Bullets & Bagels: Where Jewish Community Meets Firearms Training

Bullets & Bagels isn’t your average gun club. Founded in 2013 by Dr. Fred Kogen—a physician and mohel based in Southern California—it’s part firearms training group, part cultural gathering space. At a time when more American Jews are thinking seriously about self-protection, Bullets & Bagels offers something practical, grounded, and welcoming: a place to learn how to shoot, talk shop, and share a bagel.

The group was created to provide a space where Jewish culture and responsible firearms training could coexist without the baggage of partisanship. It’s a nonprofit social club (501c7), not a political platform. The focus is on safety, skill-building, and community. And though the group is rooted in Jewish identity, it’s open to anyone. Roughly 30% of members aren’t Jewish—what matters is a shared commitment to learning and mutual respect.

How It Works

Bullets & Bagels hosts monthly events, usually early on Sunday mornings at ranges across Orange and Los Angeles Counties. You’ll find exactly what the name promises: bagels, schmears, coffee, and a chance to train with certified firearms instructors. Most sessions include live-fire range time with handguns, shotguns, and rifles (within range guidelines). New shooters are welcomed and supported. Seasoned gun owners can practice their skills and connect with others who take firearms safety seriously.

The club offers structured classes—beginner to intermediate level—taught by NRA-certified instructors. There are also occasional guest speakers covering relevant legal and tactical topics. It’s an environment where people are encouraged to ask questions, make mistakes, and improve.

A Focus on Safety, Not Spectacle

What sets Bullets & Bagels apart is its clarity of purpose. This isn’t a group chasing adrenaline highs or pushing political agendas. It’s about staying safe, being prepared, and learning in good company. Firearms are treated as tools, not toys. The tone is respectful and low-key, without bravado.

That ethos extends to how people interact, too. Discussions stay focused on firearms, training, and safety. Broader political arguments are left at the door. In an increasingly polarized world, that approach keeps the space grounded and accessible.

Building a Different Kind of Gun Culture

Gun culture in America can feel exclusive—or even hostile—for people who don’t fit a narrow mold. Bullets & Bagels offers an alternative. It creates a space where Jewish identity isn’t just accepted but woven into the experience, and where other identities—religious, racial, gender, or otherwise—are welcome too.

Membership is affordable ($10/month), and the group provides everything beginners need, including rental firearms and range support. If you’re looking to gain comfort around firearms or build your skills in a thoughtful, inclusive environment, this club is worth checking out.

Learn more or sign up for an event at bulletsandbagels.com.