The Armed Citizen® July 16, 2018

by
posted on July 16, 2018
** 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 (4)

When three armed young men tried to force a convenience mart worker into the store so they could rob it, the clerk fought back—and came out on top. The employee, a Marine veteran, was taking a break from his duties behind the register at the Tennessee business, when three strangers approached. When one pointed a shotgun at him, the veteran drew his every-day-carry handgun and fired, hitting the culprit in the stomach. The other two suspects ran off. The wounded man was charged, and the police were seeking his accomplices. (wsmv.com, Nashville, TN, 5/11/18)

The Armed Citizen® Extra
A Tumwater, Wash., pastor, who is also a volunteer EMT firefighter and concealed-carry permit holder, stopped an active shooter from causing more casualties in a Wal-Mart parking lot. Prior to arriving at the store, the gunman had fired into two nearby vehicles, injuring a person. He then stole a car and then drove to the store where, inside, he fired into a case of ammunition, stealing its contents. Continuing his rampage, he shot another man in the parking lot, then attempted to steal a second vehicle. The pastor, who had been inside the Wal-Mart with his family, followed the shooter outside and shot him before he could target another victim. The shooter succumbed to his wounds and the pastor was cleared of any wrongdoing. The two injured victims are expected to recover. (The News Tribune, Tumwater, WA, 6/20/18)

From the Armed Citizen® Archives
July 1983
Idaho Falls, Idaho, furniture storeowner Nick Vrontikis responded when the store’s burglar alarm activated one evening. As he stood, armed with a pistol, in the darkened establishment, the shopkeeper heard noises coming from the back room. There, among some mattresses, Vrontikis discovered an intruder and held him at gunpoint until police arrived. (The Post-Register, Idaho Falls, ID)

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.