Guides

These guides are the actual training materials used in in-person firearms safety classes in Texas, covering everything from selecting your first handgun to starting your own range day. Have questions or feedback? Contact us at contact@armyourfriends.com.
How to Choose Body Armor (A Guide to "Bullet Proof Vests")
The Real Guide to “Bulletproof Vests” and Body Armor Most people use the term “bulletproof vest” without realizing it is technically incorrect. No personal armor is truly bulletproof. Body armor is designed to resist specific ballistic threats based on tested standards, and nothing stops every possible bullet under every condition. This article explains what body armor actually is, what the key terms mean, how different materials behave, and why some options commonly marketed online are not safe for civilians. It is U.S.-focused and practical for real-world safety thinking. This article... Read more...
How to Store Your Weapons Safely: A Practical Guide for Responsible Owners
How to Store Your Weapons Safely: A Practical Guide for Responsible Owners
How to Safely Store Firearms: A Practical Guide for Responsible Owners Safe firearm storage is not about fear, politics, or optics. It is about responsibility. A firearm that is not... Read more...
SLIP 2000: MAINTENANCE, RESPONSIBILITY, AND WHY CLEANING YOUR FIREARM MATTERS
Discipline is Maintenance: Why We Partner With SLIP 2000 Owning a firearm isn't just about training; it’s about discipline. A weapon you don't maintain is a weapon you cannot trust. For community defense, responsible carry, and everyday readiness, maintenance is part of the job. That’s why we partner with SLIP 2000. Their lubricants, cleaners, and carbon cutters are the industry standard for shooters who need their equipment to work every single time. Why Cleaning Matters A clean firearm is a reliable firearm. Consistent maintenance: Reduces malfunctions and cycles smoother. Extends... Read more...
ALIEN GEAR HOLSTERS: RELIABLE, AFFORDABLE, AND READY FOR REAL-WORLD COMMUNITY DEFENSE
Your Holster is Your Lifeline: Why We Trust Alien Gear Carrying a firearm is about control, consistency, and confidence. None of that matters if your holster fails. For community organizers and those dedicated to real-world defense, a dependable holster is as essential as the weapon itself. Alien Gear has proven to be one of the most reliable and accessible makers in the game. They build gear that holds up under stress without the "tactical tax" of $400 price tags or 8-week lead times. The Core Lineup: Readiness for Every Scenario... Read more...
How to Pick Your First Rifle
Choosing your first rifle does not need to be intimidating, political, or performative. At its core, a firearm is a tool. It is a method of delivering a bullet to a specific destination safely, predictably, and under your control. This guide is written for the United States, with particular attention to Texas, where we teach and train regularly. Laws, availability, and training culture vary widely across the country, so context matters. What works well in Texas may require modification in other states. This article is not legal advice. Always verify... Read more...