Fear & Loading: Gun Collector Targeted

by
posted on January 30, 2017
** 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. **
fl.jpg

Armed home invaders knew it was a gun owner they were robbing at 2 a.m. on Jan. 26 in Mississippi. It started with a pistol whipping and escalated to five shots in his legs—perhaps to coerce him to open the gun safe. It’s an ugly reminder for all of us to be careful who discovers you’re a firearm enthusiast.

An official for the Rankin County Sheriff’s office said the victim is recovering from his wounds, but 25 to 30 guns were taken in the heist according to this news report. “…[T]his was not a random act of violence,” the law enforcement agency explained to station WLBT. “The victim was known to at least one of the suspects, and was targeted because he was a firearms collector.”

Federal and state authorities have been called in to aid the investigation. Authorities believe at least three perpetrators were in on the heist, taking guns that range from AR-15s to .38 Spl. revolvers. With the U.S. Marshalls involved, it’s possible at least one of the suspects is a known fugitive.

It’s still unknown how the perpetrators learned about the enthusiast or his collection. At least one news source claims the victim is a firearm dealer.

Regardless of the information’s source, it’s a scary reminder we should be cautious. It’s a shame, too, but even an innocent family member’s comment to a trusted friend could be overheard or relayed to someone with criminal intentions.  

Latest

Japanese Type 94 Ihtog 1
Japanese Type 94 Ihtog 1

I Have This Old Gun: Japanese Type 94 Pistol

Among the pantheon of World War II military sidearms, the Japanese Type 94 stands out for a number of undesirable reasons. Aside from its ungainly look, many regard it as one of the most dangerous firearms ever made.

New For 2025: GForce Arms 12Hammer

The latest option in the diverse lineup of GForce Arms shotguns is the 12Hammer, an AR-style platform chambered for 12-ga. shotshells that feeds from detachable box magazines.

Tips & Techniques: DIY Fire Bluing

Is there anything prettier than fire bluing? This bright, “peacock” blue color is one of the world’s oldest firearm finishes and can be found on guns dating back as early as the 16th century and is still used on some of today’s high-end custom arms.

Rifleman Q&A: Eddystone Bayonets

"I recently started collecting World War I U.S. military firearms. I want to obtain a Model 1917 rifle made by each contractor—Winchester, Remington and Eddystone—along with bayonets for each. However, I can only locate bayonets made by Winchester and Remington. Why are bayonets made by Eddystone so hard to find?"

NRA Youth Education Summit 2025 Provides Scholarships, Leadership Lessons

The 2025 NRA Youth Education Summit (Y.E.S.) brought together 32 exceptional high school students from across the United States.

Unfair Advantage: The Walther PDP Pro-X PMM

The latest “Pro” model in this famous German maker’s line of U.S.-assembled pistols leverages more than 100 years of experience in building service-size semi-automatics. And the results are better than even most experienced shooters should expect.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.