Purpose, Scope, and Objectives of the Strategies, Tactics & Training Forum
The Strategies, Tactics & Training forum is intended to serve as a medium for the serious and thoughtful discussion of the preparation and training for, and engagement in, lawful self defense, armed or otherwise. We encourage the discussion not only of what to do should a defensive situation arise, but of how to anticipate and avoid such an occurrence, thus precluding the need for the use of deadly force. Accordingly, the discussion of such things as how to make a home more secure and how to avoid being chosen as a crime victim are welcome, as are discussions of firearms or other weapons and their use.
The scope of ST&T covers civilian (that is, non military and non law enforcement) situations. There are other fora available on the Internet for paramilitary discussions and for sworn officers acting in the line of duty.
However, the experience and opinions of active and former law enforcement officers frequently provide invaluable background and perspectives for the armed citizen. Contributions by sworn officers are encouraged and welcome.
Defense in the home and elsewhere are both acceptable topics of discussion, with a few limitations. We generally discourage the discussion of road rage incidents, as the use of weapons is rarely if ever appropriate, and as driving techniques are beyond the scope of The High Road. Scenarios must be realistic. SHTF, TEOTWAWKI, and fantasy/zombie scenarios will not be entertained here, nor will we engage in discussions relating to the preparation for possible societal breakdown, foreign invasion, and so forth.
Since defensive tactics and strategies applicable the event of realistic emergencies such as storms and floods are inextricably related to other aspects of survival in such circumstances, what to have on hand or to take with you are acceptable subjects of discussion. For example, limited, constructive discussions of the appropriate contents of “bug out bags” are acceptable, as long as they do not turn into “show and tell” exhibitions.
However, broader discussion of “survival” issues, such as the laying in of long term food supplies, water purification, alternative energy, etc. fall outside of the scope of our mission here at THR.org.
Conduct and Decorum in Posting in ST&T
In a very real sense, we are all ambassadors for responsible firearms ownership to the world at large. That world includes a large number of people who do not support the right to keep and bear arms and who may hold negative opinions of those who own guns, as well as those who believe that the appropriate civilian use of firearms should be limited to the hunting field or the trap range. Many believe that the protection of citizens is solely the responsibility of the police.
Since the topics discussed in ST&T must necessarily encompass the use of deadly force with potentially lethal consequences, it is of paramount importance that what is posted here be always be presented in the most responsible, mature, and thoughtful manner.
Self defense and the use of deadly force are very serious subjects indeed, and we therefore strongly discourage attempts at humor, satire or sarcasm, because they do not come across well in the discussion of the kinds of subjects that come up here.
Likewise, we will maintain a very high standard in terms of the acceptability of the language and comments used. Neither the use of profanity, nor attempts to defeat the language filter with the use of symbols intended to suggest inappropriate words, is acceptable. We expect our members to refrain from boorishness. Intemperate statements or slurs against law enforcement personnel or any racial, ethnic, and religious groups are unacceptable, and will be dealt with firmly.
Everything posted on THR can have significant long term impacts on public opinion, on the reputation of THR, the staff, and our members.
Advocacy of any kind of unlawful or clearly unethical conduct is not permitted. Additionally, we hold to the principle that deadly force should be employed only as a last resort. This is for two reasons: (1) the experience of knowledgeable persons shows that even lawful shootings, etc., can prove extremely costly in many ways to the law abiding citizen or officer, and (2) it is essential for successfully fulfilling our roles as ambassadors to the world at large.
Expanding upon the first of these, the legal battle that may follow a lawful defensive shooting can be very expensive; the situation can result in loss of livelihood and strained relationships among friends and family. In addition, second thoughts and psychological repercussions can haunt anyone who has taken the life of another for decades.
Regarding the second, members of the public, like most of us, abhor violence and do not generally approve of those whom they perceive to advocate unnecessary harm to others. For this reason, “blood lust” is off limits here. Comments such as “we have the castle doctrine, and anyone who comes into my house has forfeited his right to live”, “I’ll shoot to kill”, “dead men do not tell tales”, or “move out of your liberal state and move to Texas where we shoot ‘em” will not be permitted. This list is intended to be illustrative and is not all-inclusive.
ST&T is in effect a “one room school house” in which experienced and new “students” can learn together and share knowledge. Many of our members have less knowledge and less experience than others. We do not want anyone put off by a curt or critical response to a legitimate question. Serious questions deserve serious answers. Personal attacks on other members will not be tolerated.
