Cruiser Ready: How to Store a Home Defense Shotgun [2020 Update]

Today we're revisiting our most popular video ever -- a tutorial on how to keep your home defense shotgun ready for use. We suggest the "cruiser ready" condition, and the original video explained what that means and a few of the whys. But in the years since that original post, you guys have responded with a ton of questions (and critiques, criticisms, and comments), so we're going back to address some of those.
Watch the original 2016 Version here: • Cruiser Ready: How to ...
More about the short-barreled Remington 870: • Short and Stout: Remin...
More about the Beretta 1301: • Beretta 1301 Tactical ...
Watch our whole series on home defense shotguns: • Home Defense Shotgun
Support our channel. Buy ammo from Lucky Gunner!

[@bolt.22]

I called my mom and explained the benefits of being cruiser ready. She asked me not to call again.

[@billpeart]

"Cruiser ready", describes some of the old men that hang out at rest stops!!!

[@bolt.22]

@@billpeart ....I assumed that's what we were talking about... gotta watch this video closer

[@billpeart]

@@bolt.22 LMAO

[@traxiii]

I thought it was referring to "working girls" waiting at the gates of Navy base when the fleet comes in.

[@bolt.22]

@@traxiii sounds like you fella's just like different chapters of the same book...

[@romanstravels6390]

I swear you guys really are some of the actual normal people making quality firearm videos that’s not doing random bullsh*t or trying to be full of memes so thank you for professionalism, you gained a subscriber 👍

[@bigdog33bad]

Agree 100%

[@themeanlesbeann]

Exactly. I subbed cause this channel doesn't spew hate, politics, or faux military operator malarkey.

[@bunk95]

Professionalism? Thats fictional and used to market slaves. Humans dont thank for human slaves.

[@rogerloess2379]

Well said

[@CarlPapa88]

They (& Chris) really are pretty professional.

[@felixh2786]

I really appreciate that you emphasize the defense aspect of home defense. Some people seem to treat the home invasion scenario like it's an active combat zone where you kill anything that moves, when really it's just about keeping yourself and your loved ones safe.

[@rangersmith4652]

Amen. The element of surprise is for attack, not defense.

[@OMGWUNSIU]

Bullshit, if someone has entered my home it’s certainly not for any good reason. They will be given an opportunity to SURRENDER PEACEFULLY and ANYTHING other than immediately complying with an order to freeze and take a knee will result in a subsequent visit by medical personnel and perhaps the county coroner. They are NOT leaving the house unless they are in police handcuffs or on a stretcher. Keeping your family safe means bad guys need to know they entered the wrong home - period. Active combat zone… I like that and that’s exactly what it is until the enemy has surrendered or been taken into custody or the threat has been ended. This isn’t Mary Poppins time, it war! If you don’t want a war then don’t start one. I keep huge, strong plastic zip ties by my bed as well as my tools…

[@Nostradankus]

@@OMGWUNSIU Yeah, maybe ease off the /k/ool Aid.

[@OMGWUNSIU]

@@Nostradankus You do what you want and I will do what I want how about that?

[@gameragodzilla]

@@OMGWUNSIU Is this a copypasta?

[@miletello1]

I agree with all points. Another main reason I stow my 870 in cruiser ready is because I'm a police officer. I didn't want a different manual of arms for retrieving the weapon on and off duty. If I grab the gun, I know I need to charge it whether I'm at work or home.

[@miletello1]

@Bill Edith ah yes the good ole amber status

[@bunk95]

Police are fictional. Do you think and act as if thats untrue? Only act as if thats untrue?

[@FerociousSniper]

And that's exactly why mine is red. I trained to keep one in the chamber and keep it on safe.

[@RealMenRealStyle]

Solid vid - great points on why no round in the chamber (especially with kids and animals in the house!). Oh....and get more Ammo in stock! I am running under 5K rounds!

[@northernninety7]

Why am I seeing you on other channels all of a sudden?

[@northernninety7]

@abradolf lincler Hes also on Garand Thumbs new video.

[@northernninety7]

@abradolf lincler Im seeing familiar channels on gun channels today. Perhaps they want to support the 2A with the election coming up?

[@JohnW-yv6yp]

Real Men Real Style Wow, I’m subbed to your channel, never had your figured for a gun guy lol.

[@kevindouglas8166]

@@JohnW-yv6yp check out his old (just updated) article for dressing well with a concealed carry www.artofmanliness.com/articles/guide-to-concealed-carry/

[@MaxwellAerialPhotography]

My home defence procedures: “Alexa, battle stations.” **Lights go on to red, Mick Gordon Doom Rip & Tear plays at max volume.”** Now they can’t hear me racking a shotgun.

[@Matt.Gillard]

Great music choice!

[@steelwolf6910]

If u actually did that please record it , it would be the coolest video

[@jaydudeman4363]

Hard bodied

[@markh.6687]

"Rommie, activate shipwide internal defenses!"

[@DeflocksLabs]

I have google but did this same thing “ Ok Google, It’s showtime!” All hue lights turn on, change color to red, change brightness to 100%, all google speakers play Mick Gordon “Rip & Tear” at 75% volume.

[@JohnChoidotOrg]

That is a sweet looking Beretta semi-auto.

[@kniter01]

Should look at the 1301 LTT

[@cleasonleasure4832]

My first line of defense is a Rottweiler gets spooked easily. I used to carry my 590 in my truck, when I lived in the peoples Republic of New York. Rochester sector.

[@notme1998]

Italian make sexy stuff, it be guns, cars or women

[@fredfredburger5583]

Beretta 1301. I own one and hands down the best shotgun I ever shot. It's pricey but you won't be disappointed. The one he's holding has another 400 worth of add-ons not including the aimpoint which is another 700. Mine is stock but I will add that same magpul stock and forend in time. The ltt model is one already suited up but you can add them on your own

[@vanbarnard8700]

@@cleasonleasure4832 van

[@MyRanger12]

Chris you are so well spoken, I love seeing someone who is normal and not a Operator want a be.

