Jay Grazio has been named Associate Editor of Shooting Illustrated, the NRA's monthly newsstand magazine that focuses on self-defense and tactical firearms. Grazio was a contributor to ShootingIllustrated.com as well as founder of the popular gun blog "MA-rooned" before joining the Shooting Illustrated staff. Growing up in a law enforcement family, he was introduced to firearms at a young age and likes anything that goes boom-from blackpowder muskets to polymer pistols and fully complemented AR-15 rifles.

"Not only is Jay a true gun guy, he is also a versatile writer and is experienced in delivering edgy online content," said Shooting Illustrated Editor-in-Chief Adam Heggenstaller. "He manages to blend a practical approach to self-defense with a good dose of wit, which the modern shooter will identify with and enjoy."

Grazio brings nearly 10 years of writing and editing experience, as well as almost 25 years of firearm knowledge as an avid shooter and collector. Along with writing about guns and accessories-including bayonets-he has attended training classes and introduced new shooters to firearms. He is happy to escape the restrictive gun laws of his native Massachusetts.

For more information: visit ShootingIllustrated.com, call Editor-in-Chief Adam Heggenstaller at (703) 267-1392, or e-mail aheggenstaller@nrahq.org.