Stress Training improves Safety Skills

Last night I enjoyed an evening with the USPSA group at our local Pioneer Gun club.  As a trainer, and many of you are in the same situation, I watch a lot of people shoot each month but I don't get myself behind the trigger as much as I used to.  I didn't know anyone there (which was probably a good thing) nor did I share with any one my back ground.  I just went in as "Joe Citizen" shooter looking to be a better shooter.  My feeling is if a person brags going into a friendly competition they will be eating crow going out.  After my rusty performance last night I barely out shot the "crow".

One of the stellar performers last night was an 11 year old boy.  He was shooting an old  Ruger .22 semi auto in a Uncle Mike type of holster (he's my kind of budget shooter).  He has been shooting with his Dad in the USPSA practices for several months, went through the drills quickly, had all the right safety moves, and seemed to be right on with his shooting.  It was great to watch a Dad working with his son.

I ran through the evening's drill in a little over 90 seconds; most every one else got through in about 60 seconds.  The "kid" was zipping around like Peter Pan.  The course involved firing 26 rounds,  around two different barricades, two reloads, and firing around hostage targets to hit what ever center of mass the card board assailant target had exposed.  Points were made by where the rounds landed on the assailant and big point deductions for hitting a hostage.  The shooter moves as quickly as safety and personal dexterity allows.

Two modern day experts whose opinion I trust; Massab Ayoob and Jim Cirillo, both emphasize the value of competition shooting towards self defense.  Competition shooting (what ever program you want to get involved in; even bowling pin shoots at the local public range) gives us two big advantages.  First you will be a better shooter going through the stress of a self defense situation and secondly the stress of competition ingrains safety into your subconscious.  I was called once for putting my hand in front of the muzzle and sweeping the ceiling (old Police habits die hard).  And of course the third reason for getting involved is the fun of  shooting with people from all sorts of back grounds.

Competition shooting, involving even mild mental or physical stress, will prepare you for the stress of a self defense shooting and hone your range safety skills during your range time with students.  Get involved and stay active!

I had so much fun I think I'll go back next month!