Everyone who posts here or anywhere else on the Internet should understand that such posts are permanent, and they may be subject to discovery in legal proceedings at any time in the future. Should any member ever find himself or herself involved in such proceedings, posts containing comments that could be interpreted unfavorably could prove damaging.
A final comment on conduct and decorum: Think twice and post once.
Concerning the Law
The legality of actions suggested or advocated here is an essential part of the discussion.
It is incumbent upon everyone who carries a firearm to familiarize himself or herself with the relevant laws in their jurisdiction and anywhere else where they may be carrying.
While the basic principles of the laws pertaining to self defense are essentially comparable in all fifty states, there are significant differences among the details. Many of the differences lie in “castle doctrines”, which exist in some states as codified in law and in others as established in court decisions, and which differ in important detail; in other some jurisdictions, they are not provided for at all. It is essential to know and understand what applies where one lives.
We will provide a few generalities for those new to the subject of self defense:
In this Internet age, many people have found it is easy to search for and read the state criminal codes. A warning is in order: trying to interpret a particular law in isolation by using lay dictionary definitions can lead to erroneous conclusions. Case law—decisions rendered by high courts in the interpretation of the laws—and relationships among other pertinent laws and constitutional principles can have as much to do with the real meaning of the law as the words in a single statute.
For this reason, we strongly discourage the rote cutting and pasting into posts of state legal codes to support one’s position in a discussion here, and we advise against the reliance on same to justify the lawfulness of a particular course of action.
Such reliance is particularly dangerous when it comes to justifying the use of deadly force. The use of a weapon, and even its display by a civilian in many circumstances, is normally an unlawful act. Relying upon a layman’s interpretation of the code to justify the use of a weapon is usually not a good idea. Probably the safest philosophy is that a deadly weapon should be used only when it is immediately necessary and when there is no alternative.
In a similar vein, trying to obtain legal advice over the Internet is not a good strategy.
Once more, what is posted here is public and permanent. You do not want to publish anything on ST&T, where it may be made available to plaintiffs and investigators, that you should more properly tell only to an attorney in confidence in a privileged legal communication.
Training
Few in our civilized society are accustomed to physical violence. Neither the mental preparation for, the physical proficiency in, nor the legal principles governing the lawful use of force in self defense is instinctive. They must be studied, learned, and practiced.
Self defense incidents, when the need cannot be prevented, almost always unfold rapidly. Having a well developed and practiced skillset can make all of the difference between success and the serious consequences of failure. Obtaining sound instruction from respected and knowledgeable trainers can be the best investment that an armed citizen can make.
Those who have taken training applicable to self defense have quickly learned that shooing at targets at a gun range is not the same thing at all, and that the professional training provided knowledge, skills, and experience far beyond what they had learned on their own. There are training resources available in many locations. We will strive to maintain a current list for the benefit of THR members. Those who discover new resources are strongly encouraged to contact us so we can share what you have learned.
Maintaining the High Standards of the Strategies, Tactics & Tactics Forum
The assigned ST&T Moderators, and the Moderators of other THR fora, monitor and review postings to the best of our ability. When we come upon posts that do not meet the standards set forth here, we will edit or delete the offending message. The member responsible may lose his or her posting privileges.
However, we cannot screen everything in real time. We ask that forum members who notice questionable posts use the report function to alert the THR staff.
We encourage the use of private messages to the moderators to ask questions or make suggestions. In addition, PMs between forum members can be used for to continue side discussions that need not be public.
For further explanation of expected behavior on THR, please read the forum rules at http://www.thehighroad.org/code-of-conduct.html .
The Strategies, Tactics & Training forum is intended to serve as a medium for the serious and thoughtful discussion of the preparation and training for, and engagement in, lawful self defense, armed or otherwise. We encourage the discussion not only of what to do should a defensive situation arise, but of how to anticipate and avoid such an occurrence, thus precluding the need for the use of deadly force. Accordingly, the discussion of such things as how to make a home more secure and how to avoid being chosen as a crime victim are welcome, as are discussions of firearms or other weapons and their use.
The scope of ST&T covers civilian (that is, non military and non law enforcement) situations. There are other fora available on the Internet for paramilitary discussions and for sworn officers acting in the line of duty.
