When FN America extends an invitation, you don’t decline. We were brought to the Sawmill Training Complex in South Carolina for a full day of field testing the company’s newest offerings. These products are set to be revealed at SHOT Show 2026, and FN let us get hands-on time ahead of the public release. What we found was a trio of platforms that speak directly to customer demand, whether you’re a new buyer or a seasoned professional.
With the release of their product line at SHOT Show 2026, we are now able to release details to the public! Enjoy!
FN 309 MRD: A Pistol for Everyone
The first firearm on the line was the FN 309 MRD, built from the ground up with the first-time owner in mind. It’s approachable, affordable, and surprisingly refined.
The 309 MRD features a ~5-pound trigger, a 15-degree grip angle, and polymer magazines available in 16, 20, or 10 rounds. It’s optics-ready, has a light rail for accessories, and includes a holster designed in-house by FN, removing the guesswork for buyers.
Where it really shines is in the mechanics. Racking force is reduced by 25 percent compared to most tactical pistols, and the loading process is forgiving even if a round is inserted in the wrong direction. The result is a pistol that is easy to run, maintain, and trust.
On the range, the 309 MRD felt like it came pre-broken-in. Cycling was smooth, disassembly was simple, and magazine servicing was straightforward. The slide release was a bit stiff, but it’s nothing training won’t address. Best of all, the pistol is expected to retail for under $500, an impressive value for its feature set.
The Next SCAR Evolution
FN’s SCAR rifle family has long been the crown jewel of its lineup. The new SCAR models add meaningful improvements without losing what made the platform iconic.
The bolt carrier is now a two-piece unit with a built-in hydraulic buffer. In the 7.62 variant, that translated to softer recoil and more consistent shot placement. We were pushing hits at 1,385 meters with confidence. The 5.56 version was arguably the star of the day, the hydraulic system virtually eliminated muzzle climb, so maintaining sight picture between shots was effortless.
Other updates include an extended forearm that covers the gas block, a longer integrated M-LOK rail, ambidextrous controls, QD sling mounts, and compatibility with mil-spec AR-15 stocks. The safety selector can be configured 24 different ways, letting shooters fine-tune the controls to their preference. Even better, these upgrades are backwards-compatible with earlier SCARs. FN estimates they represent about $900 in added value, without increasing the rifle’s price.
QD 556 and QD 762 Suppressors
FN also introduced two suppressors, the QD 556 and QD 762, both 3D-printed from Inconel and built to exceed SURG-cycle durability standards. They feature forward-venting (flowthrough) designs, are magnum-rated, and ship with HUB-compatible QD mounts and muzzle brakes.
The mounting system includes a tactile ratchet that confirms proper lockup. FN added wrench flats and spanner cutouts so you can attach or remove them with whatever tools are on hand, a thoughtful touch that shows the design team has spent time in the field. During testing on the SCAR rifles, performance was excellent, with no blowback issues and reliable consistency.
Final Thoughts
After a day at the Sawmill, one takeaway was clear: FN is paying attention to its audience. The 309 MRD lowers the barrier for first-time pistol buyers. The next-generation SCAR brings refinements that serious users will notice immediately. And the QD suppressors offer practical design choices that shooters will appreciate in real conditions.
FN is definitely listening to their customers, whether it’s your everyday Joe buying his first pistol or a Tier 1 operator taking care of business abroad.
For this edition of Offgrid Adventures, we’re setting our sights on two landscapes that tell very different stories of wild America. First is Jack Creek Preserve, an expansive stretch of Montana wilderness tucked between Ennis and Big Sky, where mountain trails lead deep into country still shaped by the hands of its original stewards. Then, we’ll move west to California’s Pinnacles National Park, a place born of fire and fracture, where ancient volcanic rock towers above caves and canyons. Together, these two destinations offer a study in contrast, one rooted in alpine forests and conservation, the other in shifting geology and survival of the land itself.
Jack Creek Preserve, Montana
Adventure Appeal: Jack Creek Preserve offers a rare wilderness experience in Montana’s Madison Mountains, where 4,500 acres of protected land serve as both a recreational destination and a vital wildlife corridor. Nestled between Ennis and Big Sky, the preserve connects two sections of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness, allowing elk, bear, and other wildlife to thrive in their natural habitat. Visitors can hike along the Jack Creek Trail, which provides year-round access to Forest Service land and deeper wilderness terrain. For those seeking adventure, the preserve offers opportunities to learn traditional outdoor skills, from bowhunting to wilderness tracking. Its rugged terrain, alpine lakes, and sweeping mountain views create an immersive setting for explorers who want more than just a scenic stop, but instead a living classroom in conservation and ecology.
Few places afford such an abundance of panoramic views.
Survival Readiness: Travelers to Jack Creek Preserve should be prepared for a semi-remote experience, where natural beauty comes with inherent challenges. Weather in the Madison Mountains can change rapidly, with sudden snow or storms even in summer months, so proper layering and navigation tools are essential. Wildlife encounters are likely, as grizzly bears, moose, and mountain lions inhabit the area, making bear spray and situational awareness critical. Since access is controlled by a private road requiring a permit, visitors must plan ahead to avoid being turned away. Trail users should expect rugged conditions with limited cell service, carrying sufficient food, water, and first aid. Hunters and camp participants are provided structured resources, but independent visitors need to approach the preserve as an off-grid zone where self-reliance and outdoor competency are key to both safety and enjoyment.
Montana is known for its great hunting opportunities, but it is also a dream come true for winter sports enthusiasts.
Getting There: Access to Jack Creek Preserve is unique, as it requires navigating the gated Jack Creek Road, owned and managed by Moonlight Basin. Visitors need a road pass to use this route, so planning with the preserve or affiliated organizations is essential. Those without permits can still reach the area by hiking along Jack Creek Trail (6317), which has a Forest Service easement ensuring public access throughout the year. The preserve lies between the communities of Ennis and Big Sky, making Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport the most convenient air gateway, followed by a scenic drive through the Madison Valley. Travelers should be prepared for limited signage and mountain driving conditions, especially in winter. For those attending educational programs, transportation details are often coordinated in advance, but independent explorers will need reliable vehicles and maps.
Local Perks: Beyond its rugged wilderness appeal, Jack Creek Preserve offers cultural and community connections that enrich the visit. The preserve lies within the ancestral homelands of the Salish, Shoshone-Bannock, Apsáalooke, Tséstho’e, Niitsitapi, Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla peoples, whose stewardship of the land is honored through ongoing conservation efforts. Modern visitors can engage in camps, workshops, and field schools designed to foster outdoor skills and environmental education. Hunting opportunities, offered in partnership with organizations like the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, emphasize the role of hunters in conservation. For those staying overnight, log cabins and structured camps provide a blend of comfort and rustic immersion. The nearby towns of Ennis and Big Sky add to the experience with small-town hospitality, western culture, and access to local Montana cuisine, making the preserve both an outdoor adventure and a cultural journey.
Pinnacles National Park, California
Tucked beneath ancient rock formations, a network of caves offers cool relief from the heat of the day.
Adventure Appeal: Pinnacles delivers a rare mix of serrated spires, condor country, and flashlight-in-hand cave crawling. Lace up for the High Peaks, where steps and handrails thread narrow ridgelines with thousand-foot perspectives over oak woodlands and chaparral. Duck into talus caves at Bear Gulch or Balconies where house-sized boulders roof cool passages and water voices echo after storms. Seasoned climbers find volcanic breccia with pockets and knobs, while wildlife watchers scan thermals for the unmistakable silhouette of California condors managed here with neighboring partners. Spring paints the slopes with wildflowers and raptor displays, winter brings clear air and quiet trails, and long golden evenings land softly on the spires.
Paths wind through narrow craigs, opening again to stunning views.
Survival Readiness: Heat is the big hazard. Summer and early fall often exceed 100 degrees with no water on trails, so plan at least one liter per person per hiking hour and favor dawn starts. Shoes with real tread matter because volcanic rubble rolls underfoot and cave floors can be slick. Carry a light for any cave route and check seasonal closures for bats and flood risk. Watch for poison oak on nearly every trail edge and rattlesnakes sunning on warm rock. Winter storms can swell creeks and trigger rockfall that lingers after rain. Cell coverage is spotty, so leave an itinerary and bring a paper map. Developed water is limited to visitor areas and the campground.
There are routes for all levels of difficulty, from well-marked trails to near-vertical technical climbs.
Getting There: There is no road through the park. Choose your side before you drive. From the Bay Area, the East Entrance comes via US 101 to CA 25 then CA 146 to the campground and visitor center. The West Entrance reaches trailheads above Chaparral from Soledad via CA 146, which narrows to one lane in places. East side trails are open 24 hours for day use, while the west gate operates daytime hours only. Expect heavy spring visitation with parking filling by mid-morning. A seasonal shuttle runs on the east side from the campground area during busy periods which helps bypass full lots near Bear Gulch. Use the official entrance coordinates when navigating.
Wildlife abounds in the park; the observant will have the opportunity to spot many species, like this Steller’s jay.
Local Perks: Base on the east for camping near the park store and showers or day trip from Salinas Valley towns with farm stands and simple taquerias. West side access pairs nicely with Soledad tasting rooms and Mission-era history along the valley. Birders can combine condor watching with wintering raptors over fields, while families enjoy short scenic loops like Moses Spring to the Bear Gulch Reservoir when caves are open. Spring wildflowers and fall grape harvest shape the vibe, yet even busy days quiet down by late afternoon as shadows climb the pinnacles. Clear nights favor stargazing once heat fades, and cool mornings carry woodpecker calls across chaparral and oak woodland. Bring patience during peak seasons and you will be rewarded.
Your Next Adventure Awaits
Have you been to Ennis, Montana, the caves at Pinnacles, or found another off-the-grid gem? We want to hear about it! Tag @RECOILOFFGRID on social media or send an email to offgrid@recoilweb.com with your stories and recommendations. Your adventure could be featured in our next issue!
Being able to rappel is an often overlooked and underappreciated skill. In a lot of scenarios, like in the mountains, burning buildings, clandestine operations or anywhere high up where things could go wrong fast, sometimes the best direction to go is down. However, falling is not an option.
