Lindsey Bertomen

Salinas

Columnist and Contributor at Police1

Contributor at Guns Magazine

Contributing Editor at Officer.com

Administration of Justice instructor at Hartnell College. Retired LE and Retired Military. Small Arms Instructor.

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Articles

Handloading: Makin’ Bullets

3 weeks ago | americanhandgunner.com | Lindsey Bertomen

Old .45 Colt barrels run 0.454″. Later models run 0.451″. Sometimes, I find bullets that meet my weight requirements, but they are too fat. I started by getting a Lee Bullet Sizing kit in 0.451″ to accommodate finding 0.454″ bullets that I liked but didn’t fit my gun. This ruined me for life. If I’m buying bullets and changing the diameter, why don’t I just make my own?
How Persistent Systems revolutionizes communication for specialized units

Jan 27, 2025 | police1.com | Lindsey Bertomen

For the most part, I am chomping at the bit to meet with exhibitors at SHOT Show. I had set up a meeting with Sam Pera at Persistent Systems LLC, and I was a bit apprehensive. It wasn’t about the opportunity to meet new people, which I love. I was afraid that I was not going to understand the technology. A little inside info about our team at Police1: Ron LaPedis is more tech savvy than I am, and he usually meets with the tech exhibitors.
I tested Pepperball’s latest non-lethal tools at SHOT Show's Industry Day at the Range

Jan 23, 2025 | police1.com | Lindsey Bertomen

Hello from SHOT Show 2025! I have provided a video above of what I found at Industry Day at the Range. While you are watching, listen for the merciless wind that whipped across the range floor. If I look a bit wind burned while I look at new products, do not be surprised. PepperBall has released some non-lethal tools that bring advanced capabilities to the law enforcement toolbox. I’m glad I was introduced to them on the range.
3 top knives spotted at SHOT Show 2025

Jan 23, 2025 | police1.com | Lindsey Bertomen

Hello from the SHOT Show exhibit hall floor. Today it was 9.1 miles of walking, including the stroll to and from my hotel. SHOT 2025 is a high-mileage endeavor. Garmin was at the show today, and I give the company credit for my ability to record my workouts and steps. I use a Tactix 7. For those who want a Garmin for duty, the Instinct 3 is out -- both the AMOLED and Solar models. This is the most perfect duty watch that has come out in decades.
This micro gun stole the show: Why the Savage Stance XR is a must-try

Jan 22, 2025 | police1.com | Lindsey Bertomen

I shot a bunch of handguns at SHOT Show Industry Day at the Range, but only a few stood out for me. The Savage Stance XR, a micro pistol with a 3.2” barrel, was one of them. Features of the Savage Stance XRThe Stance XR has a removable chassis that allows for interchangeable grips. The base model, which has a manual safety, is small, especially if you use the flush-fitting 10-round grip. There is a 13-round grip that gives the hand just a little more purchase.
The revolvers everyone loved at SHOT Show 2025 Range Day

Jan 21, 2025 | police1.com | Lindsey Bertomen

Greetings from SHOT Show 2025! I spent the day at Industry Day at the Range with my photo team, Gene Whisenand, Alex Frampton and my wife Karren. One of these days, I will keep track of the number of rounds we send down range. Today, our count included pepper balls, pellets and arrows, some of which I will cover in the next installment. Right now, I need to share the word of the day with you. The word of the day is REVOLVER.
Combat Flip Flops delivers tough footwear with a mission to make a difference

Oct 29, 2024 | police1.com | Lindsey Bertomen

When I told my range buddies I was testing Combat Flip Flops, not one of them thought I was serious. I was, and am, quite serious. I tested two products: The Shadowban High Tops and Floperators de la Muerte flip flops. The Shadowban is a high-top sneaker with advanced features. Floperators de la Muerte are EDC for your feet. Combat Flip Flops manufactures its footwear and accessories in conflict and post-conflict areas.
How to Reload ... At the Range

Oct 22, 2024 | americanhandgunner.com | Lindsey Bertomen

When I test loads, there are two methods I use to find the ideal combinations. I either use the ladder method or I actually reload on the range. The ladder method begins with the best estimate of the load, beginning on the bottom end of the load chart. The reloader loads sample cartridges in groups, usually five or six at a time. In each group, the load is increased incrementally. On the range, the groups are tested, one group at a time, beginning with the lightest load. Keep the test groups small.
Make Your Own .45 Shotshells

Sep 23, 2024 | americanhandgunner.com | Lindsey Bertomen

I have been experimenting with making shotshells for a 45 ACP. What I’m presenting here is an “almost complete” project. I’ve been standing on the shoulders of giants when it comes to load development, and I’m looking forward to your input on how to improve this load. Most commercial shotshell loads are for revolvers. Some of the ones for autos are pretty good, but they don’t check all of the boxes for handloaders. First, we like to develop loads to our preferences.
Picking A Trapper As Pocket Partner

Sep 4, 2024 | americanhandgunner.com | Lindsey Bertomen

I tested a Smooth Chestnut Bone Trapper, No. 28707, two bladed knife from W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery. I always thought that the most useful blade I can carry is a tactical knife — the ones with the locking blade and pocket clip. I was only partially correct. The Trapper is a two bladed knife with the traditional pattern of a clip and spey blade. The Case Trapper I tested has Chestnut Bone scales, the Oval Case Script medallion, and Nickel Silver bolsters.