The Taylor's Firearms TC73 has classic lines and a classic appearance, but unlike other lever-actions, this one has a few unique features.

The Armed Citizen® June 26, 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.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.