New Jewish-Owned Shooting Club Addresses Safety Concerns
A new shooting club, owned and operated by the Jewish community, is making waves as it responds to safety worries during the lead-up to Rosh Hashana, which starts on Sunday.
The club, called “Lox & Loaded,” aims to provide a unique environment—where members can kick off sessions with bagels and spreads while focusing on firearm training.
Ian Friedman, who manages the national organization boasting three branches in New York, noted the club’s formation is a reaction to rising anti-Semitism. “It was born out of necessity,” he remarked, reflecting on the need for self-defense training during a time of increased tensions.
According to Friedman, Lox & Loaded offers tactical firearm training that, while informative, is not intended to create fear but rather to equip members with skills to avoid danger and respond effectively when necessary.
“Some folks come to us after experiencing anti-Semitic threats,” he explained. He added that the concerns are not solely about safety; they also stem from a desire to protect their children and families.
With the tragic incidents of October 7, which escalated the conflict in Gaza, members find comfort in learning together and discussing their fears openly. Friedman himself purchased weapons in Illinois to help train members in firearm safety.
The club isn’t just a gathering of men with firearms; it promotes empowerment, security, and community resilience. Older members, perhaps recalling their experiences fleeing antisemitism in Europe, express anxiety about history repeating itself.
Friedman highlighted that there’s a significant historical context—like the Nazis confiscating Jewish weapons in the past—that drives current members to take action now.
Since its inception in early summer 2025, Lox & Loaded has quickly attracted over 1,000 members across 15 chapters in ten states, with plans for more chapters soon. New York already has branches in Nassau County and plans for one in Suffolk County as well.
Friedman pointed out the sobering reality behind the club’s popularity: in 2024, over half of all hate crimes in New York City targeted Jews, with the numbers only rising further the following year.
Nationwide, the figures are similarly alarming, with a record number of antisemitic acts recorded, illustrating a growing threat faced by the community.
Lox & Loaded aims to bolster confidence and promote firearm safety, with activities ramping up during key holidays, particularly around October 7, amid bomb threats in various synagogues in New York City.
Interestingly, members who previously held anti-gun views are shifting perspectives, recognizing the value of self-defense in the face of real threats. One Westchester member remarked on the increased local participation, stating that recent threats have shaken the community’s sense of security.
The club has set an annual membership fee of $118, a number that resonates within Jewish culture, symbolizing “life.” Monthly gatherings often kick off with bagels, creating a welcoming atmosphere that balances training and socializing.
In this community, many members share a sense of unease, but with empowered skills and confidence, Friedman believes they can reclaim their peace of mind. “They don’t have to live in fear,” he asserts.