[@subjer0]

14:42 Great points. Homeowners don't harden their entry points but think having a shotgun or an AR-15 is all they need to be safe. If a home invader can kick down your door with one kick, you're already behind the curve. Also people who openly advertise they own guns by having bumper stickers with AR-15s and glock logos are just advertising they have guns to loot. The bad guys will just wait for you to leave for work and then break in and steal all your guns. Owning guns is not the be all end all for self defense of your home. It's a tool, a layer of last resort.

[@NotTheBomb]

Agree 100% with the gun advertising. Had two homes in my neighborhood get broken in to last year where the only thing taken was firearms.

[@pedrowhack-a-mole6786]

The greatest example of this is the NRA sticker. People just don't think when putting this on their car that they might be making themselves into a target for theft.

[@ludoka58leo]

Good points...I have pealed all the overtly gun stickers off my car...We live in a condo complex with primarily senior citizens...frankly, I don't even trust "grandpa" not to dox me to the bad guys...

[@jota6262]

Bumper stickers of any kind are a bad idea but those that connected to firearms are especially ill-advised. Why give your adversary a heads-up?

[@chadpendt2863]

Built my home with reinforced doors AND door frames. Best steel core door in the world with all the deadbolts don't mean shit if the whole thing rips out of the door frame. I have a ¼in thick aluminum C-channel reinforcing the wood frame and deadbolt holes. Embedded in the concrete foundation itself. At some point you'll have to ask if its easier to knock down my wall.

[@Nilokotayo]

Police officers called it “Cruiser Ready” we in the military calls it, “Condition 3 weapon”. Good presentation and very informative. I just want to add and tell everyone to periodically check the stored shotgun ammunition inside the magazine tube. These shotgun rounds, if stored inside the magazine tubes for a long period of time, tends to stick to each. The plastic part of the shells gets damaged by keeping it for a long period of time inside the tube if not use. Sometimes the tube spring crimps the shells for so long that cracks the plastic part of the shotgun shells or deform it. Weather or temperature conditions can create this problem and may cause a firearm malfunction. I’ve seen this problem before and it’s good to let everyone know. MA1 USN

[@NavySWO]

How long is okay to store shells in tube before swapping out with fresh ammo? 6 months, a year, longer? Appreciate the advice.

[@Nilokotayo]

@@NavySWO During my time in the armory, we had everyone unload their firearms in the loading barrels everyday as per instructions. During the gulf war I check my firearms anywhere and anytime I have a chance to do it. I’m not sure about the civilian world, but I would not store a loaded shotgun anywhere unless I’m present and ready to use it.

[@bunk95]

Police are fictional. Are you trying to quote slaves marketed as police?

[@DonutVIP]

Ah never knew this, luckily I don't usually keep it loaded, it's only when I'm close by which I am 75 percent of the time, if not, it's case and locked.

[@jbarbeau92]

Hey man, I just want to thank you for doing so much to discourage the kind of paranoid unrealistic fantasies that get innocent people shot because someone didn’t want to ‘give away their position’ or some nonsense like that.

[@papatorr3669]

What? "Paranoid unrealistic fantasies?" I can see it either way, making noise to alert the intruder, or not making noise, but I don't understand how it would be driven by your assertions. I've harvested many a deer by been silent and unseen, but I never felt paranoia, or held unrealistic fantasies.

[@MaxwellAerialPhotography]

@@papatorr3669 home defence is not deer hunting. Just in case you weren’t aware.

[@w.o.jackson8432]

@@papatorr3669 In hunting the target running away is your greatest concern, in home defense it is your greatest desire.

[@papatorr3669]

@@MaxwellAerialPhotography Thank you for clarifying that. I'll confess that I hunted deer for 26 straight years and then on again, off again since then. And I haven't actually had to decide whether to make noise or be quiet during a home invasion. So although I have taken multiple firearms courses, including under Col. Jeff Cooper, I haven't put my training to the test. Happy Home defending!

[@papatorr3669]

@@w.o.jackson8432 Good point. I think my trigger was someone claiming "Paranoid unrealistic fantasies that get innocent people shot." Again, I can see "making noise to alert the intruder" in hopes that he would run away. But then, the instructors I've had taught that in a stressful situation, you will do what you've trained, and I believe what you've practiced. I've practiced stealth, so I'll probably use stealth and draw the target into my sights. I just don't agree that it implies paranoia or fantasies. I guess you and I have different desires...

[@digitalpunk5365]

This guy doesn’t age. Forget about magazine springs.

[@jwyoutube8]

I’m a new gun owner this year, and in sifting through all the firearm channels I was having a lot of trouble finding somewhere with informative videos that don’t pre-assume I’m some longtime veteran. This channel is exactly what I’ve been looking for. In depth videos that a novice can still understand. And no tacticool tone. I’m not a “warrior poet,” I just want to learn more about guns. Plus I’m not a right winger, quite the opposite, and it’s been hard to find somewhere that isn’t casually sneaking in weird anti-left comments all the time. Thanks for making this channel. I‘ve watched nearly every video from the backlog and it’s been incredibly helpful to me. Once ammo is back in stock I will certainly be buying from LGA.

