(GunReports.com) — When a powerful tornado rated by the National Weather Service as an EF-4 with winds up to 200 MPH ripped through central Oklahoma in May 2013, homeowner Pat Brand lost everything. He huddled along with 10 neighbors in a protective underground shelter as the violent storm roared overhead. When he emerged after the tornado passed, gone were his home, truck and a Smith &Wesson handgun that was equipped with Crimson Trace Lasergrips.
“When I came out of that shelter, I was shocked to see everything I owned was completely gone,” Brand said. “All I had then were the clothes and boots I wore when I went into that shelter. My home was gone down to the foundation, and so was my truck. Also gone was my Smith & Wesson handgun.”
That handgun — a S&W M&P pistol chambered for .40 S&W — was later found more than 600 yards away from the site of Brand’s residence. The gun was so coated in mud that it was initially hard to recognize it as a handgun. The neighbor who discovered the pistol returned it to Brand, who then took the questionable firearm to a local gun shop for cleaning. There gunsmiths began the cleaning process and were suddenly amazed to see the Crimson Trace Lasergrips activated when they grasped the firearm.
The gun-and the Crimson Trace Lasergrips had survived the powerful tornado plus nearly a week outdoors in the rain and mud. Both passed the gun shop’s inspection and were determined to be fully functional, and the handgun was returned to Brand.
“Our products are tested in extreme conditions, including intense range testing, before they become a part of the Crimson Trace family,” stated Fred Karl, Crimson Trace Product Development Manager. “This is one test that we wished never happened, but surviving this terrible event only tells us we are developing the best product for the extremes of everyday carry and the toughest conditions that our loyal customers can throw at our products.”
The devastating Oklahoma tornadoes in May 2013 resulted in tragic loss of life and huge financial losses for many families. If you would like to help Pat Brand and his family with recovery, a website has been created to aid them. Visit www.YouCaring.com.