The problem with rappelling kits — or abseiling as they call it across the pond — is that they are often large, expensive, and heavy. But what if a person had something that is the opposite of all these things? A rappelling kit that is practical in size, reasonable in cost and lighter than most other backcountry gear? Well, I’ve been on a mission to accomplish just that.
The kit packs into a Condor MOLLE water bottle pouch and includes two sling harnesses, three Black Diamond carabiners, a Sterling Technora escape rope, Sterling accessory cord (tied into large and small loops), a compact figure-eight descender, and a length of 550 paracord.
This DIY kit I created weighs less than 3 pounds, contains enough rope for a single-line 45-foot rappel, and costs roughly $250. For context, the average climbing rope is around $150. That is for about 65 feet of rope the width of a thumb. The average cost of a so-called “micro rappelling kit,” prebuilt and intended for military or first responder use, is often $600 to $1,000, depending on the setup. These kits are also usually designed for a specific application. An example of this would be escape kits (we will get to these later), which are oriented toward firefighters. The cost of these kits is in the high $500 range. They are built specifically to escape from building windows and not for much else. Plus, they are not retrievable from the bottom.
Kits like these are fine, but they tick only two of the three boxes I mentioned above: size, weight, and cost. My kit beat out all the commercial kits, not just in size, weight, and cost, but in every possible category.
The Plan
As someone who has been climbing for many years, and an avid outdoorsman and survivalist, possessing something like Batman’s toolbelt is an appealing prospect. (Batman was always able to get himself out of any situation.) You might not be able to carry everything Batman strapped to his belt, but a kit like this — lightweight, fast to deploy, and practical — is within reach, and one I think even Batman would be proud of.
Regarding climbing and rope systems, the standard measurement is the Kilonewton (kN). This is weight measured in a quick loading session, such as a fall. However, it also applies statically (under consistent load). In rescue, the safety margin is often 10:1, meaning a system must be built to withstand over 10 times the load intended to be put into it. That really is overkill, but unlike many kits on the market, I wanted to beat that standard as well and build my system as close to that standard as possible.
To rappel, a person needs five things: a descending device, carabiners, a harness, a rope and an anchor. First, a person needs a device to descend to the ground with, usually by creating friction. Second, a person needs devices that create attachment points, such as carabiners. Third, a person needs the ability to attach him or herself to the system. Fourth, a person needs a rope, cord or wire to travel down as the medium of travel (other than the air). Finally, a person needs the ability to attach the rope to the top. This kit contains all of these essential pieces to affect a rappel.
Kilonewtons
kN, or Kilonewtons, are the standard measurement in climbing. They symbolize 1,000 newtons of force and are used because they measure the peak load applied to equipment during a fall. A newton is equivalent to the force required to accelerate one kilogram of mass one meter per second, squared.
The Descender
The Micro-Rappel kit uses a micro rescue figure eight, certified to hold 30kN. The one shown is an Amazon special, $17, but I would recommend the Rock Exotica MiniEight. The only problem with the Rock Exotica is this would drop the final minimum breaking strength (MBS) estimate because it is “only” rated to 14kN. For those nervous, that is still plenty.
Most descending gear has trouble using smaller ropes. This is because small ropes create less friction in the device. Since these pieces of equipment are designed for standard rope widths, the utilization of a figure eight or similar tool was necessitated. These devices are often used by canyoneers and rescue teams because friction can be added on the fly, during a rappel. They also seem to work better with smaller and slicker rope, even when the rope is wet.
The Carabiners
The climbing carabiners I used in the kit come with the standard climbing carabiner rating of around 25kN. Considering that a person in a system is generalized to be 1kN, or around 224 pounds (remember that number for our 10:1 comparison later), 25kN is more than enough. I went with the tried-and-true Black Diamond HotForge Screwgate light-weight carabiners. These are CE EN 12275 certified to 24kN, horizontally when they are closed. They are UIAA confirmed to be 25kN.
Equipment ratings are important to understand when building a kit like this, or when purchasing any gear. In the world of climbers, arborists, and alpinists the standard rating system for gear is the UIAA (International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation). Gear with a UIAA certification that is up to date means that the specific equipment has passed tests that meet safety standards set by UIAA. Each individual product line must pass, and ratings do expire. These ratings confirm what levels the manufacturers claim their equipment to test at. Products that are certified can be searched on the UIAA website.
The Harness
The second bulkiest part of a rope system is the harness, and I needed one that would fold up super small into the kit. To do this, I employ a nifty quick-fitting hasty-field-harness technique, utilizing about 11 feet of tubular webbing tied into a loop with a backup enforced water knot. Rock-N-Rescue certifies their tubular webbing at about 17kN. When doubled up, that is often the strongest anchor a person can create, getting up to almost 40kN.
The water knot is the strongest and simplest way to tie webbing end to end or around an anchor. Tie a loose overhand in one end, then thread the other end back through, tracing the knot. Cinch it tight, keeping both strands flat. Finish with safety overhands on each tail for added security and a clean look.
This hasty field harness is fast to set up and comfortable to wear. Start with a sling of tubular webbing held in front. Bite one end to free your hands, then run the bottom of the sling between your legs (avoiding a painful cross-through for men). Bring each side around your waist so a single strand rests across your lower back. Join the two waist loops in front, split the bite held in your teeth, and thread each side through the waist loops. Release the bite and pull the new loops together to form the tie-in point. Clip in with a carabiner or basket hitch, and the harness is secure under tension.
Water Knot
Water knots are used specifically for flat webbing or tubular material. They can be used to create gear loops, building anchors, and other outdoor and camping tasks. When using a water knot, it is essential to leave long, 3- to 6-inch tails on both ends to prevent slipping.
ope is not only the weakest point, but the bulkiest item in most rope systems. To reduce bulk, the kit needed a small rope, but that would inevitably make it even more vulnerable. Smaller ropes are weaker and less durable under tension. There were two options: dynamic and static. In the climbing rope world, these two varieties translate to stretchy rope and non-stretchy rope, respectively. Climbers use dynamic rope because it stretches during a fall, lessening the forces on the climber.
Dynamic ropes are rated weaker than static ropes since they are designed to spread all the force across their length. This means the longer the fall, the less force is present in the entire system, and the rating does not need to be that high. While this is good for a high wall climber, it also makes rappelling and working statically on a rope more difficult. It can be frustrating to rappel free hanging, especially if it stretches under tension — it tends to bounce. It also means that, once at the bottom, the user has difficulty getting their equipment to disengage the rope. That rope will spring back up into the air as it tries to return to its regular length. None of these are good qualities. For the Micro-Rappel kit, static was the better option: stronger and with less stretch.
After clipping in, toss the bag down after the main rope. The 550 cord will pay out as it falls, laying neatly in the rappel path. While descending, be prepared to clear the cord from any branches or obstacles it snagged on the way down.
The challenge was finding a rope small enough to fit in a sock, yet strong and durable enough to meet safety standards. Standard 6mm accessory cord, rated at only 7–8kN, was inadequate for single-line rappels — usable in a pinch, but far from reliable. Doubling it met strength requirements but cut range and bulked the kit. The breakthrough came from firefighter escape systems, which use advanced materials like Technora, a Kevlar variant that is incredibly strong, heat resistant, and abrasion resistant. Technora ropes are two to three times stronger than nylon of larger size, making them ideal for this kit. I eventually found a 6mm, 50-foot Sterling Technora rope rated at 21 kN, perfect for compact carry and far stronger than accessory cord. To round out the kit, I added an extended rappel system with a loop of standard 6mm cord, basket hitched through the harness, for comfort and stability during rappels with a heavy pack.
Solving the retrieving conundrum was easy. 550 paracord would be super slim and easily used as a pull cord. The only weight it would ever be put under was pulling down the top end of the rope. It is also cheap.
To use the pull cord, I pull the coiled main rope out, wrap it around something as my anchor, then throw the rope down. Then, I hook the end of the 550 cord to the carabiner in the anchor and throw the bag containing the cord down. At the bottom, I just pull the line, and it will carry the carabiner and the rope down with it.
550 paracord is often advertised as (hypothetically) holding 550 pounds. In the case of climbing, there is a reason kN is used, instead of pounds. The actual weight on equipment in a system multiplies significantly when any velocity is added. 550 may hold a person’s weight statically (hanging still), but if a person hops on the cord, it can snap. As a pull cord, there is no weight, other than pulling the system from the other end. 550 pounds are usually more than enough to pull free a blocking knot at the top, from the bottom.
Harness Setup
Having a secure harness is of the utmost importance in regards to safety. If you feel uncertain about any of these steps, reach out to your local climbing community for proper hands-on instruction.
For the anchor, the kit uses the rope itself in a “beaner-block” technique, to save space and weight, and allow retrieval of the line, at the cost of strength. This technique is where the top end of the rope is tied to a carabiner and wrapped around the object being used as an anchor, whatever it is. Then, the carabiner is clipped back to the rope, creating a tightening loop, or slipknot, around the anchor. By tying the paracord to the carabiner, I could use the line to pull the rope down from the bottom.
One end of the paracord is tied inside the bag through the drain hole, while the other is finished with a figure eight knot.
Technora is an aramid fiber, meaning it is highly heat resistant; it does not melt together with itself. Therefore, ropes made with it should never be cut to length unless the user knows how to properly seal the ends. If the rope is not properly sealed, or “whipped,” the core and the sheath of the rope can slip. This can result in reduced strength and durability of the rope, and potentially failure to function as advertised.
The cord is then “coiled” into the bag — stuffed in loosely by handfuls — until fully packed. The free end with the knot is clipped to the anchor carabiner.
This kit also utilizes a small loop of that accessory cord as a prusik. Prusiks are loops of cord, or rope, usually thinner than the actual climbing or rappelling rope being used. These range from a foot or so in length, to several feet, and are basically climbing multi-tools. I used this for a “safety,” or a third hand, under the rappelling device. As the prusik isn’t weight bearing, it doesn’t factor into our final safety ratio calculations.