[@12floz67]

I’m glad to hear that you’re trying to learn as much as possible. Good luck be safe and have fun. Cheers 🍻

[@LexHarrison]

--------Concerning siding with today's Marxist Democrats, surely you're kidding aren't you? It's undeniable that where ever draconian anti gun laws are imposed like those we've seen imposed in Venezuela or the former (Marxist) State of the Soviet Union always results in all rights and Civil Liberties being stolen by authoritarian leftist tyrants! Thus Marxist ideology as that touted by Biden and Harris poses an existential threat to the lives safety and welfare of every living American, especially in light of their prioritizing lawless borders and unsafe streets! Lawless borders means a worthless US Dollar and tremendous poverty pervading the entirety of the United States to its assured destruction as a Marxist Globalist Hell that's funded by ex-Nazi collaborator George Soros! -------No American that loves their nation or their Constitutional Freedoms would have anything to do with today's Marxist scum out to destroy this nation! As a predominately Christian Nation the Godless ideology of Marxism will not be tolerated in this nation by America's plurality; therefore guarantying Trump's re-election in, 2020, as divinely prophesied! -------Trump's rise to a two term Presidency was divinely prophesied by Christ's proven, 911, prophet of accuracy Kim Clement! It was Clement's, 911, prophecy five years before its occurrence that brought Secret Service Agents interviewing Clement after the tragic events of, 911, that bodes extremely well for Trump's re-election in, 2020!

[@rumporridge1]

@@LexHarrison well said.

[@shaunsnow192]

@@LexHarrison this was the funniest thing I’ve read in a bit, thanks for the laugh. You fucking goober.

[@thewhistlingfish13]

You showing me the ghost loading of the 1301 was pretty much what I was googling for. I have an A300 Ultima Patrol but same scenario. Thank you!

[@OU812NVME]

No, what it is most can afford shotguns and your video was one of the most detailed. Thank you for your knowledge and time.

[@powder.4030]

my grandpa´s shotgun a Browning Auto 5 from early 1920´s it almost 100 years and fire pretty good no spring problems ever... greetings from Chile

[@Juicetheeunuch]

I found some of the comments regarding spring tension to be very interesting. Thank you for the humble admissions of error or exaggeration. Not common among youtubers or commentors.

[@msm9430]

In my fantasy world you Sir are Paul Harrell's son. Big fan of both you guys. I've learned a lot. I also indulge in the rants of other gun channels but you folks are a class apart. Thorough gentlemen.

[@alexanderweaver4838]

Thank you, Chris. Great video. During these pandemic days it's crucial to "beef up" security around your home. Our city is experiencing an inordinate amount of shootings on the streets (gun fights), killings and drive-by random indiscriminate shootings into homes. Children sleeping in bed have been shot. Back in January I began beefing up security around my home with multiple motion detector lights on all sides of the house and in nearby trees; included are porch lights that automatically come on when motion is detected ten feet away. I have automatic camp lanterns at each door just inside that both light up and sound a loud beep. My windows are high and it would take a ladder to access them. My weapons are readily accessible but secured (no children in our household, both retired); chambers are empty but I've practiced the preparation scenario at least once a week. My bedside flashlight is very high lumen and blinding. So far we've not experienced any issues of violence in our neighborhood but in less than a mile is a major thoroughfare where a lot of shootings occur.

[@mattmanbrownbro]

Many of us who still rent don't have the option of hardening the entry points to the home, so we do appreciate videos like this

[@maxinelouchis7272]

A good refresher and update on one of your more important videos. I think the dog early warning system works on many levels. Thank Chris.

[@mikeylikesit6588]

Legit scared a ghost away with the racking of my shotgun. I have a witness. Never underestimate that sound.

[@dustycomfort2735]

I learn continuously through the years. Yourself and Paul Harrell are my favorite. Your shotgun and home defense vids have shown me things That can save my loved ones lives and mine as well. Thank You for doing what you do.

[@jarzu3555]

I did call my mom and she was happy to hear from me :)

[@PeterJames143]

me too

[@mrswack-io6fn]

Me three

[@reedkellner6447]

@@mrswack-io6fn four. Thanks, Chris. You were right.

[@spiderman9140]

I recommend it, I've kept talking to my mom and it's made both of us happier :D If your mom isn't a shitty person definitely keep in touch.

[@thomaskane6351]

She told me she was calling her lawyer and the police. Some folks just never lighten up.

[@victorhsiao8020]

I appreciate that your explanation is objectively based and well thought out to avoid confusion. Thank you for leaving out opinion while still keeping your videos interesting, educational, and very enlightening! I’m a fan!!!

[@daytonagreg8765]

Slow down invaders? LIGHTS, LIGHTS, & LIGHTS. Bad guys don’t like lighted anything. Best first layer IMHO. Motion detector lights & even cameras are pretty cheap now.

[@kirk2767]

I installed a digital timer for my front outside light. You can get ones that self-adjust for time of year, and also your latitude and longitude. As for motion-sensors, I installed one for my front hallway light, so it turns on whenever I come in. Incredibly convenient, as I'm often carrying groceries and whatnot.

[@MrLeo7627]

Their are certain Dogs that only bark when their is new noises or smells , they also change their bark in proportion to a threat . They can do all this through walls & doors .

[@Great_Wall_of_Text]

Ditto. I had an uninvited visitor three times in three weeks. Motion alarms scared them off twice. The third time they got into my shed and left big filthy hand prints on stuff. No alarm there. Nothing stolen. I guess they didn't want my two man auger. I spent $80 on motion lights and they haven't tripped an interior alarm since. No sign in the shed either. The lights used to go off a couple times a night, but that has dried up too. It's probably just some idiot kids, so I'm glad they ran off while I was grabbing my gun, and I'm double glad the lights scared them off entirely. Lights are darn handy too. Good for taking out the trash.

[@subjer0]

Lights don't really stop or slow daytime home burglars. The only thing that slows them down are hardened entry points like upgraded door strike plates with screws that are more than 3 inches into the door frame.

[@ryanbernard6550]

I keep telling people this as a locksmith and it blows my mind how quick they are to dismiss this when trying to buy a full set of high end locks for +$1000. seriously people you don't need high security locks unless you have you house built for it. first step is proper motion activated lighting at least.

