Tag: training

Firearm Maintenance: The Essential Guide to Cleaning and Safety After Range Time

Introduction

Firearms, akin to precision instruments, demand meticulous care and attention. Whether you’re an avid marksman or just starting your journey, mastering the art of firearm maintenance is paramount. This expanded guide delves deeper into the nuances of gun cleaning, safety, and the best practices to ensure your firearm remains in peak condition after every range outing.


Why is Firearm Maintenance Essential?

Beyond the apparent need for a functional firearm, regular maintenance is a testament to a gun owner’s commitment to safety and responsibility. Here’s why it’s non-negotiable:

Safety:

A well-maintained firearm minimizes the risk of jams, misfires, and other malfunctions that could lead to unintended consequences.

Performance:

A clean firearm ensures consistent bullet trajectory, reducing variables that might affect your shooting accuracy.

Longevity:

Just like a well-serviced car lasts longer, regular maintenance ensures your firearm stands the test of time, offering you reliability for years to come.

Value Preservation:

For those who view firearms as an investment, maintaining them can preserve or even increase their value over time.


Steps to Proper Firearm Maintenance

Step 1 – Safety First:

The cardinal rule before embarking on any firearm maintenance is to ensure it’s unloaded. Always remove the magazine, open the action, and visually inspect the chamber. This isn’t just a cursory glance; take a moment to be certain. Remember, most firearm accidents during cleaning occur because the gun was thought to be unloaded when it wasn’t. It’s a simple step, but it’s the bedrock of gun safety. For a more in-depth explanation of firearms safety and safe handling best practices, visit our friends at NSSF.

Step – 2 Disassemble with Care:

Every firearm is a masterpiece of engineering, with each part playing a crucial role. Before disassembling, always refer to the manufacturer’s manual specific to your firearm model. While a field strip or partial disassembly is usually sufficient for cleaning, it’s essential to know how to do it right. Missteps here can lead to reassembly challenges or even damage.

Step 3 – Deep Cleaning:

A firearm accumulates residues not just in the bore, but in many of its intricate parts. Using a quality bore cleaner, start with the barrel, ensuring all residues are removed. Specialized brushes and tools can help clean the action, slide, and other components. Remember, the residues left behind, especially from gunpowder, can be corrosive. Over time, if neglected, they can degrade the firearm’s metal parts, leading to functional and safety issues.

Step 4 – Lubrication:

After cleaning, it’s time to lubricate. Think of lubrication as the lifeblood of your firearm. Moving parts, when fired, experience intense friction. Proper lubrication reduces this friction, preventing wear and tear. However, it’s essential to strike a balance. Over-lubrication can make your firearm a magnet for dirt and debris, while under-lubrication can lead to increased friction. Always use firearm-specific lubricants, and apply them judiciously.

Step 5 – Reassemble and Function Check:

Once your firearm is cleaned and lubricated, reassemble it by following the manufacturer’s guidelines. But the process doesn’t end there. Conduct a comprehensive function check. This involves checking the safety, trigger function, slide or bolt operation, and other moving parts. It’s a final assurance that everything is in its rightful place and functioning as it should.

Step 6 – Storage Solutions:

Proper storage is as crucial as cleaning. Environmental factors, especially humidity, can be detrimental to firearms. When storing, ensure your firearm is in a cool, dry place. If you’re looking for advanced solutions, consider investing in gun safes or storage cases with built-in dehumidifiers. These not only protect against moisture but also offer added security.

Check out Action Target’s full selection of Gun Cleaning and Firearm Maintenance products HERE.


FAQs on Firearm Maintenance

Should I clean my gun even if I haven’t fired it?

Absolutely. Over time, dust and environmental contaminants can accumulate. Even without firing, oils can degrade, and metals can oxidize. Regular check-ups ensure your firearm remains in optimal condition.

Can I use household oils for lubrication?

It’s advisable to use firearm-specific lubricants. Household oils might not offer the same protection, and their viscosity might not be suitable. Some can even gum up, attracting more dirt and debris.

Is there a ‘best’ cleaning product?

While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, always opt for reputable brands. Research and reviews can guide your choice. Shop.actiontarget.com curates a selection of top-tier maintenance products.

How often should I replace my cleaning tools?

Cleaning tools, like brushes and patches, wear out over time. It’s essential to replace them when they show signs of wear or no longer effectively clean. Using worn-out tools can be counterproductive and might not provide the thorough cleaning your firearm needs.

Do different firearms require different maintenance routines?

While the basics of firearm maintenance remain consistent, different firearms, especially between rifles, handguns, and shotguns, might have specific needs. Always consult the manufacturer’s manual and consider the firearm’s design and purpose when establishing a maintenance routine.

Is there a risk in over-cleaning my firearm?

While regular cleaning is essential, over-cleaning, especially with abrasive tools or solvents, can wear down the firearm’s parts. It’s crucial to strike a balance. Clean to remove residues and contaminants, but avoid excessive scrubbing or using overly harsh chemicals.

