training

Gun Range Etiquette For Both New And Seasoned Shooters

January 30, 2017 By Josh Leave a Comment

Whether you’re a 1911 lover, a Glock lover, or are somewhere in the middle … one thing we can all agree on, is that training with your carry gun of choice at the range is paramount.

If you’ve never been to a gun range before, or even if you have and need a refresher, there are some things that you should know and practice. Here is some gun range etiquette:

Know and follow the safety and range rules:

Before you go, each time you go, recite the basic rules of firearms safety. I do it while on the drive in, or I’ll repeat them in my head. You know the ones right?

Treat every weapon like it’s loaded.
Don’t point your weapon at anything you don’t intend to kill/destroy.
Keep your finger straight and off the trigger until you intend to fire.
Know what your target is, and what is around it.

It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been shooting guns, this one is first on the list because it is that important. It cannot hurt to recite the rules, but it can hurt if you have an ND (negligent discharge) at the range.

It may also be a good idea to look at the range rules before you start your shooting session just to make sure you know what is expected of you.

Be courteous:

There is a 100% chance that you’ve got no idea what the other person is doing while at the range. Granted, he/she is there to practice shooting, but why? What is their goal for the day?

One time about a year and a half ago I was trying to get my Springfield to malfunction. I was testing its limits to see how it performed before I wrote an article about it over at guns.com. A man came up to me to offer me some advice on what I was doing wrong and proceeded to tell me I was limp-wristing it.

While I’m pleasant at the gun range, not everyone is. I told him that I actually knew what I was doing, and why I was doing it. He backed off.

Unless that person is doing something unsafe, it’s usually a better bet to let it go because they may be doing something like I was.

Of course, if they ask you for help, that’s fine, too, but the firearms world is strange and everyone is an expert in their own mind.

Ask for advice if needed:

While offering up advice may not be a good idea, if you need help, ask. Most gun-owners are the friendliest group of people you’d ever meet and they genuinely want to help. Though there are bad apples in every bunch, many of them believe in the one hand washing the other rule.

Case in point, some time last year I was testing a Coonan Classic 1911 chambered in .357 Magnum/.38 Special+P. I had many malfunctions, and needed help.

I asked my friend Scott what I was doing wrong (he had one of these for several months), and after some troubleshooting, the malfunctions stopped.

The problem, by the way, is that the gun was too dry. The point, is that even though I have several years (decades, even) of experience, I knew that someone else had more experience so I nutted up and asked for help.

Don’t be the brass eagle:

Ah, the brass eagle. You know the type, right? The dude at the range who has eagle-like vision for all things shiny and metallic?

This is the guy who can’t even wait for you to finish your shooting session before he starts picking up your brass so he can reload it. What’s even worse, is when he doesn’t ask if he can pick it up and just helps himself to it, assuming that it’s on a first come, first serve basis.

If you feel like picking up someone else’s brass, make sure you ask, or wait for that person to leave before you do.

While it may not be bothersome for everyone shooting, it will irritate others.

Hands off your gun while people are down range:

This should be a no-brainer, but you should not be loading your gun or otherwise handling it while there are people down range. This is just common courtesy for your fellow shooters. It’s unsafe.

Clean up afterwards:

Most gun ranges have rules about cleaning up after yourself. It’s not a good idea to be the person who doesn’t listen. Also, if nobody else is picking up your brass, or you are shooting aluminum or steel casings nobody wants, pick it up after you’re done.

Use a case or holster:

Some gun ranges have a rule against transporting a gun to the range unless it is in a case. A case is good for a few reasons. First, it protects your guns. Second, it ensures that there aren’t any loaded weapons off the firing line.

Once you pull up to the firing line, you may pull the weapon out.

Never shoot at someone else’s target:

There was this one time when I was writing a firearm review for TTAG, and I was accuracy testing on target at 50 yards. To my surprise, when I went to collect my target at the end of my shooting session, there were multiple different sized holes all over it.

Of course, I was trying to correct for dropped shots. Only, they weren’t mine and I had no idea and had to start over again.

Shooting on someone else’s target is a horrible way to make friends at the range. You can assume that, while you’re not 100% sure why that person is there, the most popular reason why that shooter is at the gun range, is to become a better shot. If you’re screwing them up with your own holes, it’s bound to piss that person off.

RSO:

If there is no Range Safety Officer, someone needs to be comfortable calling the shots. When the range needs to go cold, someone needs to call a cease fire for safety purposes.