[@isaaclux2128]

R.I.P. Remington. Personally I'm a Mossberg guy but yeah, rest in peace.

[@joshboyfuture9698]

Why's that?

[@redswift31]

Tf happened now?

[@titanscerw]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/qam6gKKIpL2njs0

[@mattmarzula]

Good riddance.

[@jereuter01]

Personally I'm a Winchester SPX Defender guy.

[@userJohnSmith]

Always nice to see someone make the point that guns are mechanical things and have failure points. Failure points that can easily be dealt with without compromising their usability.

[@TarekMidani]

It's crazy how many people overthink a scenario that's so unlikely. Your first video was already more in depth than I need to get 👌 Keep it up

[@chipoc4917]

A reason why some police departments use(d) the 'cruiser ready' condition with the magazine underloaded by one round is for 'select slug' events. With this method, shotguns are loaded with four shells of buckshot in a five round magazine. If the officer determines that buckshot is the correct choice upon rolling up on an incident, a round of buck is pumped into the chamber. If the officer later determines that slug is necessary, there is room in the magazine to pull a slug off the side saddle, push it into the magazine, then pump it into the chamber utilizing the slide release (ejecting the unspent buck). If, however, the officer upon rolling up on the scene determines that slug is the right choice, a slug can be immediately pulled off the side saddle, pushed into the underloaded magazine, and pumped into the chamber. With the underloaded 'cruiser ready' shotgun, this eliminates the need to pump a round of buckshot into the chamber to create room in the magazine to load slug before pumping the shotgun again to chamber the slug (and ejecting the unspent buck). Topping off the magazine with either slug or buck can then continue as the officer sees fit, as the incident continues to evolve. It's also worth noting that some departments opted to eliminate buckshot altogether because of pattern overspreading at distance. It simultaneously eliminated the buck/slug decision branch in the officer's shotgun employment process. This coincidentally eliminates the need to underload a shotgun in 'cruiser ready' condition.

[@9ZERO6]

The over spreading issue is solved the Flight control Federal ammo. Tight groups at any distance that is appropriate for shotgun use.

[@bunk95]

Police departments are fictional. Do you think and act as if thats untrue? Only act as if thats untrue?

[@tombusa32]

That door you just kicked-in was Locked for Your protection ... Not mine!💥💥

[@richardefriend]

Here's something I recently did to 'harden the inside' of my home: between the main living area of the home and the bedroom area is an ordinary passage door, presumably installed because the 2 areas are on separate A/C zones. I installed a bathroom lock on that door so that I can use it to lock down the bedroom area, presumably to give better protection to the area the family is most likely to be in at night. Since the door opens outward, it can't easily be kicked in. So for the price of a simple bathroom lock, I've added another level of security. If the door opened in the direction where it could be kicked in, I might have installed a more solid door. Obviously this only works on homes that are sectionalized.

[@GdaySport]

That's a great idea.

[@vpv68vpv]

Unless that’s an exterior style door (solid wood or metal clad) that door is worth a lot less than you might think. Most interior doors are hollow core, and what’s more newer ones are made out of basically structurally stabilized cardboard. If the door doesn’t feel heavy when you open the door it shouldn’t be considered a security feature. If it is an exterior style door that sounds like a neat feature, I’d make sure to replace the hinge screws and the latch plate screws with 3-1/2” structural screws so that they bite into the 2x4 framing rather than just the thin pine door frame.

[@richardefriend]

@@vpv68vpv I'm not looking for total security--just enough time for me to ponder which weapon from my arsenal I'm going to deploy, put on hearing protection (electrified head phones), maybe some boat shoes, take it off safety (unless it's already off), turn on the laser(s) and light, and then wait for the door to be opened. SURPRISE!!!

[@vpv68vpv]

Christopher Marlowe that’s true, but being informed about the true construction of an assumed security feature is important. Understanding that the door will take mere seconds to breach rather than minutes might inform the decision about how a defensive firearm is stored (quick access safe vs slow access safe) for example. Nothing is impenetrable, for sure.

[@vpv68vpv]

Richard Friend sounds good! I just know that not everyone has experience with the actual construction of homes and doors, most people think things are much sturdier than they really are. I’m a bit jealous, that sounds like a neat house feature but my house is split level so I have bedrooms on multiple levels and it wouldn’t work. Stay safe!

[@zh3401]

Good work. While in service I carried the Mossberg 590A1. Frequent PM/CS ensures even that inexpensive model served for many years without a failure. Those that believe the noise of chambering a round will deter a felon likely believe brandishing a weapon will as well. Four large German Shepard dogs are my promary deterent, FN SLP is my back up.

[@brianrivers6947]

Love your channel! I keep my shotgun cruiser ready in my home. It’s not worth having a accidental charge and one of the kids getting hurt. Your home is not a war zone and you’re not clearing rooms no need to keep a round in the chamber

[@shj2000]

Another nice presentation. I appreciate the inclusion of semi auto shotguns in this update. Good stuff. Thank you.

[@wordkyle]

One of, if not THE best instructional video on shotguns for home defense. I have a shotgun for my primary home defense weapon, and this video has been immensely helpful. Sensible and not made for the gung ho kill-everything-that-moves mentality.

[@ralphalvarez5465]

We call it "patrol ready" but it's the same concept. Also work on weapon retention if a bad guy grabs the weapon and mount a flashlight if you can. My Mossberg 590A1 has a storage tube on the stock but it's hard to get extra rounds out in a controlled situation. I find a shotgun shell sleeve is easier and works well at night. Good luck out there and great tips on "hardening" your home.

[@neillstephenson5482]

How many rounds are you going to fire during this home invasion? 😂 You live at the Alamo?

[@bunk95]

A fictional thing is going to grab a weapon you possess? How?

