Ah great for you so cool �� I have not been shooting since August. I think it's time to find another one �� hope you continue ��

Lol, you need to find a nice SF guy to train you....that would never happen then!

Man so I guess I was suckered�� Ok now I need a new instructor any takers lol��

Well, there is training and there is training so maybe aye?

OTOH, since you are armed and dangerous .......

Well Rita,

My instructor was SF, but more importantly is someone I trust after getting to know them over the last decade.

It is very important to be with an instructor you trust, since after all, you are putting your training for personal self defense in their hands.

And when it comes to learning proper safety and security of your weapon, you want to have that trust that they know WTH they are talking about, IMHO.

Learn hard, but enjoy the process! Maybe bring a freshly baked pie to your trainer...you never know... But the point is, learn all you can from a highly trained Professional. You never know if one day your life may depend on that training.:munchin


Holly

If an instructor claims SF status just ask us to vet him.....a place where you can move and shoot, once skilled enough to do so is important and most ranges do not allow that.
This should also be combined with home protection/shooting skills that include family members...what 'ifs'....
Drawing, acquiring, gauging beyond the target (collateral damage), engaging/nullifying target and 360 degree security should be seamless .
Luck (and luck comes with practice)

LOL.. Really, I do trust, and have confidence in my instructor. When I went to my first lesson, he did teach me a lot, and believe me it takes time to process. He was patient, explained everything, taught me the right way to stand, posture, what to look for when shooting at a target, let me know what I needed to work on, etc. There is a lot that goes through your head, and you know that it takes more than one time shooting to gain more confidence, and techniques. I had fun, and we do get along well, and still do. And yes, there is a mutual attraction between us, but training is training and when I am there, that is what we should focus on.

I do have problem areas I need to address, and have not been able to do so. I was supposed to have training last week, but his schedule was full because of the prior weekend which was rained out. I do need a set time, schedule because I want to be able to go out at least twice a month to shoot and work on gaining experience. And to just be more comfortable with a handgun and know what I am doing. As of right now I am going through some marriage issues and “if, if” in the near future I have to be “on my own” again, I want to be able to protect myself. It is a strange world out there today, and if I have to start over, I want to be able to have the ability and confidence to do it on my own.

Thanks again guys, I guess I will try to work this out on my own. :o

A suggestion or two as you sound serious about this.

What you are doing is learning/practicing a martial art...think about it in that manner.

Presently you are learning mechanical and motor skills/co ordination....that is kata, the basic moves properly applied.

Most never get beyond that phase. They can be good shots but that is not what you are seeking.

The mental attitude and projection that makes one a warrior is as, if not more, important. Many in SF call it being 'switched on' and that is a guy who can go from casual conversation and at ease into serious killing mode immediately....because he has internalized the attitude....I could give you examples and in essence that is what edge a small ODA has over larger units.
The 'mode' is precise/controlled/lethal and instantaneous if the individual is mentally prepared.......this is what good team training results in.

Not easily acquired in your situation but not impossible either.

I should open a shooting dojo?

"The Yin & Yang of shooting......"

"Achieving shot group nirvana"

;)

You know the deal.....and if not mentally practiced the switch can go into the off position.

Martial art is martial art.....

The difference between punching holes in paper and punching holes in a person....the reason the military when to human silhouettes and quick kill courses....at the basic level.

LOL...a lot of deep mental thinking in those posts. I may need to do some yoga to clear my mind, loosen my body, and Zen out a bit.;) I do understand about "preparing" the mind when shooting, it is all in how you get there. Or I may need to just watch a "Kung Foo" movie....:D

Oh, and thank you for the suggestions, I really do appreciate it. The more advice I can get is so very helpful :)

Learning to shoot long range takes some thinking (300+ meters) Under that, it's not too difficult, but if you're not in shape it makes it difficult.

Until Tiger Woods started playing golf many "pro" golfers were fat guys. Tiger changed that. Yeah, you can be fat and shoot, but, you better have some upper body strength if you want to be good at it.

Firearms Training?
 

Shooting at People who are shooting at you with the intent to KILL you is Abstract for almost everyone including military, law enforcement, let alone the average citizen. The Military can Train soldiers for combat, The Police Academy can Train Law Enforcement personnel for shoot- no shoot encounters; BUT, Until you are in a gun fight, firefight or armed combat the Psychological cost of Kill or be Killed becomes instantaneous. You do it or Don't do it; There is no try
Regards,

Tom Kelly

Hi Holly:

Have you gone to anymore training classes recently? I think that I may try to look for another instructor and training facility around me. I was looking at a place in PA, one in Frederick MD, and one near me. I have to do a bit more research and ask some questions. I know the one in PA I need my own handgun, so I guess I have to get my rear out there and do some more "handgun" testing. I think I will do some this Friday after work. Oh, and thanks again to everyone that provided such great advice and information.:) Plus, I need to occupy my weekends and this is what I really want to do, more training. :D

Rita,

PM, inbound.


Holly