What’s the difference between cleaning and maintenance?

Cleaning primarily focuses on removing dirt, residues, and contaminants. Maintenance encompasses cleaning but also includes lubrication, inspection, and potential part replacements. Think of cleaning as a subset of the broader maintenance process.

Can old ammunition affect my firearm’s cleanliness?

Yes, older ammunition, especially if stored in less-than-ideal conditions, can leave behind more residues or even corrode the firearm’s chamber and barrel. Always inspect old ammunition before use and be prepared for a more thorough cleaning session afterward.


Conclusion

Being a firearm owner is a responsibility. It’s not just about hitting the target but ensuring the journey to that perfect shot is safe and reliable. Regular maintenance is a ritual, a commitment to the craft, and a nod to the legacy of marksmanship. Dive deeper, learn continuously, and always prioritize safety.

For a treasure trove of information and top-notch shooting range products, Action Target’s blog and Posted in Range Supplies & Accessories, UncategorizedTagged , ,

New Range | Goodyear PD

Action Target
August 28th, 2023 | Goodyear, AZ

Every year we work with law enforcement agencies around the world to build state of the art training facilities where officers can develop and maintain the skills they need to protect and serve their communities. We recently partnered with Goodyear PD in Goodyear, AZ, USA to add a full-scale indoor shooting range to their department headquarters.

Key Features of Goodyear PD’s Indoor Shooting Range

In this build, versatility, practicality, and durability were our highest priorities. We wanted to provide Goodyear PD with the ability to modify and adapt their training to the needs of their officers. With that, the range includes: an eight lane, 25-yard tactical range with our Vortex Steel Bullet Trap, floor-to-ceiling SureStop Rubber wall baffles allowing for 180 degree live fire training, and SmartRange Axis™ range controls for both the HVAC system and range target systems. The indoor shooting range at Goodyear PD is 100% lead free making it much safer for officers to train without exposure to harmful lead dust, and makes cleaning/maintaining the facility much simpler.


Interested in Building Your Own Indoor Shooting Range?

We’re grateful for the opportunity to work with Goodyear PD and their team to develop this incredible facility, and look forward to seeing the benefit it brings to their agency.

For more information about building an indoor shooting range at your law enforcement agency, please feel free to fill out our Build Your Range form, or sign up for LERDDS HERE.

Two Years Strong: VirTra Continues Support for Action Target’s LETC in 2023

Introduction

Action Target is thrilled to announce VirTra as a key sponsor for Law Enforcement Training Camp (LETC) for the second consecutive year. This partnership symbolizes our shared commitment to providing law enforcement personnel with top-notch training and resources. The camp, scheduled for August 21-25 in Provo, Utah, will feature a range of advanced training programs, including VirTra’s Red Dot Optics Training Program.

VirTra’s Red Dot Optics Training Program: A Highlight of LETC 2023

VirTra’s Red Dot Transition and Sustainment program, developed in collaboration with Matt Jacques from Victory First, is designed to equip officers with the skills needed to transition from traditional iron sights to a pistol-mounted red dot optic. This program offers both live fire and simulator training, along with sustainment material to help officers continue building essential skills.

In-Depth Course Details

Instructed by Mike Clark from VirTra/Victory First, the VirTra Red Dot Transition and Sustainment program is designed to take officers with little to no experience with the pistol-mounted red dot optic and equip them with the necessary skills to successfully transition from traditional iron sights to a pistol-mounted red dot optic. The course will be conducted in the VirTra simulator and on a live fire range, providing a comprehensive training experience.

The sustainment package within the course offers specific drills that can be conducted in the simulator pre or post daily briefings or as a supplement to range qualification days. It takes an in-depth look at some of the more popular red dot optics on the market today but is not intended as an all-encompassing recommendation as to what optics to choose or avoid.

Certified and Comprehensive Training

The course is certified by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST) and meets POST requirements in 38 States. It contains a pre-test, lecture, post-test, and range drills, exemplifying VirTra’s dedication to their Teach, Train, Test, Sustain philosophy.

Equipment Required

  • Duty belt to include service pistol with a Pistol Mounted Red Dot Sight (PMRDS)
  • Ear and Eye protection
  • 3 magazines
  • 400 Rounds of Ammunition
  • Sunscreen
  • Water/hydration

Join Us for an Unforgettable Experience

We invite all law enforcement professionals to join us at LETC 2023 and benefit from the exceptional training opportunities offered by VirTra and other leading experts in the field. Together, we strive to enhance the skills and readiness of our law enforcement community.

Learn More About LETC 2023

Action Target is proud to partner with VirTra for the 2023 LETC. Their dedication to quality training aligns perfectly with our mission to empower law enforcement professionals with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. We look forward to seeing you at LETC 2023!

The Best of the Best: What Makes an NSSF 5-Star Rated Shooting Range?

