The Armed Citizen® September 4, 2012

by
posted on September 4, 2012
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
ac2009_fs.jpg

A couple was approached by 29-year-old Christopher Rigby as they sat in a vehicle in the parking lot of Earl’s True Value around 11 p.m. Rigby, who appeared homeless, asked the couple for a dollar. When they refused, he walked away. Approximately 15 minutes later, Rigby returned and approached the driver’s side window. Rigby then produced a knife and tried to stab the man in the driver’s seat. The driver quickly grabbed a gun from the console and shot Rigby in the chest as the woman in the car dialed 911. Rigby was pronounced dead at a local hospital. (The Free Lance-Star, Stafford, Va., 5/24/12)

From The Armed Citizen Archives

August 1973: A man broke into the Bartow, Fla., home of Mrs. Emily Johnson and proceeded to attack her with a knife. Though stabbed several times, Mrs. Johnson managed to reach a .22 revolver and kill her assailant. (Orlando Sentinel, Orlando, Fla.)

From The Armed Citizen Archives

May 1987: A Bridgeport, Conn., resident went to help two men who said their car had broken down near his home. But when his wife saw the pair strike her husband with a hammer, she came out of the house firing a .38. She struck one of the assailants, and two suspects were arrested at a local hospital where the injured man sought medical treatment. (The Evening Post, Bridgeport, Conn.)

Latest

World War I-era Berthier M16 carbine
World War I-era Berthier M16 carbine

Taking It Home: War Trophies in American History

From our founding to the more recent past, war-trophy firearms have played a significant role in arming American citizens.

Questions & Answers: Patterning with the Poly Choke

I bought a Remington 1100 LW 20-gauge shotgun for my wife to shoot clay targets (informally) and sometimes hunt with me when I go hunting for waterfowl.

Meprolight Offers Free Suppressor With Optic Purchase

Readers have only until July 31, 2026, to purchase a qualifying Meprolight optic and be eligible to receive a rebate for a free Backdraft Hunter suppressor in a caliber of their choosing.

Gun Locker: Wilson Combat eXperior Elite

Wilson Combat continues its fine tradition of making excellent guns even better with its new eXperior Elite design.

The Sako 90 Grizzly: Modernity Meets Tradition

Hunting remains a largely traditional activity, and some of us just like the feel of a nice wood stock. For those purists among us, Sako has introduced its new-for-2026 Grizzly.

The Armed Citizen® July 13, 2026

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

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.