However, the experience and opinions of active and former law enforcement officers frequently provide invaluable background and perspectives for the armed citizen. Contributions by sworn officers are encouraged and welcome.
Defense in the home and elsewhere are both acceptable topics of discussion, with a few limitations. We generally discourage the discussion of road rage incidents, as the use of weapons is rarely if ever appropriate, and as driving techniques are beyond the scope of The High Road. Scenarios must be realistic. SHTF, TEOTWAWKI, and fantasy/zombie scenarios will not be entertained here, nor will we engage in discussions relating to the preparation for possible societal breakdown, foreign invasion, and so forth.
Since defensive tactics and strategies applicable the event of realistic emergencies such as storms and floods are inextricably related to other aspects of survival in such circumstances, what to have on hand or to take with you are acceptable subjects of discussion. For example, limited, constructive discussions of the appropriate contents of “bug out bags” are acceptable, as long as they do not turn into “show and tell” exhibitions.
However, broader discussion of “survival” issues, such as the laying in of long term food supplies, water purification, alternative energy, etc. fall outside of the scope of our mission here at THR.org.
Conduct and Decorum in Posting in ST&T
In a very real sense, we are all ambassadors for responsible firearms ownership to the world at large. That world includes a large number of people who do not support the right to keep and bear arms and who may hold negative opinions of those who own guns, as well as those who believe that the appropriate civilian use of firearms should be limited to the hunting field or the trap range. Many believe that the protection of citizens is solely the responsibility of the police.
Since the topics discussed in ST&T must necessarily encompass the use of deadly force with potentially lethal consequences, it is of paramount importance that what is posted here be always be presented in the most responsible, mature, and thoughtful manner.
Self defense and the use of deadly force are very serious subjects indeed, and we therefore strongly discourage attempts at humor, satire or sarcasm, because they do not come across well in the discussion of the kinds of subjects that come up here.
Likewise, we will maintain a very high standard in terms of the acceptability of the language and comments used. Neither the use of profanity, nor attempts to defeat the language filter with the use of symbols intended to suggest inappropriate words, is acceptable. We expect our members to refrain from boorishness. Intemperate statements or slurs against law enforcement personnel or any racial, ethnic, and religious groups are unacceptable, and will be dealt with firmly.
Everything posted on THR can have significant long term impacts on public opinion, on the reputation of THR, the staff, and our members.
Advocacy of any kind of unlawful or clearly unethical conduct is not permitted. Additionally, we hold to the principle that deadly force should be employed only as a last resort. This is for two reasons: (1) the experience of knowledgeable persons shows that even lawful shootings, etc., can prove extremely costly in many ways to the law abiding citizen or officer, and (2) it is essential for successfully fulfilling our roles as ambassadors to the world at large.
Expanding upon the first of these, the legal battle that may follow a lawful defensive shooting can be very expensive; the situation can result in loss of livelihood and strained relationships among friends and family. In addition, second thoughts and psychological repercussions can haunt anyone who has taken the life of another for decades.
Regarding the second, members of the public, like most of us, abhor violence and do not generally approve of those whom they perceive to advocate unnecessary harm to others. For this reason, “blood lust” is off limits here. Comments such as “we have the castle doctrine, and anyone who comes into my house has forfeited his right to live”, “I’ll shoot to kill”, “dead men do not tell tales”, or “move out of your liberal state and move to Texas where we shoot ‘em” will not be permitted. This list is intended to be illustrative and is not all-inclusive.
ST&T is in effect a “one room school house” in which experienced and new “students” can learn together and share knowledge. Many of our members have less knowledge and less experience than others. We do not want anyone put off by a curt or critical response to a legitimate question. Serious questions deserve serious answers. Personal attacks on other members will not be tolerated.
Everyone who posts here or anywhere else on the Internet should understand that such posts are permanent, and they may be subject to discovery in legal proceedings at any time in the future. Should any member ever find himself or herself involved in such proceedings, posts containing comments that could be interpreted unfavorably could prove damaging.
A final comment on conduct and decorum: Think twice and post once.
Concerning the Law
The legality of actions suggested or advocated here is an essential part of the discussion.
It is incumbent upon everyone who carries a firearm to familiarize himself or herself with the relevant laws in their jurisdiction and anywhere else where they may be carrying.
