The Armed Citizen® March 23, 2014

by
posted on March 23, 2014
** 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 (3)

Christy Vasilakos got into a heated argument with her boyfriend early one morning prior to kicking him out just before 6 a.m. He returned soon thereafter, however, and demanded to be let in. He broke several windows and banged on the front door. The fight moved outside to the sidewalk where the couple continued to argue. The noise woke neighbors, including Vickie Rock, who was staying at her boyfriend's apartment upstairs. Rock, 50, went outside and tried to intercede when she saw Vasilako's boyfriend beating her with a metal object. When he turned on her, Rock pulled out her .45-cal. handgun and fired. He staggered away and was later found dead in a nearby parking lot. (Tampa Bay Times, Riverview, Fla., 8/17/13)

A suspicious man, who wore a black hooded sweatshirt pulled over his head to conceal most of his face, entered a convenience store with ill intent. He had already been in the store earlier that day, but left. During his second visit, around 7 p.m., the suspect pulled out a large knife and demanded money from the store's owner, Indar Hooda. Hooda drew a gun, prompting the would-be robber to flee the store. Hooda said, "I'm happy he walked out when he saw the gun. If I didn't take it out, he was going to stab me." No one was injured during the attempted robbery and it was last reported that the suspect was still at large. (The Standard-Times, New Bedford, Mass., 6/5/13)

From The Armed Citizen® Archives

March 1976: Ensil Malone arrived at his St. Marys, W. Va., tavern about 3 a.m. to find two burglars preparing to cart away liquor and stereo equipment. Shots from his .22 rifle sent the looters running off empty-handed. (The Oracle, St. Marys, W. Va.)

Latest

Gotw Tristar Arms Kr22 1
Gotw Tristar Arms Kr22 1

Gun of the Week: TriStar Arms KR.22

Semi-automatic .22 rifles have been a staple in the firearm marketplace for decades, and the TriStar Arms KR.22 brings yet another lightweight, affordable option that accepts Ruger 10/22 rotary magazines.

Political Report | Trump Reiterates National Right-to-Carry Support

I am repeatedly reminded of how critical it was that the NRA engaged early in supporting Donald Trump’s 2016 candidacy—and that he won. A recent example came in June, when President Trump spoke to American workers at a Mack Trucks facility in Macungie, Pa.

The Armed Citizen® Aug. 21, 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.

The Norinco TU-33/40: A Rimfire Mauser Lookalike from China

The Norinco TU-33/40 is, at a glance, a copy of a Mauser 98k with a few choice details that give away the fact that it’s not a big-bore World War II workhorse.

AI Tools Enter the Used-Gun Market

Companies that deal in the used-gun market are not shy about sharing the advantages their AI-driven tools and services.

Standing Guard | Standing on the Line for Freedom

This past August marks 46 years since I raised my right hand and was commissioned as an infantry officer in the United States Marine Corps. In the summer of 1980, I entered active duty with a firm sense of civic duty and a deep desire to serve our great nation. Like so many who wear the uniform, I was ready to contribute directly to the defense of freedom.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.