The shooting line is for shooting:

There is no reason for a spectator to be on the line, unless they are there for a specific reason (like learning). Otherwise, when you shoot you are on the line. Not in front of it. Not behind it. On it.

Don’t hover:

While it’s perfectly acceptable to glance over at someone else’s target, it isn’t good to hang out behind them with binoculars watching where every shot is placed, unless they ask you to.

All this talk about going to the range, and shooting makes me think about hearing protection, and keeping your ears safe. My good friends from Smoking Barrel USA put this infographic together, and I think it represents why we need hearing protection so much:

Source: The Smoking Barrel USA

Mantis X Review

January 14, 2017 By Josh Leave a Comment

Mantis X Training System — MantisX Training System. The device is mounted on the accessory rail of my XD9

Training tool review, MantisX — Because being fast on the draw is great, but if you can’t hit anything, what’s the point?

In the wonderful world of self-defense, you need to have a solid understanding of what you’re doing with your chosen weapon. Whether a knife or a firearm, you need to be able to use this tool to your advantage if your life is ever in danger.

I want to state right here, that a tool like the one I’m about to discuss should never replace a qualified instructor, but be used in conjunction with him/her.

Many tools are available to help you be better prepared, should the time ever come when you need to draw your weapon. And, there are even some things you can do for free, in the comfort of your own home. One such thing, is dry-firing.

I recommend dry-firing to everyone and do it myself. But it, alone, does have limitations.

While dry firing your gun is a great thing to do for trigger time, the amount of information you receive from it is limited. While it is true that you can put a penny or an empty casing on top of your front sight, only so much is learned from this method.

Personally, I have trained this way, and it does help you work on trigger control. Where it lacks, however, is giving you an idea of where your shots land on target, helping you figure out why you can’t hit your target.

In other words, if my front sight travels too far from the target, it measures that. The sensors in the device track the direction it travels, and lists likely reasons why your shot would have been high and to the right. Or, low and to the left.

Then, it displays how you might be able to fix it on the screen of your phone:

How well does it work?

I was successfully able to throw the device off multiple times, with it registering that I was doing something wrong. It didn’t, however, always state the exact thing I was purposefully doing wrong, but it did most of the time.

So, while it isn’t 100% accurate all the time, it did always pick up that I was doing something wrong which should force the shooter to concentrate more on all aspects of shooting mechanics.

How does it work?

There is a bluetooth-enabled device that you attach to your accessory rail equipped firearm. The device actually collects data based on your dry and live firing, and sends the information to an application on your phone.

From there, you can see what you’re doing wrong, each time you squeeze the trigger.

Too little trigger finger? It’ll let you know. Too tight of a grip? It’s got your back. Pushing the gun to one side? Yeah, it’s got you there too.

In short, it’ll tell you all you’re doing wrong, sort of like an instructor would do, and help you become a better shooter because of it. Again, it isn’t meant to replace an instructor.

Another plus, is that I was actually able to track my progress during the course of time I used it. It’s beneficial because even though I thought I fixed an issue, like having too tight of a grip, I found that old habits don’t leave all that easily.

I still grip my pistol too tight when squeezing the trigger.

So, how did I do with my time using the MantisX?

To start, as stated a minute ago, I have a death grip on my gun. I found out that I over-grip it a majority of the time–more than any other shooting error.

I’ve got big, strong hands, and I just feel the need to manhandle everything I touch, and, for whatever reason, my gun is no different. So I now make a mental note to not grip so hard. It’s an uphill battle for me, because it’s an old habit, but it’s getting better.

Now, I do want to say here that it isn’t perfect, as no technology is. But, having the chance to learn something from a piece of gear that actually turned me into a better shooter, is worth the $150 price tag the MantisX costs.

Its biggest advantage, in my opinion, is that I’m actually forced to want to squeeze the trigger better. I would find that during my live-fire exercises, I’d just be going through the motions.

When I have the Mantis attached, I get feedback, and want to shoot as close to 100 as I possibly can. It’s almost like a competitive nature kicks in, and I’m competing with it.

Therefore I find myself dry-firing more and because of that and what I’m learning with the application, I’m improving at the range. It really is helping.

Here is a short video of me demonstrating it for you in dry-fire mode outside in my backyard:

I see this tool being used by people like myself who just want to become more proficient and accurate with their self-defense weapon of choice, as well as instructors looking for another tool to use in the classroom.

So, how do you use it?