While the basic principles of the laws pertaining to self defense are essentially comparable in all fifty states, there are significant differences among the details. Many of the differences lie in “castle doctrines”, which exist in some states as codified in law and in others as established in court decisions, and which differ in important detail; in other some jurisdictions, they are not provided for at all. It is essential to know and understand what applies where one lives.
We will provide a few generalities for those new to the subject of self defense:
In general, deadly force may be lawfully employed only when it is immediately necessary to defend oneself or a third person in the case of imminent danger of death or serious bodily harm.
In some jurisdictions, deadly force may be used to prevent specific serious felonies; these vary among jurisdictions.
In most jurisdictions, deadly force may not be used to protect property.
The threatening display of a weapon by a civilian is unlawful except under extenuating circumstances, which vary by jurisdiction.
It is unlawful to shoot a fleeing felon except under the rarest of circumstances.
While a citizens arrest, or its equivalent, is sometimes allowed under certain circumstances, there are limitations in criminal law, and little or no protection in civil law for anyone other than a sworn officer. The civilian may employ deadly force when it is immediately necessary to protect and defend, but not to enforce the law.
In some jurisdictions, deadly force may be used to prevent specific serious felonies; these vary among jurisdictions.
In most jurisdictions, deadly force may not be used to protect property.
The threatening display of a weapon by a civilian is unlawful except under extenuating circumstances, which vary by jurisdiction.
It is unlawful to shoot a fleeing felon except under the rarest of circumstances.
While a citizens arrest, or its equivalent, is sometimes allowed under certain circumstances, there are limitations in criminal law, and little or no protection in civil law for anyone other than a sworn officer. The civilian may employ deadly force when it is immediately necessary to protect and defend, but not to enforce the law.
In this Internet age, many people have found it is easy to search for and read the state criminal codes. A warning is in order: trying to interpret a particular law in isolation by using lay dictionary definitions can lead to erroneous conclusions. Case law—decisions rendered by high courts in the interpretation of the laws—and relationships among other pertinent laws and constitutional principles can have as much to do with the real meaning of the law as the words in a single statute.
For this reason, we strongly discourage the rote cutting and pasting into posts of state legal codes to support one’s position in a discussion here, and we advise against the reliance on same to justify the lawfulness of a particular course of action.
Such reliance is particularly dangerous when it comes to justifying the use of deadly force. The use of a weapon, and even its display by a civilian in many circumstances, is normally an unlawful act. Relying upon a layman’s interpretation of the code to justify the use of a weapon is usually not a good idea. Probably the safest philosophy is that a deadly weapon should be used only when it is immediately necessary and when there is no alternative.
In a similar vein, trying to obtain legal advice over the Internet is not a good strategy.
Once more, what is posted here is public and permanent. You do not want to publish anything on ST&T, where it may be made available to plaintiffs and investigators, that you should more properly tell only to an attorney in confidence in a privileged legal communication.
Training
Few in our civilized society are accustomed to physical violence. Neither the mental preparation for, the physical proficiency in, nor the legal principles governing the lawful use of force in self defense is instinctive. They must be studied, learned, and practiced.
Self defense incidents, when the need cannot be prevented, almost always unfold rapidly. Having a well developed and practiced skillset can make all of the difference between success and the serious consequences of failure. Obtaining sound instruction from respected and knowledgeable trainers can be the best investment that an armed citizen can make.
Those who have taken training applicable to self defense have quickly learned that shooing at targets at a gun range is not the same thing at all, and that the professional training provided knowledge, skills, and experience far beyond what they had learned on their own. There are training resources available in many locations. We will strive to maintain a current list for the benefit of THR members. Those who discover new resources are strongly encouraged to contact us so we can share what you have learned.
Maintaining the High Standards of the Strategies, Tactics & Tactics Forum
The assigned ST&T Moderators, and the Moderators of other THR fora, monitor and review postings to the best of our ability. When we come upon posts that do not meet the standards set forth here, we will edit or delete the offending message. The member responsible may lose his or her posting privileges.
However, we cannot screen everything in real time. We ask that forum members who notice questionable posts use the report function to alert the THR staff.
We encourage the use of private messages to the moderators to ask questions or make suggestions. In addition, PMs between forum members can be used for to continue side discussions that need not be public.
For further explanation of expected behavior on THR, please read the forum rules at http://www.thehighroad.org/code-of-conduct.html .
Last edited by a moderator:
