Locked & Loaded
Firearms, Hunting & Gear — Straight from the Shop
Practical guides, Iowa hunting tips, gear reviews, and firearm advice from Josh Humphrey — licensed FFL dealer and 16-year firefighter in North English, Iowa. No filler. No fluff. Just what you actually need to know.
Thermal Optics Trends for Hunters in 2025: What You Need to Know
As hunters gear up for the fall seasons here in Iowa and beyond, thermal optics continue to revolutionize nighttime and low-light pursuits. Whether you're tracking coyotes, hogs, or deer, these devices offer unparalleled detection and accuracy. In this post, we'll dive into the key trends shaping...
FFL Transfers in Iowa: What They Are & Why They Matter
FFL Transfers in Iowa: What They Are & Why They Matter If you’re buying a firearm online or through a private party, there’s a good chance you’ll need to go through an FFL transfer—and if you’re in Iowa, that’s where we come in. At Black Helmet Gun Shop in North English, we’re a licensed FFL...
How to Legally Buy a Firearm in Iowa (Without the Headache)
How to Legally Buy a Firearm in Iowa (Without the Headache) So, you're ready to buy a firearm in Iowa—but don't want to wade through a mess of legalese or deal with overpriced transfer fees? You're in the right place. At Black Helmet Gun Shop, we're here to make the process clear, simple, and...
History of the Pistol
Timeline of Key Developments Related to Pistols 13th century - Earliest known handguns (predecessors to pistols) are developed in China. These consist of tubes of gunpowder ignited by fuses. 15th century - Hand cannons become more sophisticated in Europe, with early triggers and handles added....
A Beginner’s Guide to Buying Your First Firearm
Buying Your First Firearm Are you considering purchasing your first firearm? Whether it's for self-defense, target shooting, or hunting, buying a gun is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. This beginner's guide aims to provide essential insights and tips for those stepping...
Get To Know Black Helmet Gun Shop
Located in North English, Iowa, Black Helmet Gun Shop is your premier destination for all things firearms. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just getting started, Black Helmet has you covered. With years of experience in the industry, our knowledgeable staff can help you find exactly what you...
Find Amish Built Deer Blinds at Black Helmet Gun Shop in Iowa
If you're a passionate hunter, you know the value of having a sturdy, high-quality hunting blind. Even more so, you recognize the durability and craftsmanship that come with Amish-made hunting blinds. You no longer have to search far and wide for these! You can find hunting blinds and deer blinds...
Hunting Success: Unleash the Power of the .350 Legend in Iowa Deer Country
Iowa, the Hawkeye State, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and thriving deer population, making it a mecca for avid hunters. For those looking to maximize their hunting experience, the .350 Legend cartridge has quickly become a favorite among Iowa deer hunters. In this blog post, we'll...
When is Iowa Shotgun Deer Season
It's only the middle of August but deer season will be here before you know it. Here are the dates for Iowa shotgun deer season for 2023. Shotgun - First Season - December 2nd - 6th, 2023 Shotgun - Second Season - December 9th - 17th, 2023 With just about 4 months to go, this is the perfect time...
Black Helmet Gun Shop Now Your Source for Affordable IrayUSA Thermal Optics
We're excited to announce that Black Helmet Gun Shop is now an authorized dealer for IrayUSA thermal optics. This addition allows us to offer high-quality thermal imaging products at very competitive prices. IrayUSA produces thermal optics that rival top brands like Pulsar, but at more...