Ninth Circuit Judge Lawrence VanDyke—a frequent defender of the Second Amendment and a top name on Trump’s Supreme Court shortlist—gave a rare, candid interview at the Federalist Society’s National Lawyers Convention. He explained why judges need real firearm experience if they’re going to rule on gun cases.

VanDyke argued that many federal judges have never touched a gun, yet regularly decide major Second Amendment issues. He compared it to ruling on free speech without ever speaking publicly. Understanding firearms, he says, keeps the Second Amendment from becoming abstract—something the Founders, who were deeply familiar with guns, never intended.

Growing up in Montana, VanDyke learned hunting and shooting early. Later, a gift of a Sig 556 pushed him into the world of competitive shooting, including:

• IDPA
• USPSA
• Tactical Games

He believes competitive shooting makes people far more prepared for self-defense than static range training.

VanDyke said judges risk becoming insulated. He stays grounded through church and the shooting community, where people treat him like a regular person—not “Your Honor.”

He highlighted his go-to SIG P320, his collection of AR-style rifles, and the Desert Eagle he once used to take an elk at 180 yards. He also joked about the AK-47 hanging in his chambers—technically owned by the government and nicknamed “the people’s AK.”

VanDyke’s interview gives a rare look at a federal judge who understands firearms both legally and practically. With major Second Amendment cases still rising through the courts, his voice is becoming more important than ever.