To retrieve the rope from the bottom, the paracord is pulled, from the bag end.
Bringing It Together
Considering all the ratings in the system, the last thing to do was to look at every piece, find the weakest link, then divide to find my safety ratio. For those following along at home, the accessory cord is easily the weakest. However, I said I doubled this up and utilized a basket hitch. Mathematically, this tends to almost double the strength of the cord, bringing the strength to about 16kN, the last number in my system. This means that the kit’s technical weakest point (other than the knots) is about 16kN. 16 divided by 1 is 16. I was not very good at math in school, but to me that sounds like a 16:1 safety ratio. Better than the standard 10:1. I like those odds.
There are a few important considerations to note after assembling this kit. First, many ropes lose significant strength at the knot, and Technora is especially prone to this — sometimes by as much as 40 percent. Factoring that in, the rope’s strength drops to around 10–11kN, still 10 to 11 times the expected load.
It may take some force to break the anchor loop free from being cinched onto the tree or solid point at the top.
Second, this is a homemade kit built from individually sourced parts. Prices, availability, and setup may vary, so anyone attempting a similar build should research their gear carefully, understand its limitations, and consider the situations in which they expect to use it. Anchor systems are another variable. In urban settings, investing in a firefighter-style anchor hook designed for doorjambs or window corners may be worthwhile. Rope length is also critical: even if the rappel itself is less than 45 feet, additional rope may be needed to secure anchors around solid structures or to reach an ideal tie-off point.
I also added a spare harness to the kit so I can belay or lower another person in an emergency. In that case, my own harness would serve as the anchor. Rescue knots such as the munter-mule-overhand are useful here, since they allow you to lock off and then lower a person from a carabiner or a descender. Using the same rappel gear, I can clip someone else into the system for lowering, or reconfigure it mid-descent into a 3:1 haul system to raise a person or heavy gear.
For carrying the kit, I found a Condor MOLLE water bottle pouch worked perfectly. It’s roomy enough to avoid cramming gear inside, includes a drain hole at the bottom, and with a length of 550 cord tied off through the hole, it doubles as a throw bag.
Lastly, I wanted extra durability for the rope. Since this is an emergency kit that won’t see frequent use, I still needed peace of mind for when it is called upon. A 6-foot length of spare tubular webbing solved that problem. By threading the rope through the webbing, I created a movable protective sheath that can be slid into place over edges or rough surfaces, adding an extra barrier where abrasion is most likely.
The Prusik Knot
The prusik knot is an adjustable hitch that grips the rope, often used as a “third hand” for rappelling. To tie it, wrap a loop of cord around the rope two or three times, passing it through itself each time. More wraps create more friction. Cinch and dress the knot, then clip it with a carabiner. When attached below the descender, it locks the rope if the rappeler goes hands-free.
The basket hitch is one of the simplest and strongest climbing hitches, since it uses no knots beyond the sling ends. To tie it, pass the sling through the harness tie-in point and clip both ends into a carabiner.
Basket Hitch – Step 1Basket Hitch – Step 2
The Figure-Eight Knot
The figure-eight knot is the standard tie-in knot for climbing, used to secure a rope to carabiners or harness points. To tie it, form a bight, wrap it around itself, and pass the end back through the loop. Cinch and dress the knot for maximum strength. I use it to attach the rope to the anchor carabiner.
On the first sleepy Saturday of 2026, the world woke up to news that was surprising if not totally unexpected. Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and his wife were captured in a daring overnight raid into that nation’s capital, executed by US military and law enforcement personnel following a weeks-long buildup of American power in the region.
As we write this, the Maduros are being escorted to New York per a recently unsealed indictment filed with the US Justice Department.
While the ripple effects of this maneuver are bound to be complex and polarizing, it is—from a technical and tactical standpoint—worth taking some time to examine what goes into planning and executing an operation like this, the equivalent of geopolitical open-heart surgery.
The decision to simply “cut the head off the snake” offers some advantages over a large-scale invasion but requires precise planning and bold execution. Tying this to a criminal charge meant integrating elements of the Justice Department, in this case the DEA, with the military elements in charge of conducting the raid.
Venezuela marked in red
It also required a premium on bringing the Maduros out alive to face their charges, as opposed to a counterterrorism operation under traditional military rules of engagement which may not require capture. Having said that, there is some preliminary information circulating that indicates Trump left open the option of killing Maduro, if the situation required.
Bringing in a fugitive, regardless of where they are, mandates that you know a few key pieces of information. Foremost among them is where your target will be when you intend to pick them up. In the case of a criminal here in the US, law enforcement establishes known associates and familiar hangouts, often utilizing a combination of surveillance techniques from tracking cell phones to old-school stakeouts to identify routines and patterns-of-life. This allows officers and agents to determine the best place to make an arrest.
Black Hawk from the 160th SOAR
But, when targeting foreign heads of state, the process is exponentially more complicated. There are well-documented cases in recent history of world leaders using body doubles, secret bunkers, and large contingents of armed guards to protect themselves. This requires an intensive intelligence effort leaning heavily on a combination of strategic intelligence assets.
Examples of this include satellite imagery, electronic surveillance of cellular and digital activity, drone flyovers for real-time photo and video collection, and we suspect heavy use of human informants from within Maduro’s inner circle.
But mission success requires more than getting your target. It requires protecting your own forces in the process. An airborne incursion is usually the fastest way to reach your objective. Moving overland on foot or in vehicles through hostile terrain equates to an increased risk of exposure or capture for the raid team. Again, maximum information is key. In military parlance, the process is referred to as IPB – Intelligence Preparation of the Battlespace.
Intelligence Preparation of the Battlespace (IPB)
Identify target patterns of life
Validate location using multi-source intelligence
Assess terrain, airspace, and weather constraints
Identify enemy air defense and early warning systems
Establish abort criteria and contingency plans
The multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima transported Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro back to the USA
The IPB process is a methodical analysis of myriad planning factors. Some of these might be obvious, such as the number of enemy soldiers in an area, or what kind of weapons they have. But operational planning requires knowing far more than just the enemy. Are there high mountain peaks that helicopters will have to account for in their flight plan? How much moonlight will there be – enough to illuminate ships on the water or aircraft in the night sky?
Once a rigorous intelligence process has been completed, surgical precision is paramount during the mission itself. In this case, helicopters carrying special operators were required to approach over open water to reach a coastal city equipped with anti-aircraft weapons.
This posed a significant risk to the raid force that was mitigated by a multi-phase execution prioritizing the destruction of those anti-aircraft batteries. Electronic warfare planes flying overhead could disrupt RADAR, radios, and other electronic warning equipment, allowing a package of strike aircraft to get close enough to physically destroy anti-aircraft sites. This SEAD/DEAD mission would be tasked with destroying anything that could either shoot at or ‘see’ approaching helicopters.
Once the AA weapons themselves are neutralized, helicopters carrying the raid team, blocking force (to secure the ground around the target building), and/or quick reaction force (backup for the raid team if they encounter heavy resistance) could reach the target location, hit the ground, and apprehend the Maduros.
It is likely that the raid team was receiving real-time intelligence updates in the helicopter while en route to the target location, with parameters established to abort the operation, or use an alternate plan, if the situation changed substantially during the approach.
There are multiple fine details of the Venezuela plan and its execution that we may never find out. But it’s clear to see that months of planning and intelligence collection, along with the work of hundreds-if-not-thousands of highly skilled Americans in the military and intelligence community, enabled an incredibly bold, seemingly smooth operation that single-handedly changed the course of a country in several hours without any loss of American life reported at time of writing.
This operation puts a fine point on exactly what’s possible when the right people and the right technology are unified by an effective plan carried out with precision and daring.
Old ammo cans are the Tupperware of the emergency preparedness world. Although they were originally intended to carry loose ammunition or machine gun belts, we’ve seen these inexpensive stamped steel boxes repurposed to contain everything from tools and camp cooking utensils to fishing tackle, portable radios, and medical gear. Some DIYers even outfit them with batteries and USB ports to function as a portable charging station, or with speakers to serve as a boombox. Washington-based gear company Ignik Outdoors came up with their own ammo can contraption — a portable propane fire pit called the Ignik FireCan — and has continued to develop and upgrade it with some clever features.
FireCan: Bringing the Heat
The concept of converting an ammo can into a mini propane fire pit is nothing new. If you’re handy, you can make one by drilling a hole in the side of an ammo can, inserting a capped piece of pipe with some smaller holes drilled in it, and adding a fitting on the end to attach a propane tank. You can buy these cans in the form of DIY kits or complete units from a variety of vendors. You can also make a shotgun with some pipe, a roofing nail, and a 2×4 from the hardware store… but a Beretta 1301 it ain’t.
The moral of the story is that DIY projects are fun and can save you some money, but sometimes it’s preferable to have a thoughtfully-engineered product with added features and quality-of-life improvements. Such is the case for the Ignik FireCan, especially its Deluxe package.
Ignik’s standard FireCan is a powdercoated steel can with mesh grates cut into each side to increase airflow, heat transmission, and visibility of the flames. It also has heat-resistant silicone carry handles and four folding legs that lift the can off the ground, reducing the risk of your fire scorching the ground or spreading out of control. Rather than a basic screw-on propane connector, it has a locking quick-release fitting and includes a matching 5-foot hose with adjustable regulator. After removing the can’s lid and unfolding its legs, just connect the regulator to your propane tank (or one of Ignik’s convenient Gas Growlers — more on that later), click the other end onto your FireCan, light it through the included access hole, and enjoy your portable heat source.
For more radiant heat, you can fill the can with some fire rocks to increase its thermal mass. Ignik offers tumbled lava rocks (5 pounds) as well as ultra-lightweight ceramic “Moon Rocks” (1 pound) that can be used to fill your FireCan. Each of these also varies the flame pattern to create a more natural fire pit experience, as opposed to the propane burner’s symmetrical jets.