[@bronsonwhite611]

I applaud the way you re-addressed this video and the questions/comments it received.

[@mountainview540]

Thanks for the advice I have an old 870 wing master that's at least 50 years old. I always look forward to your content

[@jeramyw]

* 870 wing master * Does it have no letter prefix? Those were the originals.

[@vitaly6312]

I’ll buy it if you’re willing to sell it :-)

[@jeramyw]

@@vitaly6312 I'll buy it for $5 more than you.

[@pharmis]

Great video: informative, you do a great job of admitting when you are wrong, evidence-based, and not being hung up on ego

[@ron-yv4jx]

I do appreciate the update. I am pretty savvy when it comes to Firearms and i had no idea that Shotguns do not have a drop safety on them. I have passed these videos on to everyone i know that have or go around Firearms. Great videos, you may of saved a life or lives. Thank You

[@bunk95]

If its made to [release] the firing pin when impacted by specific forces it will when those forces impact the weapon. Dont you check your tools before use?

[@ReasonablySkeptic]

There is always some reason for someone to be offended online. EVERYTHING you explained was clean, logical, and dare i say intuitive. So thank you for the video and don't sweat the occasional upset commenters.

[@kevinlittell3433]

Wow... A firearm video I completely agree with. Rare! Empty chamber cause a little one cannot usually rack it. The pistols only function is to fight your way back to your shotgun. The shotguns function is to clear the house... And if you have to go outside grab the carbine not the shotgun. Great video! Subscibed!

[@druwk]

Appreciate your practical, real world approach, and lack of extreme political paranoia that many other KZbin gun sites seem to have? Not giving these weapons the respect they deserve results in accidental deaths and/or tragedy. Stay safe everyone.

[@lanceskopik2928]

Hey guys I actually knew someone that had a shotgun go off without the trigger being pulled , so dont live paranoid but it does happen . Guy showed up at the house , he met him with the shotgun on his door, verbal debate and he slammed the but stock down hitting the ground to make his point . That's wat it took . Be safe guys

[@joejoelesh1197]

Lance Skopik verbal debate over because both of them went deaf.

[@MTB-ENG]

@@joejoelesh1197 and the home owner lost half his face

[@lanceskopik2928]

@@MTB-ENG yea he didnt make it . What's really sad is his dad walked outside with him to keep him calm, so it happened in front of his dad. It messed him up for a long time.

[@MTB-ENG]

@@lanceskopik2928 I'm sorry to hear that. It is a good thing to keep in mind when handling a shotgun with one chambered.

[@chrisf247]

You consistently have some of the best thought-out videos on these topics, don't let nit-pickers get you down. (Also, it's not nit-picking when I do it... it's contributing to a robust conversation on the topic!)

[@rangersmith4652]

Great update! I completely agree regarding the tacticool idea of not wanting to give away your position. People who think that way have watched too many movies or have forgotten that defending your home is way different from clearing a house. Surprise is an offensive element, not a defensive one. (They make this element of surprise argument against open carry as well, and it's equally invalid there.) In my bedroom I keep a Browning pump gun in cruiser ready and a .45 auto with a full magazine, slide locked back, safety off. Both conditions are just fine for home defense because I will hear a forced entry, as will half the neighborhood, and I'll have plenty of time to get my gun of choice and make it ready to fire. A person who gains entry to my home in the night is going to be greeted by a cacophony of sound, and if for some reason the alarm fails to go off, he will hear that round being racked in, either by the pump cycling or by the slide slamming forward, and he will hear me shout a warning. One of those sounds is going to convince all but the most single-minded bad guy--one who's after me, not my stuff--to seek an easier target. Remember, the guy did not break into your home to get shot, and he will work very hard to avoid that outcome.

[@bunk95]

Youre gonna have to explain way more than you can in order for another to learn from your comment. Want to discuss methods of torture to get you to do so?

[@rangersmith4652]

@@bunk95 Two years go by, and suddenly a response saying my comment isn't clear or useful?

[@gregv2821]

Your videos are always top-notch. I LOVE your content.

[@bobrowley4346]

The added benefit of keeping the tube downloaded by 1 is that if you keep slugs in the saddle in addition to buck, you maintain the option of loading a slug into the tube and cycling the action to get it chambered should you need it.

[@theearwyrm6105]

Great video, and very sound reasoning for cruiser ready.

[@troybingham6426]

OK I actually did call my mother. Entirely because of this. No joke.

[@freedtmg16]

you said a lot of practical things. thanks once again for providing a lot ofinsight in a straightforward manner to make it easier for noobs like myself to garner information on the basics.

[@thelz7909]

From an engineering point of view, the only way I see for shotgun magazine tubes can be damaged from long periods of compression are: a) something other than and inferior to genuine spring steel was used; b) there is a design flaw which causes the spring to be compressed beyond what it was designed to handle without deformation; c) some other damage such as corrosion has occurred. Experts such as Jerry Miculek are on record as saying they inspect their magazine tube springs on a regular basis by comparing the length to a known new spring and they proactively replace the spring on a regular basis. That does imply that shotgun magazine tubes were not designed for the same conditions as handgun magazine springs.

[@marcelodepaula6665]

Excellent video with professional and very useful information. Regards from Uruguay

[@Lalalunatix]

I think its a great idea to update videos. Good job Chris, a lot of channels should do this to improve information. With that said most people see the shotgun as the best for home defense and look for this info. The more info the better especially in these times, with all the new owners. Thank you for this content.

[@bunk95]

Home defense is fictional. Are you trying to discuss killing humans at specific ranges?

[@ZETSUEN26]

I love all the 12g content, my primary go to and most people snooze on the shotgun

[@Mrgunsngear]

Thanks

[@sawyerramos3113]

shotguns have always been my favorites!

[@DustlessMirror]

I’ve learned a lot from Lucky 🍀 Gunner vids thanks Chris for giving me training drills to practice, which ammo to choose for my needs and a page of notes for using my 870 👍🏼

[@yobabybubba]

I call my mom everyday. Very helpful video. Thank you.

[@ferretapocalypse]

I can vouch for the drop fire. My dad blew a chunk of his arm off when pulling a shotty from the top shelf of his closet and it fell on the butt.

[@SpoolinVR]

Ouch

[@ColonizerChan]

Ouch, hope he is okay these days

[@scottamy6496]

Great updates and this is exactly how I keep my HD shotgun at home...I also have my AR loaded and ready, plus my G19 and Hellcat both at the ready. Locked and secured doors and windows with motion activated outdoor lights and cameras at the front and rear of our home definitely adds to deterrent of the badguys

[@DD-su2qq]

I don't remember ever in the past 20 year not having 20 gauge amm in my local gun store.

[@gabeelkins9059]

Yeah, 20 gauges is never sold out with the possible exception of waterfowl loads

[@snafuequals]

20 was basically gone near me but there was still a bit of 12

[@mikeylikesit6588]

Reloading shotgun shells is soooo cheap and easy. Glad I got into it a couple years ago.

[@snafuequals]

@@mikeylikesit6588 They're already dirt cheap, my guy. What's the point?

[@cleasonleasure4832]

Ive got 400 rds of 20, 75 defensive, slugs and buck. Shoot clays with a Winchester defender sxp , and my 590. With the 20 you have to get on them fast. Shot barrel improves your aim.

[@BillByrd74]

I never really considered cruiser safe. Never knew about it. I like the concept! Just subscribed to your channel. Clicked the BELL also.

[@wespeacock793]

"Just For Men" approved!

[@russellhogan2708]

Excellent as usual, Chris. Thank you. I look forward to the lever action video.

[@mslauralee6478]

Thank you, this Mom appreciated this update and YES we Mom’s would love to hear from you ♥️

[@DLionheart]

TYVM for this! This pistol owner is brand new to this sort of firearm that I just picked up yesterday = Mossberg 590 Shockwave in 20 gauge w/Crimson Trace Laser Saddle. So I've been reading articles and watching videos = before I selected that firearm and since I got it. ~'Watched your first video re this and now here for the updated version. Your instructions are clear, concise and they make total, practical sense! I learned much, hence I am adhering to your words of wisdom. In addition, there are other sensible, experienced gun owners out there who are saying the very same things in their videos that I've watched. I now feel much more informed about my new firearm and I thank you so very much! ~~P.S. Not everyone has a mother that they wish to speak with. Just sayin'. 😂😉'Very nice sentiment however, for those blessed w/lovely mothers.😊

[@bunk95]

You think you can and do own? Didnt you learn, in [school], that slaves dont own and citizens are fictional? Are you practicing killing humans with that pistol? If so, which ones? Learn to set up kill boxes yet? Reminded that law enforcement and healthcare professional/etc. are fictional things?

[@atech9020]

I am of the camp that if you have a gun solely for the purpose of self-defense, it needs to be ready to go without any precursory actions. Charging the weapon is an extra action; this extra action takes time, announces your position and intent, and also adds one more skill or " practice " that you cannot foul up. In a home defense situation, there is probably something to be said about the sound of a Mossberg clacking a shell into the chamber. It WILL instill an oh-shit factor, but the right place at the wrong time doesn't mean that the sound will be effective at making sure the intruder doesn't fire first or find cover and run. If you know you have an intruder, and you do right by the law and ensure you have a legal reason to fire ( you can see the person is armed ), then charging the weapon is a gamble on how badass the intruder actually is. Will they run when they hear the clank, or will they fire? If you are charged and ready at the drop, then saying you need to leave now indicates you know they are there, and if you see a weapon at all, then you are within every right you have to fire upon them. You are oftentimes being awoken or being disturbed from a common task when you are called to make the decision. If you yell get out and you are fired at, or the intruder presents themselves, you better have one in the chamber. You cannot have any moment in time where there is a hold on a half-second while I even the score; you are either first, or you are dead. Statistically, most average citizens only get a small percentage of shots off on target. We probably don't have the statistical data to show how many of them were pre-charged or waited until the moment of action? I do know that we can find videos that show defensive shooters who had to wait, and gave up valuable time to get a shot off because they were not charged and ready. If you don't have the drop, you are the loser. So if you can eliminate the need to charge your weapon and you can come to a point where it's YOUR TURN NOW, then you can go from last to first that quick. If you can't get that opportunity, well it's a crap shot. 99% WILL NEVER have to worry about this, but the few that do probably wish they were better trained, or ready at the drop to handle a situation. We have had the largest gun grab in American history this year. You can bet your sweet kittens booty, that not all of those purchasers are well trained, or well-intended... As a gun owner, you should strive to be proficient in the operation and safety of your weapon. The better you are at it, the less likely someone else is to get lucky. Having a round in the chamber should never be a problem for those that truly treat guns with respect, are always actively training for higher proficiency with all aspects of gun handling, situational awareness, and control.

[@JasonTheMunicipalMechanic]

I agree I don’t want to deal with shooting someone if I don’t have to. It’s not diehard I don’t think I’m giving away my position and the sound of a gun is most likely going to chase someone off that’s the every day criminal. I can’t think of many situations where someone is going to voluntarily enter into a fire fight with me for what they might gain from doing so.

[@Juicetheeunuch]

I'm glad you beefed up you commands. That meek and mild "who is it?" before sounded like a grandma waiting for red robin hood.

[@claytoncarter4071]

Good point. Think I'll still just keep it stacked and take your advice and just start replacing the springs every 3 or 4 years or so. Thumbs up

[@willroberts3753]

My brother one handed “drop pumped” his super nova which resulted in the firearm discharging into the attic of our house.