First, you buy the device. Then, once you get it in the mail, you download the application available in the Android and Apple marketplaces.

Then, make sure you follow the directions that come in the box. Connect the device to your phone via bluetooth, and choose your settings:
After that, just hit the train button on the app, and you’re ready to go.

Now, I always try to list negatives on everything I review. This one is no different. There are a few features I’d like to see added at some point in the future.

I switched guns a few times, and it never registered a different gun. I moved from my XD to a 1911 with an accessory rail on it. It kept tracking as if I was using the same gun. Not that big of a deal, but something I’d like to see change in the future.

Overall, I think this is a great product that is designed to do one thing: Help you become more proficient with your self-defense weapon of choice. If you’re ever attacked, being able to shoot accurately is paramount.

The MantisX helps you achieve that. You can learn more about them, here.

What did you think about my MantisX review? Let me know in the comments below.

How To Prepare Yourself For Self-Defense With A Gun

January 4, 2017 By Josh Leave a Comment

Sadly, many of us don’t prepare ourselves for self-defense with a gun the right way.

The problem, is that people go to the gun range, shoot some tight groups, and then leave thinking that their training is over. They don’t believe there is anything else to do once they’re done shooting at paper targets

Not the case …

Don’t get me wrong, here. You do need to get to the range as often as your schedule allows. I’m not discounting the importance of physically training. Truth be told, we could all use some more range time, right? I mean, I get there at least once per week, and still feel like I need more.

self-defense with a gun — My range view one day with a Henry Lever Action 22

If you don’t get to the range to shoot, you need to make time for it. Taking it a step further than that, though, is training mentally.

Training mentally is one of the most important things we could ever do, so there is less decision making time, when time is of the essence.

But, what do I mean when I say “training mentally?”

I mean a couple different things, but on the most basic level, it starts with a simple decision. You need to know right now where you stand on various types of threats, so you’re better able to squeeze the trigger should the time ever come.

First, you need to believe that your life, or another innocent, is worth saving by taking the attacker’s life. This means that you understand the potential consequences of taking someone’s life, and the weight of the law that may come to prosecute you if they feel you acted unjustly.

One thing you must never forget, is that once you squeeze the trigger, you own the consequences of the bullet’s flight.

Here’s an example scenario:

Let’s say you’re in the local 7-11 one morning grabbing a cup of coffee. You’re on your way to work, so you’re in a hurry. Standing at the far side of the store, you add your cream and sugar when suddenly, you notice some yelling over by the entrance.

Instinct tells you to turn and look, and you see the clerk getting robbed at gun point. What do you do? Do you step in and save the day? You see the clerk each morning and are pleasant with each other. But, you don’t really know him.

Obviously, every situation will be different, but you should have a general idea of whether you’re willing to risk your life for his. Do you risk it? Or, do you preserve your life by hiding down the candy isle?

I cannot answer this for you, only some serious introspection will help. The answer is different for everyone, but this is something that you need to know beforehand so critical time isn’t wasted.

You need to know how/if you will act with your firearm, before that situation ever comes.

There are some things you should consider, to help you decide:

Do you have a family at home? If you do, you need to remember them before you act. There is a chance that you could die or be seriously wounded if you do decide to act. This is a decision you need to make before it happens

Then again, there is a chance that you could be the next target, if the bad guy’s eyes fall upon you, next.

Personally speaking, I feel as though I have an obligation to help everyone I meet. While each situation is different, I’ve already made the decision to squeeze the trigger if something like this happens in front of me.

It’s a decision I’m comfortable with. What you decide needs to sit well with you, too.

Obviously, if you or your family is involved, it’s a different story. Let’s say someone breaks into your house intending to do harm for a few bucks worth of jewelry.

You will likely have your gun at the ready, should the bad-guys come in to where you’re protecting your family.

I want to say right here, though, that it’s not usually a good idea to go looking for trouble—even in your own home. It’s always a good thought to stand your ground in battle than to walk into an ambush.

If you suspect someone is in your house, it may be a better idea to dial the police while you wait and only defend yourself when presented with imminent threat.

Does that sound cowardly? Let’s analyze this for a moment …

Truth be told, you don’t know what awaits you downstairs. Is there a gang of baddies down there rummaging through your stuff? Is there only one guy loaded up on crystal meth? If so, your lone pump shotgun may not even make a difference.