A Note About Fire Restrictions I live in wildfire country, and it’s normal for the local forestry service to issue bans on open campfires during the dry months. This is a major bummer for anyone who’s planning a camping trip, because sitting around an LED lantern doesn’t have the same appeal as sitting around a warm fire. Thankfully, there are usually exemptions for propane-fueled fire pits and stoves — this means that the FireCan is one of the few ways to safely and legally have a fire at the campsite during wildfire season. Check your local laws to see if this is also true in your area, but if it is, it’s a major selling point for the FireCan (and other propane fire pits).
The FireCan Deluxe
Recently, Ignik introduced the FireCan Deluxe, which improves upon the regular FireCan in several areas. The first thing you’ll notice is its brushed silver finish, which indicates stainless steel construction. This should be more corrosion-resistant than the black powdercoated carbon steel, even if it gets a little scratched and banged up over time. But its biggest difference is revealed when you open the lid.
Beneath its lid, the FireCan Deluxe features a removable grill insert that’s constructed from stamped stainless steel. Its inner surface is ramped and slotted to funnel drippings down gutters and into a removable drip tray that sits in a slot at the base of the unit. Four hooks in the corners of the grill insert hold a 5 by 10-inch rectangular wire grill — the perfect size for hotdogs, hamburgers, chicken breasts, veggies, and other small items. Granted, you won’t be making a meal for the whole family on this setup, but it’s perfect for cooking a quick meal for one or two people.
Tony Peel doesn’t look like your typical radio operator. No uniform, no government badge, just a guy who knows his stuff. He’s the founder of Wyoming Survival, a former survival instructor, a blacksmith, and a licensed General HAM operator. That last bit matters because, in the world of radio communications, a General HAM license is your gateway to operating on high-frequency (HF) bands — a skillset that stretches far beyond the limits of the popular Baofeng handheld radios many preppers stash in their bug-out bags.
On day one of the HF Operations class, Peel wasted no time breaking down the fundamentals, starting with a question: What is HF? Short for “high frequency,” it refers to the spectrum of radio frequencies between 3 and 30 MHz. Unlike UHF and VHF radios, which require line-of-sight to communicate and often struggle through dense vegetation, HF can reach across continents. With the right setup, it’s entirely possible to connect with someone 5,000 miles away. That’s not just theoretical, it’s a reality for pilots, NGOs, military units, and even banks that use HF for secure, long-distance communication.
Most handheld radios, like the Baofeng, operate on UHF and VHF bands. If you’ve used one before, you’ve probably noticed that getting any kind of range without a clear line of sight is a struggle. Trees, hills, and buildings devour those signals, and if you’re lucky, you might hit one mile without special gear. With a jungle antenna, a specialty setup for denser environments, you can push it to two miles, but that’s still a far cry from the kind of distance HF is capable of. Peel laid it out bluntly, HF isn’t just different; it’s a whole new ballgame.
HF Radio setups come in many flavors — from base stations that require more permanent fixed positions, to some rigs as small as a deck of cards. Each with their own strengths and weaknesses.
Understanding the Waves
When you key the mic on an HF rig, it sends out a frequency that propagates as a wave. Imagine ripples spreading out in water. The space between the peaks of those ripples is the wavelength. On higher frequencies, the peaks are closer together, and on lower frequencies, they spread out. This matters because antennas are built to match those wavelengths, specifically, half-wavelength antennas for optimal transmission.
Peel dove into how HF propagates and explained the difference between ground wave versus sky wave. While ground wave travels along the Earth’s surface, sky wave bounces off the ionosphere, an atmospheric layer charged by the sun. This is where HF shines. Its signal can reflect off the sky and hit far-flung locations, sometimes across entire continents. That’s the kind of range that makes HF indispensable when infrastructure becomes inoperable.
A student deciphers a transmission utilizing a one-time pad key.
Solar Maximum & the Ionosphere
The ionosphere is key to HF operations. It’s made up of four main layers: D, E, F1, and F2. During the day, all four layers are active, but at night only D and F2 remain. That shift impacts how far your signal travels and which frequencies work best. Peel also explained the role of the solar maximum, an 11-year cycle where sunspots pepper the surface of the sun, charging up the ionosphere and boosting radio propagation. During this period, HF signals reach farther and with more consistency. But it’s a double-edged sword. Solar flares, those massive bursts of energy from the sun, can disrupt communications entirely, almost like someone flipping the off switch.
Despite the damage of this coax cable, it is still more than capable of sending and receiving HF transmissions.
The 80- to 40-meter bands are where things get really interesting. These frequencies are the most stable and reliable, especially once the solar maximum wanes. Peel pointed out that while the 40m band typically gets you around 700 miles during the day, it can stretch to 1,500 to 2,000 miles at night. For anyone relying on HF for critical communication, understanding these cycles is important survival knowledge.
Tony Peel illustrates how radio frequencies can be bounced off the ionosphere to achieve incredibly far transmission distances.
Band Breakdown & NVIS
Peel also covered the different HF bands:
80m Band: Ideal for nighttime communication
40m Band: Great for daytime local communication and nighttime long-distance (DX) communication
20m Band: The go-to for long-distance (DX) communication
He then explained Near Vertical Incident Skywave (NVIS), a method that uses steep takeoff angles to bounce signals almost straight up and back down, perfect for regional communication. NVIS works on the 40m band during the day and the 80m band at night. It requires a horizontal antenna placed low to the ground, sometimes directly on it. Inverted V antennas also work for this setup. To find the right frequency for NVIS, Peel recommended using prop.kc2g.com.
Peel also reminded the class that HF isn’t your cell phone; there’s no trillion-dollar infrastructure guaranteeing you’ll get through. It’s just you, your radio, and the atmosphere.
By using a device called an antenna analyzer, the antenna can be shortened or lengthened, fine tuning it for whichever band is being used for transmission.
Setting Up for Success
Before setting up our own NVIS system and testing it out, we went over the gear required to make HF work:
Transceiver: Japanese-made models are recommended. A 100W transceiver with MARS modification can operate during solar minimums. Built-in tuners and sound card interfaces are a must.
Antenna: Di-pole antennas are the standard. Multi-band options exist, but a simple dipole is often the most effective. Common configurations include inverted V, upside-down L, and NVIS.
Coax Cable: Less than 100 feet of 50-ohm cable is ideal.
Tuner: Essential for matching your antenna to the radio
Power Source: 12-volt systems, solar with a charge controller, or battery with an inverter
Grounding: Critical for stability and safety
Lightning Arrestor: Installs between antenna and coax to prevent damage
SWR Meter: Used to measure signal efficiency
Midway through day one, the class tuned into the Noontime Net, checking in with call signs and running tests. Digital versus SSB communication was also covered. Digital is more reliable, offering encrypted messaging, low power consumption, and even inbox-style messaging. Peel demonstrated WinLink for sending texts and weather reports, VARAC for mesh networking, and FLDIGI for real-time chat and Morse code translation.
Insulated wire is being measured to the appropriate antenna length.
The day wrapped up with a hands-on exercise, setting up radios, deploying antennas, and sending digital messages across the airwaves. The class got a taste of SOTA (Summits on the Air) and POTA (Parks on the Air), two international amateur radio programs designed to push the limits of field-based HF communication.
Stealth, Security & the Dark Side of HF
The second day opened with a discussion on tactical communications planning. For the uninitiated, this means creating a step-by-step guide for how a team or group will communicate during operations, emergencies, or grid-down events. It outlines which frequencies to use, when to switch channels, call signs, fallback plans, and how to keep messages clear but secure. Without one, teams risk confusion, missed messages, and potentially dangerous delays.
HF has what Peel called a “dark side.” Anyone listening on the same band can hear your transmission. That makes security a real concern, especially if you’re passing sensitive information. Encryption might seem like the obvious answer, but it’s illegal on amateur bands in most countries, including the United States. That’s because the amateur radio service is meant to be open and non-commercial. Only licensed entities, like businesses or government agencies, can legally encrypt their transmissions.
Even if encryption were legal, there’s another hurdle: the key. Encryption only works if everyone has the same key, and if that key is compromised, your messages might as well be public.
One workaround is the one-time pad — an old-school cryptographic method invented in the early 1900s and still considered unbreakable if used correctly. It involves pairing your message with a random key that is used only once and then destroyed. Each letter or character in the message is shifted by a corresponding character in the key. Without that exact key, deciphering the message is virtually impossible. But the catch remains, both sender and receiver must have matching pads ahead of time.
Peel also mentioned PTE (Paranoid Text Encryption), a software tool that can encrypt text files on a separate device before they’re sent over radio. While still operating in the legal gray area on HAM bands, it’s a tool worth knowing for emergency use.
Many metallic wires can be used as an antenna, including this scrap electrical wire taped to the frayed end of a coax cable.
From a hardware perspective, antenna placement was another key topic. An HF antenna should be oriented broadside to the direction you want to transmit or receive. This positioning aligns with how radio waves radiate, strongest perpendicular to the wire, weakest off the ends. The class also covered the Wilderness Protocol, a practice where radio operators periodically monitor emergency frequencies (especially at the top of each hour) to give lost or stranded individuals a chance to reach help. It’s a grassroots system, not a formal emergency service, but can be a lifesaver when cell towers are far away. Another critical point, without specialized gear, you can’t determine where an HF signal is coming from. That’s where direction-finding equipment comes in. Peel introduced tools like the KrakenSDR, a multi-antenna software-defined radio that triangulates signals based on time-difference of arrival. There are also simpler setups using rotating directional antennas or signal-strength meters, but these require skill, space, and patience.
Then came the build. We were shown how almost any metal wire — speaker wire, house wire, even barbed wire — can be used to make a functioning antenna. The class assembled a half-wave antenna, which is cut to half the wavelength of the frequency you’re using. This length allows the antenna to resonate efficiently, sending out a stronger, clearer signal. Power conservation was also emphasized. Transmitting at high power makes you easier to locate via direction-finding. Running at the lowest effective wattage helps you stay off the radar. And as for antenna insulators? Peel debunked the myth that you need ceramic or fancy gear. Dry paracord works just fine.