[@moldyburgers8742]

Nice 👍

[@joejoelesh1197]

“Drop pumped”, what is that? Some sort of stupid party trick?

[@itvirgil]

@@joejoelesh1197 in movies when they one handed pump the shotgun by shaking it up and down real hard. Like Sarah Connor in Terminator 2.

[@kevinsaltz7849]

He might want to have a smith look at it that is not supposed to happen

[@willroberts3753]

Christopher Marlowe he held the gun perpendicularly to the ground with one hand on the pump while it was unlocked. He racked the pump “terminator style” and it discharged

[@notsosilentmajority1]

As a retired LEO I will tell you that you are spot on about making noise and racking the shotgun. Based on experience in which homeowners have had intruders in their home............. "everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face". Of course, I mean that tongue in cheek. Almost every time that an intruder is confronted by someone, especially a male, they flee. Counting on stealth by the average American is not a great idea. Sure, there are people that train and are trained, etc. but the average person is going to be full of adrenaline, fear and anger and may not be able to respond the way they had imagined in their head. Your advice on the topic is the safest way to address the situation and it still will usually keep the homeowner safe.

[@nickgalnares6303]

Shout out to Wolff Gunsprings. They got my great-grandads old Ruger Blackhawk back in order after a spring busted on my dad.

[@chipsterb4946]

They are great. Fine products and superior tech support. A follower upgrade is a good idea as well.

[@papatorr3669]

Good ole video. Professional, factual, and full of great advice.

[@VTPSTTU]

When intruders broke into my house, they picked the locks on the enclosed front porch easily enough. One broke the glass of a French door to a back storage room without me hearing the glass break. I heard noises in those places, but I didn't know what the noises were. I how have motion detectors in that storage room and in the enclosed front porch. When there is motion in those places, I hear chimes in the main living area of my house. I'm not sure that people will always hear the sound of a break-in and recognize that sound. I agree 100% with your advocating a layered system, but I would suggest motion detectors that will produce a chime sound in the place where the homeowner would normally be. Speaking of layered systems, I keep the front door to the enclosed front porch locked. I keep the kitchen door to the storage area where the other intruder entered locked. If either of those doors had been unlocked that night, I'd probably be dead. Again, I agree 100% with your advocacy of a layered system. I see some value in those doorbell systems that have a motion-activated camera that will alert a cell phone if someone is outside. My problem with those devices is that my WiFi and internet service are too slow for them to work at my house. In addition, the wind blows things around my house too much and would produce many false alarms. The deer and the rabbits would also produce too many false alarms. For people with good internet service and not too much motion outside on a typical night, I'd recommend those devices as part of the system. I do have motion lights all over the house now. They don't give me warning usually, but they would dissuade a casual intruder. I agree that someone shooting at the sound of a racking shotgun is a low likelihood event. Making noise is a disadvantage if I'm dealing with someone who is highly skilled and is intent on killing me no matter what. However, I don't believe that I would survive against that person regardless. Against the more typical thugs and trash, giving away my position with a racking shotgun is not going to compromise my home defense strategy. When the intruders broke into my home, I saw the shadow of one of them through the glass of my kitchen window. At that moment, I let out the oddest sound I've ever made. The pitch was too low to be a scream and too high to be a growl. The best description that I can give is that I sounded a little like an insane coyote. At that moment, I was armed only with my cane and a knife that I hadn't even unsheathed. I was still in enough denial that I left my knife sheathed. I was fortunate in that both intruders ran at that sound. If the one in the front had pushed in the door, I would be dead today. My howling didn't necessarily tell them anything. My racking a shotgun would have told them that fleeing was the best choice. For people who have regular security systems, a panic button on a fob is a good thing. Because my WiFi is bad, I haven't found a good system. I still have sirens that I can trigger from a fob. As you mentioned, a homeowner can use the sirens to cover whatever sounds he wants to cover. Personally, I'd rack a shotgun before triggering the siren, but one could reverse those two steps. A side saddle would be a good thing for me to add to keep capacity higher, but I haven't done that. I still somewhat like my shotguns with fewer things on them. I'm clumsy, and more things on any firearm tend to cause me to get my fingers caught where I don't want them. I tend not to down-load by one shell, but I might in the future.

[@jeffmaloney8701]

VTPSTTU Good story! 👍

[@robertrivera1060]

Have you looked into simply safe security systems?

[@VTPSTTU]

@@robertrivera1060 I've looked at them a little bit, but from what I've read, they still require better internet than what I have.

[@robertrivera1060]

@@VTPSTTU ok. Maybe contact them. Maybe they have something to boost the signal. Stay safe.

[@1101agaoj]

Great info and solid points regarding safety. Also, if you're fortunate enough, a call to your folks is an easy way to honor your mother and father.

[@Galamoth66]

I treat tube Springs like pistol mags, every time I get a new shotgun I always buy a couple extras

[@alfonsorj70]

Great job...no need to retract your position,,I totally agree with you on keeping your gun in a cruiser safe position it is the most safe way to store a shot gun..

[@pisacenere]

How about a double barrell shotgun with the action open? Or an Ar-15? Please do more of this episodes with other weapon platforms

[@barackmycat9448]

I do Stoeger double defense with safety on. Flick and shoot.

[@mikeylikesit6588]

Stuckgrenadepin holy crap!

[@barackmycat9448]

@Stuckgrenadepin Hope you didn`t ventilate the house! What kind of gun was that? I may need to do some safety checking. That should not happen.

[@testedresolve6737]

@@barackmycat9448 - I have a Stoeger coach gun. I've had it a long time and I know that mine will fire with the safety on if dropped. I love the gun but keep it unloaded in the gun cabinet. I keep my Mossburg 590 loaded for home defense.

