As I write this, gun and ammo sales continue to increase at an impressive rate. The causes for this are certainly varied, but one cause is the fear that our economy will collapse and we will be in another depression. As with the last one, guns and gear will be hard to find, assuming that one has the money to afford them.
While stocking up on guns and ammo seems to make good sense, the defensive shooter should not overlook the importance of having replacement parts for the guns that will protect family and home. Murphy's Law says that stuff will break at the most inopportune moments and, for this reason, it is important to have replacement parts on hand.
As an example, for the 1911 I like to have an extra firing pin, firing pin spring, an extractor, a couple of mainsprings, a sear and several recoil springs on hand. Recoil springs, as you know, should be replaced every 1,000 to 2,000 rounds to keep from battering the pistol. Small parts that are easily lost would be another important item to stock. The plate that holds the firing pin in place can get away from you, as can stock screws and stock-screw bushings.
Obviously, one can't keep a stock of parts for every gun he owns, so it is important to decide on the defense guns you most rely on and make sure that you can keep them running during times of economic and social troubles. It is also a good idea to discuss the matter with a gunsmith, as he should know which parts are most commonly broken in a particular gun. Obviously, he is also your source for ordering replacement parts while they are still available.
Taking time to inventory your parts requirements is just as important as buying ammo and accessories. Remember, as times get hard, crime can be expected to go up. Make sure those defense guns are in good working order and you are capable of keeping them that way. The lives of you and your family may depend on it.
I choose to believe this is a direct result of citizens being allowed to carry defensive handguns. However, the sad truth is that the reduction in violent crime will change if our economy continues on the downward spiral that it seems to be in.
One merely has to look at the history of the Great Depression to see indications of this fact. As times get tough, many people will resort to acts that they would not ordinarily consider. Remember, it was that same depression that spawned the likes of John Dillinger, Pretty Boy Floyd, and Bonnie & Clyde. One may reasonably expect burglaries, armed robberies and carjacking to begin to increase.
Many of us might say, "Well, that sort of thing has never been much of a problem in our town." But we have to realize that desperate people will often resort to desperate acts, most of which are not good. It is time for the armed citizen to begin to bear down on the principles of self-defense.
Don't continue to put off the family gatherings to discuss your personal-defensive plan. Get that professional training you have been thinking about scheduling. Find ways to increase your awareness as you go about your daily chores. And set up a regular program of practice. If you have a problem with acquiring ammunition, don't forget the great success that can come from dry practice right there in your home. All of these are things that we have discussed on numerous occasions. But, when things begin to get really bad, their importance increases dramatically.
I am not trying to be a doomsday prophet. In fact, nothing would please me more than to find out that none of this has become a reality. But, my concern is that the whole scenario is likely enough that we should be prepared.
Hope for the best, but plan for the worst.