The day ended with a practical test: sending and receiving messages between two groups on opposite sides of a mountain in Wyoming. One group used a traditional HF radio and antenna. The other used what Peel called “disaster wire,” which in our case was scraps of electric fence strung up with a frayed coax cable. Using NVIS, the groups successfully transmitted voice and digital messages over a 15-mile stretch of terrain. No cell service. No towers. Just raw capability.
Final Thoughts
Although the idea of operating an HF radio can seem intimidating, with a knowledgeable instructor like Peel, the process turns out to be pretty straightforward. It’s also reassuring to know that the ability to communicate is only a few steps away. This class brought together a wide range of students — from licensed radio operators looking to fine-tune their setups to complete newcomers like myself. Every one of us walked away with new skills and a better understanding of how radios can be used effectively.
Venturing out at the peak of the winter season can bring many challenges that we do not encounter in warmer conditions. Freezing temperatures bring snow and ice that can make navigating a familiar landscape challenging and turn our daily commute into a dangerous situation if we are not prepared. Gearing up involves ensuring we have appropriate clothing, outerwear, and footwear – beyond ensuring our on-body gear is keeping us safe, we also need to ensure our Get Home Bag is ready to handle the harsh winter conditions.
Preparing for Winter Survival
A get home bag is designed to provide all the tools and supplies you will need to get back to a secure location. The challenge of building a Get Home Bag is finding the appropriate balance of gear and weight. Unlike a Bug Out Bag, which is designed for 3 or more days away from home, a Get Home Bag should contain about 24 hours of supplies. During warming seasons keeping your Get Home Bag light and nimble is simple, but the harsh weather and freezing temperatures of winter leads to the need for additional items – leading to a heavier bag.
While many will not be concerned about extra weight in their Get Home Bag if they are not traveling on foot – wintery conditions increase the likelihood we may have to abandon our vehicle and move on foot. Snow and ice will already make traveling on foot more difficult, adding a heavy pack to the mix can be a recipe for disaster.
Mitigating this challenge is a two-part process. Smart packing and making use of multi-purpose items can help reduce weight and choosing a bag that helps safely manage additional weight.
Vanquest IBEX-26 Features
Vanquest is a small U.S. based company that specializes in making top quality soft goods including backpacks, slings bags, and organization pouches. Beyond having a passion for excellent craftsmanship, each piece of gear Vanquest designs has a goal of providing solutions for common gear hauling problems. The IBEX series is a perfect example of the Vanquest ethos.
The IBEX series is available in a 26 and 35-liter options – for the Get Home Bag I opted for the 26-liter option to avoid over packing. At first glance the IBEX looks similar to many hiking style packs with its tall narrow design, waist belt, and numerous external gear mounting options. This design style is ideal for safely managing a heavier pack as the weight is better distributed and the hip belt allows the weight of the pack to be taken off your shoulders and moved to stronger muscles groups in your hips and legs. The shift in weight off your shoulders improves balance, reduces fatigue, and decreases the likelihood of muscle strain injuries. Like high quality hiking packs, the IBEX has excellent padding on the straps and a stiff but breathable back for structure and comfort.
What makes the Vanquest IBEX unique is that it successfully blends the comfort and safety of a well-designed hiking pack with the toughness and organizational benefits often found in tactical style packs. Unlike traditional hiking packs which employ a thin lightweight nylon, the IBEX is primarily built with ultra durable Cordura nylon that is both wear and tear resistant. The external Molle Panels are made from Hypalon which is resistant to the elements, continuous UV rays, and chemicals. Vanquest uses high quality YKK zippers paired with Spartan zipper pulls that make rapidly opening or closing the pack easy in high stress situations.
In addition to the Molle panels that pouches or gear can be lashed to, the exterior offers two pockets on either side that can house quick access items and even expand to fit larger items. The pockets contain hook and loop panels where optional accessory pouches can be added. The top of the pack offers one large pocket that also can provide access to the main compartment without having to unzipper the whole pack. The exterior also offers a number of attachment points that can be used to lash on items like trekking poles and hatchets.
The main compartment offers two opaque zipper compartments, a back pocket that can easily fit a large laptop or water bladder, and molle/hook and loop attachment points for additional organization pouches.
Packing Out a Winter Get Home Bag
Many of the items stored in your winter get home bag will be valuable in any season, though some items may require special consideration during freezing winter temperatures. In addition to survival basics additional items will need to be included to help keep you safe in the harsh winter weather. Let’s break down each of the categories to demonstrate where special considerations and additions may be required.
Fire
The ability to make fire is vital in most survival situations. Fire serves as a means of cooking food, boiling water, and producing heat. Fire can also be used to help signal for help and raise morale. In the winter months, producing heat if stuck outdoors is a top priority, and some special consideration is needed when packing fire starting equipment for the winter. Standard lighters will not always work as well in the extreme cold. Electronic lighters can be an acceptable alternative, but batteries will also deplete faster in cold environments. We must also consider the high levels of moisture from snow especially if it has begun melting.
Man made tinder and chemical tinder will burn hot even when wet. Chemical tinder options can burn very hot and may aid in getting wet wood burning if no dry wood is available.
When searching for wood in snow covered areas it is best to try to find dead wood that is still attached to standing trees and off the ground as they are likely to be less moist then wood found on the ground.
Another option is to soak cotton balls in WD-40 as they will be flammable and could double as lubricant for zippers and small tools. Learning to use a ferrocerium rod is especially valuable in cold and wet environments as it will still produce sparks in those conditions.
Water
Water is something we can’t go without for very long. When it comes to dehydration, many people immediately think of hot climates, but dehydration is as much of a threat in the winter as it is in the summer. The coats and heavy clothing we wear to shelter us from the harsh winter elements can also cause us to sweat once we start exerting ourselves, which can cause rapid water loss if we are not careful.
Stored water can freeze in our packs if exposed to freezing temperatures so it is best not to leave your Get Home Bag in your vehicle and when traveling outdoors on foot the water should be packed closest to your body to help prevent freezing.
Wild water sources can be limited in the winter and even if running water is found it is not as simple as bottling it and drinking it. Even in cold temperatures water can be home to pathogens that can make us sick, purification or disinfection methods such as boiling, chemical treatments, or filters should be used. If carry a portable water filter it is important to know if it is rated for freezing temperatures.
Drinking cold water can also contribute to rapidly cooling our core increasing the threat of hypothermia. Snow or ice should never be consumed for hydration for the same reasons cold water should not be directly consumed.
Shelter
Having shelter or carrying the items you need to make a shelter is an important addition to any survival kit. In the winter we may be wearing heavier clothing, but sheltering ourselves from wind, snow, and freezing rain can help extend our ability to survive outdoors longer.
In the winter we need to account for higher winds and the weight of snow and ice when building a shelter. This means heavy duty tarps may be a better option than something thin. Ensure tarp materials that won’t absorb moisture that can result in cold water dripping into your shelter as the interior area warms up.
Keeping your body off the cold ground is also essential so plan on carry or having the ability to create insulated ground cover.
Clothing
In the winter we should be dressing appropriately even for a short excursion away from home because things happen, and you don’t want to be stuck out in the cold without proper protection from the elements. It is also vital to carry a spare set of dry clothes with you.
Wet clothing is a major contributor to hypothermia. If you fall into a body of water or your clothing becomes saturated with water or sweat, getting into fresh dry clothes can keep you alive!
Wool is an ideal material for winter use as it can keep you warm even when wet. While it is still best to get dry clothing on, if there is no additional dry clothing wool is a better option than cotton.
Keeping your spare clothing dry is important while your pack may be water resistant but adding an additional layer of protection like a dry bag or even a tightly tied trash bad can help ensure clothing stays dry.
Navigation
Snow can make navigating more difficult. Even a familiar area can appear alien when it is covered in snow, especially areas that are less traveled. Paths and trails become impossible to see, and familiar landmarks can be obscured by snow cover.
Having and knowing how to use a compass can help give you a sense of direction while on the move. A standalone GPS unit can help guide you to snow covered paths or trails, but like all electronics can suffer from faster battery depletion in the cold. If relying on electronics always carry back up power and keep electronics and back up batteries as close to your body as possible to reduce battery drain from the cold.
Light
A method of light production is something that everyone should have available in their everyday survival kit. Light is even more important for extended emergencies. One advantage to snow is that it is light reflective, allowing better visibility from both synthetic light sources and the moon at night.
When considering light sources we must account for cold weather battery drain. Lights with alternate color modes beyond just white can help reduce glare from snow and preserve natural night vision
Headlamps can be beneficial to produce handsfree light allowing you to keep your hands in your pockets for warmth or utilize other tools.
Tools
Basic tools can make a big difference in survival situations and play an important role in our survival kits. Knives, multi-tools, saws, hatchets and axes can serve just as well in the winter as they do in the warmer months.
When picking tools for winter survival we should consider tools we can effectively use with gloves on. If we must take our gloves off to use a tool, keep in mind that metal handles can get very cold if exposed to the elements so it’s best to pick tools with polymer or wood handles.
Food
Food provides valuable fuel to keep our bodies moving. In the cold months we can see a significant increase in caloric burn to help keep our bodies warm so having access to calories is important.
Wild food sources may be abundant in the warm months, but they can become scarce in the winter. Packing shelf stable food items that are less sensitive to freezing can be beneficial. Like water food items should be stored closest to your body to prevent freezing.
Self Defense
Having something to defend yourself in an emergency is important. Keep in mind that some of these tools may be affected by freezing temperatures.
Pepper Spray can be less effective in freezing temperatures, have diminished spray patterns, and canisters can be damaged or rupture in extreme cold temperatures. Keeping your pepper spray close to your body can keep it functional. Firearms can also be damaged or have performance issues with prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures. Proper lubrication and maintenance beforehand can reduce both corrosion and performance issues.
First Aid and Medical
Basic first aid items to treat a minor injury are a must for any survival kit. Additional items to cover more severe injuries can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency but only have value with the proper training to use them.
Many disinfectants, like alcohol pads can double as a fire starter in an emergency. Medications, especially liquids can be susceptible to reduced effects if exposed to the cold for extended periods of time.
Bleeding control is essential when facing extreme cold as blood loss can rapidly speed the onset of hypothermia.
In the winter months it may be beneficial to pack more items related to slip and fall injuries including splints and fabric wraps.
Final Thoughts
With a pack like the Vanquest IBEX-26 and carefully planned supplies you will be ready to face the challenges that come along with traveling during the winter months. While we all hope never to face an emergency, it is a far safer bet to be prepared with the knowledge, skills, and equipment needed to keep us safe should disaster strike.
At first glance, the training near Vero Beach, Florida, looked like a straightforward tactical course. It was hosted by Gorilla Ammunition, a company better known for precision cartridges than emotional insight. Yet beneath the surface of its trauma drills and field exercises, something deeper took shape. The lessons were not only about how to save a life, but also how to regulate one’s own nervous system under threat. What unfolded resembled a form of therapy in motion, a physical and cognitive practice that echoed the principles of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, or EMDR.
EMDR is a therapy developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro. It helps people process disturbing experiences by combining focused attention with bilateral movement, such as eye motions, taps, or alternating tones. The technique activates both hemispheres of the brain, linking stored sensory fragments into coherent understanding. Over time, this process allows the body to stop reacting as if a past trauma were happening in the present. The training near Vero Beach would explore similar ground through entirely different means.
The chaos of a traumatic scene was imitated by overwhelming the senses.
Day One: Stabilization in Motion
The first day began inside Gorilla Ammunition’s headquarters and was taught by Gorilla Medical instructors Kris Hasenauer, Mandy Espinal, and Scott Adams. The focus was Tactical Combat Casualty Care, or TCCC, the military’s standard for treating injuries under fire. Its civilian counterpart, TECC, adapts those methods for emergencies where evacuation is close at hand. Both systems were born from lessons learned in Mogadishu during the 1993 Black Hawk Down incident, when soldiers bled out from otherwise survivable wounds. Modern battlefield medicine has since revolved around one goal: preventing avoidable deaths.
Instructors led students through the three phases of trauma care:
1) Direct Threat Care meant getting to safety and controlling massive hemorrhage.
2) Indirect Threat Care involved assessing injuries using the MARCH protocol: Massive hemorrhage, Airway, Respiration, Circulation, and Head injury/Hypothermia.
3) Evacuation Care focused on continued monitoring and shock prevention.
After hours of discussion and hands-on training, the class moved outside into the dense humidity of Florida to apply what they had learned.
Tourniquets, wound packing, and communication drills followed. The repetition built a rhythm that anchored participants in the moment. It was a rehearsal for composure, a physical act of self-regulation. Every step reinforced the same pattern: control chaos, establish safety, and then engage in treatment. The process mirrored the first phases of EMDR, which emphasize grounding and stabilization before confronting deeper distress. Whether the subject is a traumatic memory or a simulated gunfight, the nervous system cannot process what it cannot survive.
While obscured by blue smoke, participants needed to stabilize life-threatening wounds before moving their patients to a safer location.
As the heat of the day rose, the class performed a relay under stress. Teams carried teammates with simulated injuries, treated simulated wounds, and moved together through timed objectives. The noise, motion, and pressure triggered adrenaline, but the structure of the exercise demanded calm. The brain oscillated between chaos and control, the same alternating focus that EMDR uses to integrate emotion and logic. Order, it turned out, was its own kind of medicine.
Day Two: Learning to See
The next morning, the group met at an overgrown orange grove that doubled as one of Gorilla Ammunition’s training ranges. The air smelled faintly of fresh rain and damp soil. Freddy Osuna of Greenside Training introduced the art of tracking, the ability to read subtle signs of movement in nature. Unbeknownst to the students, his approach was blending fieldcraft with cognitive science. Tracking, he said, was not about looking for footprints. It was about learning to see.
The nail-trail is a tracking drill used to imprint the shape of a track into the mind.
Students studied how the edges of a hoofprint could indicate motion and direction, how soil displacement revealed urgency, and how crushed vegetation betrayed presence. They practiced shifting points of view and allowing peripheral vision to widen. Tracking required the same state of awareness that EMDR encourages, not forcing an answer but observing what appears. As participants relaxed their focus, patterns emerged where none had previously seemed to exist.
In one exercise, Osuna walked a short path, leaving small nails pressed into the dirt behind each heel. Students were then asked to count how many steps there were based on their own observation skills. The first few nails were easy, the rest appeared only when the eyes softened and the mind quieted. The drill trained perception through patience and trust, a process remarkably similar to how EMDR clients notice the fragments of memory that surface once the body feels safe enough to see them.
Several important nuances of animal tracking were discussed before moving on to man tracking.
This stage of the course resembled EMDR’s reprocessing phase. Participants gathered sensory data from a complex environment, linked it to context, and allowed insight to emerge.
Day Three: The Hunt and the Mind
The final day took place in a slash pine stand, its floor still saturated from days of heavy rain. This final exercise involved hunting Gorilla Medical instructor Scott Adams. Scott acted as an opposing force, moving and attempting to hide somewhere in the wet forest. The teams moved in slow coordination, scanning for broken branches, disturbed earth, or faint movement. Subtle environmental manipulations — distant sounds, shifting scents — kept everyone alert. After hours of tracking, the teams located and neutralized their target.
Freddy Osuna demonstrates several ways to manipulate light in order to get the most vivid look at a track.
Psychologically, the exercise completed a cycle that mirrored EMDR’s adaptive sequence. Day one established stabilization and safety. Day two expanded sensory and cognitive flexibility. Day three integrated the previous two into embodied awareness under pressure. Each layer engaged the same circuitry that therapy seeks to retrain, the shift from reactive survival to measured response.
From Chaos to Coherence
In Shapiro’s model of adaptive processing, the brain’s goal is to transform experience into learning. When trauma interrupts that process, memories remain locked in a state of alarm. Reprocessing allows those memories to econnect with healthier networks, so the body no longer treats them as threats. The Vero Beach training worked on this same principle, though in a different language. Movement, focus, and environment combined to teach the nervous system regulation through experience.
Students learned important factors to consider when deciding whether or not a canine track is wild or domestic.
Tracking used bilateral engagement — left foot, right foot, left eye, right eye — to restore rhythm. Trauma care demanded structured breathing and decision-making under duress. Both reinforced balance between perception and action. The body learned that it could stay grounded even while facing uncertainty.
Learning tracking skills can be overwhelming at first. Osuna helps students navigate those frustrations with expert guidance.
By the end, exhaustion gave way to quiet reflection. What began as tactical instruction evolved into an exercise in emotional control. True composure is not dominance but awareness. Survival, whether physical or psychological, depends as much on calm attention as on force or equipment.
Final Thoughts
The link between field training and therapy might seem coincidental, but both share a foundation in biology. The human brain seeks equilibrium through movement, rhythm, and sensory integration. When a person tracks a print in the sand or applies steady pressure to stop bleeding, the same neural systems that process trauma are engaged. Awareness, not avoidance, resolves threat.
Nature supports that healing instinct. The Florida wilderness offered constant sensory complexity. The scent of pine and soil, the shimmer of light through leaves, the hum of insects after rain. Immersed in it, the participants’ minds recalibrated without even realizing it was happening. What EMDR achieves through structured bilateral movement, the natural world offers through balance and attention. Both guide the brain from reflex to reflection, from reactivity to presence.
This overgrown orange grove is full of wildlife and human activity. Perfect for a day of honing tracking skills.
The Vero Beach course revealed that therapy does not always look like therapy. Sometimes it takes the shape of a tourniquet drill, a quiet walk in wet woods, or the patient search for a single track in the dirt. Beneath every tactical lesson was an unspoken one, how to steady the mind, how to stay human in the presence of fear, and how to track not only an adversary but also oneself.
Travel today, to just about anywhere in the world, is accessible to most. But the risks involved in travel, especially for the international traveler, are many. However, taking a few precautions and developing a security minded lifestyle can make your journey safe and enjoyable. When considering international travel these days, applying the lessons learned and countermeasures I used as a special agent will help keep you return with enjoyable memories.
Prior to travel, always make sure you are fit to do so. Having a clean bill of health and more than enough prescriptions (if necessary) is a foundation level prep. Always anticipate being delayed while traveling and carry the provisions necessary to get you home without missing a beat. Never pack prescriptions in checked luggage, they need to be in a carry-on bag. Prescriptions should be in the original packaging with your name and prescriber visible.
Having a physical and dental checkup completed before you travel is a smart idea. Do this even if you are feeling well. Ensure you are immunized for the region you plan to visit, and have those immunizations documented on an international immunization card. You may or may not have internet and or have access to your cellular phone when asked for evidence of your immunizations. A shot card gives you something to hand an official along with your passport. Travel doctors specialize in these preparations.
Before traveling, you should inform your bank or credit card company you will be traveling abroad to avoid them delaying payment or canceling your card under the assumption it has been compromised, hacked, or stolen. Also consider raising your credit limit or look for a premium card with added benefits to have emergency funding if necessary.
Discovering new places and learning about different cultures is one of the most important things we can do.
Make sure you have included a good international mobile phone plan with unlimited data to avoid roaming charges. At a minimum, your mobile phone will save you time and headaches that arise over missing gate tional plans if your phone has an eSIM.
Contact your insurance company and make sure you are covered in the country you plan to visit. Keeping in mind countries with ongoing civil unrest or insurgencies may be a liability issue with your insurance company, and they may not cover you should you be injured.
If you’re traveling abroad, it’s always good to find a travel doctor who specialized in infectious diseases. They will know exactly what you will need medically for the activity you intend to participate in. They can even prescribe you medications, which might not be readily available in the country you are traveling to, and even antibiotics should you find yourself far from medical attention. Many cities have travel clinics specifically for these purposes.
Do a little research into the region you’ll be traveling to. It will make you more aware of potential landmarks to visit.
Pre-Travel Steps
Get medical/dental checkup; stock prescriptions (carry-on only)
Confirm immunizations; carry shot card
Alert bank/credit cards; raise limit if possible
Verify health/travel insurance coverage
Secure international phone/eSIM + PLB
Put legal affairs in order (passport, POA, wills)
Designate an emergency contact with valid passport
Research risks, laws, and cultural norms
Book reputable hotels/tours; use trusted transport
Build a survival kit appropriate for the region, and know how to use its contents. Include a Global Positioning System (GPS) or a PLB. These are great tools to help you “stay found” or signal for help. If you are bringing along a smartphone, consider downloading mapping apps — such as Gaia — which work even without cell service and can display traffic, satellite images as well as topographic maps. You can quickly take a picture in the app, and it will provide a pin on a map, and the coordinates, which could be used to pinpoint your location to anyone you wish to notify.
Make sure you have ways to power your devices (e.g., solar panels and or power banks, etc.). Note: Don’t leave your power banks in your luggage. Place them in your carry on or customs will seize them (a lesson learned the hard way while en-route to Colombia).
Ideally, you should also include old-school maps and compass, along with a list of important numbers back home and in country. Having a printed copy of health insurance claim forms will help if you need treatment overseas so they can pay my medical provider. A PLB is good to have in areas where kidnappings are prevalent. This should be on your body, not in a pack, so it can be activated at a moment’s notice.
Having a plan in place for potential mishaps will give you peace of mind and make the experience more enjoyable.
Preparing a region and season specific first aid kit is a good idea as well. It bears repeating: you want to include in that kit enough prescriptions/vitamins to go beyond your intended travel period, in case you are extended for any reason. Include a method of water purification if you are planning travel to remote areas. There are numerous filters on the market but keep in mind they can clog, so having water purification tablets is a smart redundancy.
Photocopy all essential credit cards and documents you intend to travel with and leave a copy at home. Make an extra copy of your passport to bring with you. Emergency cash, prescriptions and extra glasses should also be part of your get home bag. Try reading a map, threading a needle or a fishhook without one. On your smartphone, download the U.S. State Department Smart Traveler app and request alerts for the region you will be in. Check in with the U.S. Embassy as well.
If you are traveling and don’t speak the language of the region, it’s not a bad idea to purchase a phrase book and a Pointee Talkee or Kwikpoint International Translator communication aid. They are filled with illustrations useful in communicating and can be purchased from Amazon. In addition to the use of smartphone apps that translate languages. I always like to have a backup that doesn’t need the internet or power.
Pay attention to your surroundings. If a place feels unsafe, it probably is.
Pack water, airline tickets, meal replacement bars, and emergency contacts such as U.S. Embassy numbers and addresses. It’s also great to have a card translated in the local language with your name, address, next of kin, phone number, and any medical condition or allergies. This way you can get help from medical personnel without missing a beat.
Travel Insurance
A great way to protect yourself and your things is to purchase travel insurance that offers plans, not only for medical treatment, but also repatriation if you are bedridden. It will also give you peace of mind if, while traveling, you need to purchase additional tickets to complete your journey or you need to cancel your dream trip due to unforeseen events.
As a business traveler, kidnap/extortion insurance might be a consideration. However, for the average tourist this might not be an option due to high premiums. If you’re planning on traveling despite warnings to places where kidnaping is an issue it might be time to reconsider your trip. Kidnappers thrive in countries where the rule of law doesn’t exist or there are not adequate laws to deal with the problem. Mexico comes to mind, especially the border area.
Letting a trusted friend or family member know your plans could help in an emergency.
Make certain all your legal affairs are in order, such as powers of attorney, wills, healthcare proxy. Double check the expiration dates on your passport. It’s always a good idea to designate someone at home who has a valid passport and would be willing and fit to travel to help you in an emergency. This is important in the event you get detained, sick or are seriously injured or in trouble while overseas.
Know the risks you could potentially face, and have a plan in mind should there be an incident. See if the country you are traveling to has an English language online news site or radio stations. See what’s happening before you arrive. You should be looking for any civil unrest, protests, worker strikes, or economic upheavals such as their currency crashing. These things are good to know because they can pose significant risks to you while abroad.
Staying Alert
As with anywhere you go, maintaining situational awareness is critical. Lots of people have heard about situational awareness but few know that true situational awareness includes the following mindset:
Past: Where was I and what happened?
Present: Where am I now and what’s going on?
Future: Where am I going? What might happen?
This should be a lifestyle habit of thinking not just for travel. Some of the tradecraft you might employ to keep yourself and your possessions safe are:
Carrying a decoy wallet with a small amount of foreign currency in case you are robbed. It’s important to have foreign currency in the wallet rather than U.S. currency so as not to make yourself a target of violence or kidnap if they are unaware of your nationality. Preload your money and escape tools in various locations on your body so as not to lose them all if you are robbed and searched.
It’s not uncommon for criminals to kidnap and sell Americans to insurgents or terror groups operating in certain areas of the world. Stay vigilant, don’t think you are not important enough to be kidnapped. Bad guys are aware of businesses, church groups, and even GoFundMe sites that they figure people can raise money for your ransom. I once worked a kidnapping case in Haiti. The victim: a 5-year-old girl kidnapped for a $3,000 ransom. Anyone can be a victim.
Be sure to carry a laminated copy of your passport while on the street. Your original passport should be locked in a safe place until you are ready to return home or travel to your next destination. Keep in mind that in most countries, converting your U.S. currency into foreign currency will require a passport or copy. When exchanging currency, even in an airport always be conscious of your surroundings. On a trip to Israel once, I was pickpocketed inside Ben Gurion Airport, going from the baggage claim area to the money exchange counter. And losing a nice pair of expensive sunglasses in the process.
Spending time abroad will make you aware of new perspectives.
Bars, Nightclubs, and the Sex Trade
Regardless of whether you intend to participate in activity involving the sex trade, it’s important to remember that the areas where these activities take place — Red Light Districts — are high-risk areas for kidnap, rape (including men), robbery, and drugging. Most of the sex trade is run by organized crime, even in countries where the sex trade is sanctioned by the government. Sexually transmitted diseases are common, even when sex workers are regularly screened.
Surveillance by criminal elements to include corrupt police is higher in these areas and can result in being pickpocketed. Or, worse yet, being drugged, taken to an ATM, and forced to withdraw as much of your money as possible before being beaten or killed. Imagine explaining this to the wife.
The types of drugs used are typical date rape drugs to include Xanax, ketamine, gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and scopolamine (aka hyoscine truth serum, which renders the victim compliant). This is commonly still used in Central and South America. A prospective date might spray this in your face or from a stranger while sharing a taxi ride, hailed on the street.
Relative safety is something we take for granted in the West. Many places are not as reliable.
Recreational Drug Use Abroad
Buying drugs for personal use in a foreign country is your quickest way to being locked up abroad, either in a prison or a psychiatric hospital. Drugs, even in countries where its legal, can often be laced with other drugs or have been “stepped on” (mixed with other substances to increase bulk) with everything from animal feces to industrial or agricultural chemicals.
In some instances, unscrupulous authorities will use a drug-related incident to illicit a bribe, which may involve a lengthy detention with less-than-ideal accommodations.
Also, a purchase of a drug over the legal limit in a foreign country might be viewed as a drug trafficking violation, either in the host country or upon your return to a U.S. Port of Entry.
Having a simple understanding about local laws can go a long way. In many places, livestock animals are extremely valuable and should not be endangered or harassed.
Know the Law
Beware of laws that do not exist in the U.S. that could pose a risk of institutional detention abroad. In some cases, institutional detention (being locked up abroad) can be as bad as being held against your will by a criminal or terrorist group. Think North Korea and Russia. Examples include: knife laws, laws regarding public intoxication, religious laws, or taking pictures of government buildings or troops in public.
Remember, you are not in the U.S., and your cultural dos and don’ts do not transfer. Laws, and the corresponding punishments, can be very different. Singapore is a great example of having strict laws. A traveler could face severe punishment for something as innocuous as walking naked in your own house, which is illegal — as well as chewing gum, smoking anywhere, making noise after 10 p.m., being gay, any type of drug-related activity, and more.
Additional Safety Tips
While abroad, book with reputable hotels and only take excursions with established tour companies. Take cabs from well-known businesses avoid hailing cabs on the street. Have your hotel concierge call the cab company for you. This is a great way to establish an official record of your travel with the cab company. Never let your cabbie take you places off the meter, which may lead to an argument about being under paid, or, worse, he might lead you to criminal groups intending to do you harm.
Avoid taking pictures of sensitive cultural sites or government buildings. It’s a good practice to ask for permission. Keep in mind you might get some cool pictures of things you’re not supposed to, only to later have your mobile phone taken by customs officers who discover the pictures as you are leaving the country. Not good.
Always dress appropriately for the country you are in and the climate you will encounter. Consider modesty (I always prefer neutral colors). Learn a few polite greetings and phrases. Avoid public intoxication and behavior that will attract the attention of the authorities. Avoid using military surplus gear and clothing especially in countries with insurgencies or unrest. You don’t need to become confused with being a supporter of a hostile group or being suspected a mercenary.
In the early 1990s, the Chiapas revolt in Mexico resulted in a few unexpected and less than comfortable detentions of foreigners by the authorities. The revolt was a green light for the police and military to stop, search and question foreigners suspected of going to support the Chiapas revolutionaries.
It’s currently in vogue to participate in lock sport in the U.S. (i.e., picking locks for fun).
There are also well-meaning companies selling lock pick sets and escape tools for people to use during unlawful detentions, such as a kidnapping. This isn’t to suggest you don’t travel with a plan to deal with a potential kidnapping. However, carrying tools that are clearly to defeat locks and restraints can, if found, result in your being suspected of being a criminal. Or worse, possessing tools used by spies and mercenaries. It’s best to pack everyday items, which can in a pinch be converted to picks and shims. And if you plan to bring items such as bobby pins have an alibi for why you have certain items in your possession.
Intel Gathering
When traveling abroad always assume you are under observation (this might include your hotel room). Today more than ever, even in the third world, there are cameras and police everywhere. Plan on, at some point, encountering someone seeking to know more about you and your reasons for being in their country. It could just be a taxi driver, curious and looking to accommodate you, but it can also be someone intending to develop intelligence on you to commit a crime.
Sadly, governments and criminal groups either pose as taxi drivers, or employ people in the tourist industry to identify targets or threats. It’s always good to be friendly, polite, and nonthreatening with strangers. It’s also good to have an alibi to use that can stand up to scrutiny. For example, when I was traveling back when I worked in law enforcement, when asked what I did back home, I claimed to work with a nonprofit organization whose goal was to help the people of the country I was traveling in. Of course, use an alibi you know well. For this example, I had worked previously for a nonprofit organization, so it was an easy sell. This was a much better option than explaining I was an FBI Agent on vacation.
In many countries, law enforcement and intelligence officers are synonymous, and the belief is intelligence officers are never on vacation. So, if you have a sensitive job such as military, law enforcement, or you work for a cleared contractor that makes weapons, it might be good to have an alibi that isn’t as startling or controversial. Also, avoid using anything with company or agency logos that might betray your story.
Getting Detained or Arrested
Getting rolled up (i.e. arrested) is not hard to do in some cases. If you do get detained or arrested for whatever reason, make sure you respectfully ask to speak with a representative from the U.S. Embassy. Never sign anything that might result in charges being formalized against you that the U.S. will not be able to assist you with. If the U.S. does help, you might still be in hot water because crimes abroad might still be prosecuted in the U.S., especially if the foreign laws violated are also a violation of U.S. law. But it’s been my experience that our prison accommodations are preferred worldwide. You decide.
Post Travel Steps
Change passwords used abroad
Tell doctor about recent travel
Continue preventive meds (e.g., malaria pills)
Watch for symptoms; report with travel context
Share travel doctor contact info if needed
Homeward Bound
So, you have returned home without a hitch. You have great stories, pictures, and memories. Remember the situational awareness we talked about? There is still work to be done to ensure your travel, or your health, wasn’t compromised. Upon return to the U.S. consider changing passwords for accounts used during your travels as a safety precaution.
Advise your primary care physician of your recent travel. Continue taking prescribed medicines such as malaria pills in accordance with the medical guidance your doctor gave you.
Should you suddenly begin to show any symptoms of illness it is important for your symptoms to be viewed in context with recent travel to insure proper diagnosis. You might even share the name and number of your travel doctor you might have used during your pretravel preparations. They will be in a great position to help sort out your diagnosis with their knowledge of endemic diseases in the region you were in.
I enjoy travel. I enjoy it even more if there is some risk involved. But I like calculated risk rather than depending on sheer luck to get back. While serving in the U.S. Marines my sniper team’s motto was, “Always Make It Hard to Hurt You!” This is what I call a mindset rule. If you keep these things in mind, you eventually begin to integrate and adapt techniques, which then become your lifestyle — a lifestyle that will give you confidence and real skills to prevent you, your family, and friends from being victims of any kind. Safe travels!
About the Author
Phillip Irizarry is a Marine Corps veteran of 10 years, having served both in the reserves and active duty from 1981 to 1990 as a Motor Transport Operator, Infantry Rifleman, and a Marine Scout Sniper. He also served 28 years as a Special Agent with the FBI. While serving with the FBI he worked a variety of assignments including drugs, violent crimes, public corruption, healthcare, fraud, counter terrorism and kidnapping investigations. His duties included SWAT operations, undercover operations, crisis/hostage negotiation, and firearms instruction. Phillip has been a volunteer and is currently Board Chair for Operation First Response since 2007, providing peer support for wounded veterans, caregivers, police officers, and first responders. In his down time, he enjoys adventure travel, primitive skills, bushcraft, and family time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and dogs.
Imagine you wake at two in the morning to the sound of breaking glass. Your heart races. In a split second your brain goes into overdrive: you worry about your family, defending your home, and the safety of the people you love. You jump out of bed, grab your weapon, and move through a house you know like the back of your hand. In the living room you see the silhouette of a figure who is too large to be one of your loved ones. You turn on your weapon light. A pistol is raised toward you and a shot rings out — it misses to the left. You raise your weapon, present, engage, fire three shots, and the intruder drops to the ground. You move forward cautiously, weapon trained on the body, check for a pulse, confirm they are dead, take a breath, and then the adrenaline dump hits: your hands start to shake. You call 911 and let the system do its work.
That entire scenario — the way your brain and body respond — is what we will explore. Today, we look at the science behind a home-defense encounter involving the use of deadly force. We will break down how your body and mind will react and the neuroscience of extreme stress responses. This information can help civilians and first responders prepare for and recover from these intense events.
When your mind perceives a threat, it initiates a biological response meant to help keep you alive.
Primal Neural Mechanisms: Fight, Flight, or Freeze
A home-defense gunfight activates primal neural mechanisms in the human body. These mechanisms affect perception, decision-making, memory, and behavior and are often beyond conscious control. Most people prepare for the physical aspects of home defense: training at the range, choosing an appropriate weapon and caliber for a home environment, and understanding layout and construction hazards. Today, we want to prepare for the neurological and psychological stress responses and understand what happens beyond our technical training.
The 2 a.m. breaking glass is the stimulus that engages the brain’s emergency operating system: the fight, flight, or freeze response. The amygdala — the brain’s fear and threat center — can be “hijacked.” When it takes over, the brain favors rapid threat detection and reflexive response over slow, rational processing. The amygdala drives reactionary decision-making and triggers chemical changes by activating the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. For simplification, think of the HPA axis like a thermostat: When it senses danger, the hypothalamus signals the adrenal glands to release adrenaline, which speeds up the body’s reactionary processes.
These neurochemical changes activate the sympathetic nervous system. Heart rate rises, pupils dilate, and blood vessels shift to push blood to core organs and muscles. This suite of neurological and biological events prepares your body for a fight.
Training in high-stress scenarios can help you cope when the amygdala decides to take over.
Time Perception and Sensory Distortions
Startled awake, your fight-or-flight response begins and your brain changes how it processes sensory input. You move down the hall toward the threat, but it may feel like the longest walk of your life. Ambient sounds can seem muffled by rushing blood. Tunnel vision can narrow your visual field, and you may feel detached, as if you are watching yourself rather than acting.
During extreme stress, time perception and sensory distortions are common. A phenomenon called tachypsychia alters time perception — moments can feel stretched. Auditory exclusion (reduced ability to hear) and tunnel vision (loss of peripheral awareness) are neuroprotective physiological responses to threat. You may also experience depersonalization or dissociation because of the adrenaline surge. Understanding these neurophysiological changes can help you maintain composure and an effective protective posture. Mental rehearsal and stress-inoculation training are key to managing these responses.
Fine Versus Gross Motor Skills
As you approach the room, adrenaline courses through your body. Your heart pounds, your hands feel heavy or numb, and small fine-motor tasks become difficult. When you break the threshold and see a silhouette in the window light, you raise the weapon and aim.
Adrenaline impairs fine motor control (manipulating small objects or performing precise tasks) while gross motor skills (large, forceful movements) dominate. This has important training implications. Under stress people do not perform above their training level, they revert to the highest level at which they have been trained. Practice must include weapon manipulation under stress, target acquisition, and a stress-fire routine. Shooting for sport and shooting to survive are different skills. Being accurate at the range does not guarantee competence under life-and-death stress. Design your training and home-defense plans with those differences in mind.
Threat Perception, Bias, and Decision-Making Under Stress
You have a backlit silhouette in your sights. Your heart races, your hands tremble, and thoughts — or the absence of them — move through your brain at lightning speed. You flip on the weapon light and see an unknown person holding a knife. You fire two rounds. The body hits the floor.
The prefrontal cortex is responsible for analytic thinking, impulse control, and moral reasoning. Under extreme stress, the prefrontal cortex can be bypassed by faster, threat-driven circuits. Heuristics — mental shortcuts used for pattern recognition and rapid judgments — can be influenced by prior experience, training, or trauma and may produce bias. Those rapid judgments can mean the difference between a life-saving action and a tragic mistake. Purposeful training that conditions decision-making under stress is essential to mitigate the risks of snap judgments.
The brain also uses rapid decision cycles such as the OODA loop — Observe, Orient, Decide, Act — to speed up responses. Conditioning, scenario-based planning, and realistic training are necessities for anyone who intends to use a firearm for personal defense.
Post-Incident Effects: Memory, Guilt, and PTSD
After the event your ears may ring and you may smell cordite. You turn on the lights, see the body, check for a pulse, and confront a surge of emotion and physiological reaction.
In the aftermath of a shooting, the brain often shows acute stress responses. Memories may be fragmented, distorted, or incomplete. Sometimes false or confabulated memories appear as protective mechanisms. This is one reason eyewitness testimony can be unreliable. Survivors may experience moral injury or survivor’s guilt after taking a life, even when the action was legally and ethically justified. Without appropriate therapeutic measures, acute stress reactions can evolve into post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Returning to baseline takes time. Neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine) and hormones (cortisol) must rebalance. Sleep and mood are affected. Memory consolidation and emotional regulation can be impaired. It is imperative to connect with appropriate professionals, allow yourself to rest and process the event, and engage in corrective therapies as needed. Training and mental rehearsal can prepare you to act, but post-incident care is just as important for long-term recovery.
Situations like these are chaotic and overwhelm the senses. The ensuing trauma makes post- incident care a top priority.
Conclusion
A home-invasion gunfight is not only a physical event — it is a neurobiological upheaval. Preparation, training, and mental rehearsals will make you and your family safer. Responsible firearms ownership includes legal knowledge and range practice, but it also requires cognitive and psychological preparation both before and after an incident. Develop a plan that includes pre-incident training and post-incident care for yourself and your family. This is not just a legal issue; it is a psychological and physiological one as well.
About the Author
Kristopher Hasenauer is a board-certified physician assistant and graduated from the Army’s Interservice Physician Assistant Program in 2014. He is a former Special Forces A-Team Member Medical Specialist (18D) and held multiple operational and medical advisory positions within the U.S. Special Operations Command since 2005. Among his numerous endeavors, he is the CEO of Emerald Medical, coordinates training with Gorilla Ammunition, Gorilla Medical, Gorilla Tactical, and runs T1RX.