[@adamsmith3413]

I love Dbls but leaving the action open takes up a lot of space and allows debris to enter the firearm. Can’t beat the second shot speed but capacity is an issue.

[@danmo43]

The only thing I was ever concerned about was the springs and you answered that question for me. I really appreciate it. Then again I have a 1937 380 that still has a really good spring in it so I should have known.

[@Tearithin77]

Not gun related but what brand of jacket is that?

[@ffnovice7]

These vids are really good for those of us in restricted States or countries who cannot have the latest and greatest. Cruiser ready Coach guns are my go to for interstate travel

[@ragingbombast]

I find it kind of astonishing how many complaints about firearm safety (I keep a round loaded because *I'd never put my finger in the trigger well by accident or drop it*) and storage practices (Modern springs *never lose tension*) seem to revolve around a failure to understand risk management. Even if a risk is rare, if the consequences of it happening are dire enough and the cost of minimizing it are low enough you should minimize it.

[@crabbyhayes1076]

I agree with your views on spring tension and failure. When physics meets the realities of metallurgy, who knows what may happen. So it just makes sense to take the added precaution and loading one fewer round. Also, Bravo! Make as much noise as possible if someone is in your house. That rule makes more sense than counting on a criminal to get scared because he hears a round being chambered

[@joejoelesh1197]

Interesting. This is how I store my HD shotgun, but I didn’t know that they are not drop safe. I like that it is the easiest way to store it so that it can be ready at a moment for anyone to use, no matter how familiar they are with that Gun. Slide unlocked is important because I don’t want my partner fumbling with the slide release because it is in a different location than hers.

[@christopherpaige406]

The original video was fine, it answered all the questions needed to.

[@sclwa85]

My challenge is "You broke into the wrong house fool!"

[@jayhafe]

BREAK YO SELF FOOL!

[@very7962]

AY AY AY

[@charlietobin8728]

Thanks chris for the input about not leaving the shotgun fully loaded as now I only leave it with only 2 shells in and only 1 in the chamber, to keep the spring better for a longer period of time

[@teaganwindago3132]

I live alone and I've been here for 25 years. Everyone knows me! It would take an outsider to test my abilities. OH what fun would that be. Keep in mind that the sound of a pump is very close to the sound of an AK-47 being racked.

[@tgfoley1493]

Wow no questions after this vid. Loved it❤

[@MaxTruman777]

*glass breaks *Racks shotgun *Plays sabaton at earrape volume

[@topturretgunner]

Hi Chris and Lucky Gunner Ammo. How are you folks? First of all let me say that you are one of few trusted firearms channels that are go to sources for gun related things. Mr Guns and Gear, Small Arms Solutions being a couple others. I own a Mossberg 590 SP chambered for 3" with a 20" barrel and 8 round tube magazine with 2 3/4" ammo. I am partial to the tang safety on the Mossberg as it does not require fiddling around with a safety mounted near the trigger guard. Ergonomics. I purchased the 590 from a reputable pawn shop for a good price. It showed very little signs of use and wear and since purchasing it I've replace the polymer trigger guard/assembly with a metal unit and did the same with the tang safety switch. A Magpul buttstock was a godsend for a guy like me with short arms ( I swear the factory unit was made with a 6'4" man in mind) and a Command Arms fore end and a Surefire 300 lumen rail mounted light and it was off to the races. I am impressed with the dependability of this shot gun, it's as tough and solid as a tank and has been my go to as both a home defense long gun and a faithful range companion. I would trust my life with this shot gun. It's a 1999 production gun and as I said before showed signs of very little use. I really enjoyed your videos regarding the use of a shotgun as a home defense weapon and found the "short stock" method particularly handy especially with this being a 20" barrel. We do of course have a variety of handguns in addition to an AR platform rifle at the castle and have developed home defense plans in the event of home invasion. Thank again you Chris for the well thought out and produced videos. Stay safe. All the best to you and the staff there at Lucky Gunner.

[@Ceece20]

I did convert my Mossberg Shockwave to accept the mini shells. I tried the regular shells but I will say 3” slugs are a pain. Mini’s will do the job fine and I can chamber more than double the number of cartridges.

[@pauldodd2086]

I really like minishells. Low recoil and great for in home protection.

[@Ceece20]

Paul Dodd exactly, also it makes it easier to take it to the range and fire some slugs. I’m not exactly going to be doing clay pigeons with a Shockwave lol 😂

[@bobawful3198]

Set up my Ol’ Lady’s shockwave that way , we love it. Was just thinking of putting bird shot rounds for 1st couple. 3 slugs for last rounds.

[@ravensnflies8167]

2 3/4 shells it will fit 6 with one in the pipe. i have magnum slugs 2 3/4. i have an opsol mini shell adapter too but ive never used it lol.

[@Ceece20]

@Bob Awful I’ve got buck shots in my mag, but I have the slugs ready too. I might do the same. I only hesitate because I live in an apartment and I don’t want a slug to go through walls if I’m trying to defend myself.

[@climbslc2281]

Very much agree with you. Plastic shotgun shells deforming under spring pressure over time and jamming is the best reason to download the tube. I have no doubt that racking a shotgun is a great deterrent.

[@jasonbrown8697]

When I was a kid I was at a friend families house and they were shooting an old shotgun. They let me shoot it... as soon as the shotgun hit my shoulder the gun fired. I had taken hunters safety and I had grown up around guns my finger was not on the trigger... it scared the shit out of the family yelling and screaming at me yanking the gun away from me ..this is a real thing lol...respect guns and always practice with safety first.

[@tjlovesrachel]

Why were they yelling at you lolll

[@BobStetson]

The sound of me racking it is there last chance to run. Great video

[@rebrus1930]

Support the channel, buy ammo......ummm, small issue with that statement....lol

[@stonehaven]

Thank you. Now I need to buy some springs.