Community, Faith, and Firepower: Inside the GunsNMosesNJ 3rd Annual BBQ

“Together as One.”

FREEHOLD, NJ — What began as a gloomy morning under a relentless downpour quickly gave way to clear skies, setting the stage for the third annual GunsNMoses barbecue. As cars made the trek from Ocean Parkway in Brooklyn out to Freehold, New Jersey, initial worries about turnout dissolved. Nearly 80 members arrived ready to connect, representing a rapidly expanding community that began with just three Jewish friends looking to shoot together and has since grown into a dedicated network of over 130 members.

The gathering reflected a broad and united cross-section of the Jewish community, bringing together Syrian Jews from Deal and Brooklyn alongside Ashkenazi members, ranging from secular to strictly observant. In the wake of rising antisemitism following October 7, the club’s mission has taken on deeper significance: empowering individuals with the skills, discipline, and confidence needed to protect themselves and their families safely and responsibly.

As founder Joseph M. and club leader Jeff S. addressed the crowd about the organization’s future, the sense of unity was unmistakable. The day offered more than just range time; it functioned as a genuine family gathering. Adding a cultural touch to the afternoon, catering by Mazza and More had Ashkenazi members enthusiastically enjoying traditional Syrian specialties like kibbeh and lachmagine—even if pronouncing the names proved an entertaining challenge—while burgers and hot dogs sizzled on the grill under the watchful eye of a mashgiach.

Spiritual tradition stood side-by-side with marksmanship. A local Chabad rabbi arrived with tefillin, assisting several attendees in laying them for the day. The gesture underscored a unique club tradition: upon crossing the 100-member milestone, GunsNMoses gifted a complete set of tefillin, a tallit, and siddurim to a member committing to wrap daily, with plans already underway to present another set once the roster reaches 200.

The afternoon’s practical instruction featured an interactive Krav Maga demonstration led by Freddy M. and Lawrence Y. of Chai Defense, getting the entire crowd on its feet to practice essential self-defense tactics. Following a mandatory firearm safety briefing for newer participants, members transitioned to the range. Experienced shooters worked alongside beginners, offering hands-on coaching as steel targets clanged down across the line. The event underscored a shared commitment to vigilance and safety—a belief that in uncertain times, responsible preparedness is vital.

The group’s motto is “Together as One.”

Security is not a passive act; it begins with education and preparation. The tools are available, but you must take the first step. Hand-to-hand combat and firearms are tools in your safety toolbox, but simply owning a tool doesn’t make you a craftsman.

Think of it like a hammer: almost every home has one in a toolbox. You may not need it every day, but if a pipe bursts or a door needs securing, you must know exactly how to use it. If you haven’t picked it up in years, you won’t be effective when the pressure is on.

To bridge this gap, the club recognizes and provides a vital, safe space for individuals who only received basic qualification training when applying for their license. Here, members can regularly train alongside club leadership who have trained extensively with professionals. GunsNMoses offers ongoing opportunities for advanced firearm safety instruction, practical direction, and general guidance when it comes to responsibly bringing this essential protection tool into our homes.