Gun Culture Revolution Led by Progressive Shooters

Initially, I intended to write about an uplifting firearms event I attended, where trans and queer individuals represented about 25% of the participants. This competition had an unofficial rule against bigotry, blending unique subcultures such as polyamory and Mad Max cosplays, accented by LGBT and Black Lives Matter symbols.

However, things took a darker turn when Charlie Kirk was tragically killed.

This incident made me reconsider writing this story. There were concerns about potential risks for my sources—gun enthusiasts who are trans in a divided America. Despite this, I chose to proceed and detail these vibrant subcultures.

In Parma, Idaho, at a gun range that feels more like a wasteland, I rode in a makeshift golf cart with two competitive shooters arguing in jest about who among them faces more marginalization. A 22-year-old YouTuber named Gun Bunny, who identifies as a Russian Jew, poly-pansexual, and is a person with disabilities like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, autism, and ADHD, was declared less marginalized than our Indigenous-Mexican Slovak Jew driver, who is trans and has chronic disabilities. They laughed over forming an alliance to 'defeat Nazis.'

LGBT+ competitors made up a quarter of those at the Brutality match event in Parma.

Gun Bunny, a YouTuber, participated in the Brutality match.

The High Desert Brutality match felt more akin to a festival like Burning Man than a militant gathering. The competition fused shooting skills with physical challenges such as running through trenches and hitting targets from a moving sand buggy, amid a postapocalyptic theme inspired by worker revolts on Mars. The atmosphere was left-leaning, extensive cosplay was visible—Gun Bunny dressed in Dune-themed attire—a testament to the inclusiveness of this intense and queer-friendly contest. The attendees, numbering 135, were drawn from far and wide.

Although numerous shooting events exist in the U.S., Brutality matches stand out for their extravagant setup and arduous challenges. However, the primary reason the participants feel at home is the inclusive spirit toward minorities. Karl Kasarda, the towering host and a popular 'guntuber,' emphasizes the acceptance of anyone who's non-prejudicial.

Karl Kasarda, who hosts these matches multiple times a year, is a cisgender white man known for embracing fringe cultures, though he avoids being titled as a 'leader.' He's significantly credited with creating a nurturing space dubbed the 'punk rock outsiders' in shooting culture.

He encourages learning about firearms from 'spicy trans girlfriends.'

A decade ago, Kasarda started a YouTube channel—InRange TV—that now has nearly a million followers. His content often explores overlooked gun history events important to marginalized communities, such as resistance movements and LGBTQ rights. He champions the idea of '2A For All,' believing everyone, particularly minorities, deserves the right to bear arms, a stance contentious among conservatives.

Under Trump's presidency, tensions worsened. Progressive gun groups reported increased interest as the administration considered extreme measures against trans individuals.

Conservatives, led by figures like Charlie Kirk, speculated wrongly about trans mass shooters, a narrative fueled by misleading reports about Kirk's death.

At Parma’s Brutality match, self-defense is a significant concern for participants. Jane Bird, a quiet trans educator, prepares to join the contest while reflecting on the importance of self-protection, especially with rising hostilities.

Jane Bird, who works under a pseudonym, has been organizing free self-defense classes for minorities, promoting gun education—even if it means steering some away from them.

She grew up familiar with firearms, her dad being an avid shooter. After distancing herself from guns due to her struggles with identity, she rediscovered shooting through groups like the Socialist Rifle Association.

Jane's story is one of resilience and transformation, having faced familial hardships over her identity. She finds solace and community at Brutality matches, a stark contrast to less inclusive local clubs.

As right-wing figures demonize armed trans individuals, events like this imagine a different narrative—a communal, inclusive space.

I encountered Deviant Ollam, a hacker and guntuber, who argued the misconception that trans shooters are preparing for conflict, as these events are more about personal empowerment and recreation.

The shooting challenges at Brutality matches demand skill and stamina, sometimes leading to unexpected situations, like a fire sparked during a shooting drill.

I spoke at length with Tacticool Girlfriend, a notable trans guntuber, who blends historical interest with contemporary firearms training. Despite threats, she embraces her identity and the sense of community found in these circles.

She and fellow participants often mask their identities in less welcoming environments. Their intentions are misunderstood; they seek joy and release in marksmanship, rather than conflict.

Organizer Kasarda explained how controversies over featuring trans creators like Tacticool Girlfriend in his content highlight fault lines in the gun community.

The aftermath of Kirk’s killing incites fear among trans participants, turning even routine visits to gun stores tense.

Yet, there remain bright spots. Jane reconciled with family over shared grief, experiencing acceptance. A local range instructor reiterated that everyone benefits from the right to bear arms.

In the face of mounting animosity, Kasarda and the wider progressive gun community continue to argue for safety and acceptance for all.

In this testing period, Tacticool Girlfriend and others show resilience and a commitment to a life of dignity and self-expression, despite the challenges.