Remembering: Wiley Clapp, a Life Celebrated
Wiley Clapp: A Legendary Figure in the World of Gun Writing
Wiley Clapp, an American gunwriter who began his career in the 1950s, has left an indelible mark on the world of firearms journalism. After a distinguished military career and a stint in law enforcement, Clapp dedicated his later years to sharing his extensive knowledge and experience through his writing.
By 1965, Clapp was in combat in Vietnam where he commanded a company in the 1st Marine Division. After serving for 17 years at the Orange County Sheriff's Office, he retired from law enforcement and began another career in gun writing. Clapp joined Gun World in 1986 and soon became a regular contributor to the publication.
Clapp's writing was marked by his deep understanding of firearms, honed by his experience as a U.S. Marine Corps officer and his service in Vietnam. His voice in American Rifleman was authoritative and sincere, earning him a near 30-year tenure with the publication.
Clapp was a gunwriter's gunwriter, old school in the ways that count. He leaned heavily on his real-life experience, bringing depth and authenticity to his writing, as noted by Doug Hamlin, NRA executive vice president and CEO. Mark Keefe, editorial director for NRA Media, described Clapp as a field editor with a fresh perspective on handguns, especially for personal defense.
Throughout his career, Clapp authored numerous books on firearms and tactics. In 1986, he co-authored The Gun Digest Book Of 9mm Handguns. In an unknown year, he authored Modern Law Enforcement: Weapons & Tactics, Concealed Carry: The Shooter's Guide To Selecting Handguns, and The Gun Digest Book Of Handgun Reloading.
Clapp was a longtime columnist for Shooting Illustrated, writing the back page column, "Fightin' Iron." His columns were a staple of the magazine for an unknown duration.
In an acknowledgement of his contributions to the field, Gunsite Academy honoured Clapp by naming a classroom after him in 2022.
Despite his passing, Clapp's legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the wealth of knowledge he shared through his writing. His work continues to be a valuable resource for those interested in firearms and self-defence.
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