And now, it’s time for my version of side-note, myth-busters:

I can all but guarantee that the statement, “all they need is to hear is the slide-action (kuh-chack) of a shotgun and they’ll flee” is false. While it’s true that someone in their right mind might run, they may not if they’re desperate enough.

You’ve got a 50/50 chance of them actually running away.

Plus, it’s never safe to assume that someone isn’t high on methamphetamine or crack. If they are, they may not even feel the penetration of whatever projectiles you’re lobbing at them.

Unless you’ve got cameras placed all over your house, you won’t know what you’re walking in to. And even then, you don’t know the state of someone’s mind.

It should go without saying that if you just happen to walk in on someone in your home, and you’ve got your gun on you, it’s a different story.

There is only so much you can control when presented with this type of scenario, which means you need to be as prepared as possible to act, when the time comes.

Up to this point, the whole idea is to know that you have the resolve to put someone down when your family, or the convenience store clerk, is in danger. We will talk tactics at a later date. For now, let’s move on.

The decision to act, or not act, is just one mental obligation you have when you enter the self-defense lifestyle.

Just as important, is playing different scenarios through your head, visualizing yourself having to pull your gun, taking aim, squeezing the trigger, the attacker going down, etc.

I’ve often likened this technique to my daughter’s dance dress rehearsal. Before the big day, all the little dancers get together to practice their moves making sure they get them right.

This is the same deal with practicing in your mind. You need to have an idea what it could look like, even if your real critical incident will be totally different.

Granted, the above video is made for police officers on the job, but the same principles apply to those of us who carry firearms for self-defense.

Putting different scenarios in your head, like one attacker, two attackers, is your family with you, is it a break-in during the middle of the night, are you at a gas station, etc., will only help you be better prepared when the time comes.

Picture yourself drawing, shooting an attacker, etc. The more realistic your brain can make it, the better off you’ll all be.

You should also do this while at the range, with your gun in your hand.

The main point here, is that you’ll be better able to squeeze the trigger, if you’ve already seen yourself doing it in your head. Again, not perfect, and the actual situation is bound to be totally different than what you’ve thought up in your head. But, if you can see yourself doing something, you’re more likely to be successful at it.

Finally, you need to be mentally training yourself while your gun is in your hand at the range. What I’m about to say next may confuse you, but bear with me to the end because I have a point.

You need to mentally train by doing physical exercises before you start shooting, and even in between mag changes. Before you do anything, make sure your gun is clear.

Do some push-ups, jumping jacks, sprint back and forth, etc. Do whatever you need to do to get your heart rate up.

Then, pick up your gun, insert a magazine, and begin shooting at your target. People look at me like I’m nuts, and maybe I am, but the point here is to get your blood pumping fast enough to simulate yourself being involved in a shooting incident.

Studies have shown that the body goes into panic mode in situations like this. Your heart rate will be elevated, you’ll get tunnel vision, your body will begin to pull oxygen from your extremities so you’ll shake, your breathing will be erratic, etc.

Doing these exercises before you shoot will tell your brain how to compensate for your body’s lack of control when the time comes. This is one of the reasons why getting involved in competition shooting is a good idea. It helps to put that stress on your body, causing your brain to have to work through it.

Adding as much stress as possible to your training regimen, can only help.

Here is another idea: Add a timer and have someone else load your magazines with snap caps. Then, do some exercises, hit the stop watch, and run through a scenario to get your heart rate up with your mind working through the simulated malfunctions.

The key is to keep your mind sharp and able to work through just about anything thrown at it. The plus side to doing these things at the range, is that it’s also physical training. It gives a double benefit.

Lastly, another thing I always do, as well, is drink a huge cup of coffee before I go to the range. I never understood people who don’t drink coffee on their range days but do every other day of the week. Make it as realistic as you can so your brain can fight through.

Will a 12 ounce cup of coffee make my hands shake? Sure. Will I be more inaccurate at the range? Sure. But, they’re going to be shaking anyway in a critical incident, so why would I stop that for some bulls-eye shooting?

Besides, it’s more likely for me to be hopped up on caffeine than not, so that’s how I train.

The way you prepare yourself for self-defense with a gun, both physically and mentally, will help you get through having to defend yourself with your firearm. Starting to do it right now is one of the most important things you could ever do so that you can be successful when you need to defend yourself and family.

Make sure you stay tuned, because we’ve got a lot of good stuff coming your way. How do you train? Do you train mentally? Let us know in the comments below. Remember, this is an educational website, so we all learn from each other.

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