Introduction

For more than 60 years, the National Shooting Sports Foundation has been the standard-bearer for those in the firearms industry. Created in 1961 to promote, protect, and preserve hunting and shooting sports, the NSSF is a trade association with more than 12,000 members across the industry. As part of their mission to promote shooting sports, the NSSF has established a program to recognize shooting ranges that provide outstanding facilities for firearms enthusiasts, known as the NSSF 5-Star Rating System.

According to Star Rating System Guide released by the NSSF in 2018, the rating system serves the following purpose:

“The rating system is based on our vision of a safe, well managed, customer-oriented facility that is a strong promoter in the recreational shooting sports market. NSSF’s new Star Rating Range Program will hold facilities to a higher standard. These 5 Star-rated ranges will be the gold standard for our industry, those ranges having earned that rating through their focus on advancing best business practices.”

With 68 ranges currently qualifying for a 5-Star Rating, Action Target is proud to have partnered with 29 ranges who have earned an NSSF 5-Star rating. Below is a list of qualifying ranges associated with Action Target.

Action Target Partners with NSSF 5-Star Ratings

RangeLocationWebsite
Gunfighter Canyon – WilliamsWilliams, Arizonawww.gunfighter.com
Kings Gun Center LLCHanford, Californiawww.kingguncenter.com
Centennial Gun ClubCentennial, Coloradowww.centennialgunclub.com
Nexus ShootingDavie, Floridawww.nexusshooting.com
Shooters World, LLCOrlando, Floridawww.shootersworld.com
Shooters World, LLCTamp, Floridawww.shootersworld.com
Shooters World, LLCThe Villages, Floridawww.shootersworld.com
Guns-n-Gear Sports LLCIdaho Falls, Idahowww.gngsports.com
Maxon Shooter’s Supplies and Indoor RangeDes Plaines, Illinoiswww.maxonshooters.com
On Target Range & Tactical Training CenterCrystal Lake, Illinoiswww.ontargetsite.com
Smokin’ Gun WorxForreston, Illinoiswww.smokingunworx.com
Firearms Range and Clothing, Inc.Baton Rouge, Louisianawww.frcbr.com
Cape Gun WorksHyannis, Massachusetts https://capegunworks.com/
Ann Arbor Arms LLCAnn Arbor, Michiganwww.annarborarms.com
Top Gun Shooting Sports, Inc.Taylor, Michiganwww.tgssinc.com
Heartland Gun Club & RangeRochester, Minnesotawww.heartlandgunclubs.com
White Birch ArmoryDover, New Hampshirewww.wbarmory.com
RTSP, LLCRandolph, New Jerseywww.rtsponline.com
Reloaderz NJWayne, New Jerseywww.reloaderznj.com
Carolina Sporting ArmsCharlotte, North Carolinawww.csaguns.com
Heritage Guild of Easton, LLCEaston, Pennsylvaniawww.heritageguild.com
Keystone Shooting CenterMars, Pennsylvaniawww.keystoneshootingcenter.com
Nashville ArmoryNashville, Tennesseewww.nashvillearmory.com
Nardis Gun Club at Alamo RanchSan Antonio, Texaswww.nardisgunclub.com
Nardis Gun Club at Rolling OaksSan Antonio, Texaswww.nardisgunclub.com
Nardis Gun Club – San AntonioSan Antonio, Texaswww.nardisgunclub.com
Bellevue Gun ClubBellevue, Washingtonhttps://www.westcoastarmory.com
The Range LLCYakima, Washingtonwww.therangellc.com
Lehigh Valley Sporting ClaysCoplay, Pennsylvaniawww.lvsclays.com

What Does It Take?

The process of becoming a 5-Star Rated Range with NSSF is one a new—or existing—range owner can complete with their existing business. The NSSF qualifies ranges for a 3-5 Rating based on the following criteria:

  1. Appearance and Maintenance: The range must be clean, well-maintained, and visually appealing to shooters and visitors.
  2. Management: This includes integration of technology, general business management, and marketing tactics together ensure a quality customer experience.
  3. Shooting Sports Development: This evaluation looks at the procedures and policies in your business that support the promotion and development of shooting sports for the public. This includes public events and range availability, community engagement, and environmental practices to ensure safe range operation for the facility and staff.
  4. Amenities: This evaluation considers the offerings of your business to the public, including restrooms, stocked pro shop or retail spaces, and compliance with ADA accessibility and other requirements.

Benefits of Being a 5-Star Range

Now that we know what it takes to be a 5-Star Rated Range, what are the benefits of being rated so highly? There are several benefits, some of which include:

  1. Increased customer satisfaction and loyalty: The 5-star rating is a recognition of excellence in the industry, and customers are likely to be attracted to ranges with this rating.
  2. Improved reputation and visibility: Being recognized as a 5-star range can help to establish a positive reputation in the industry and increase visibility among shooting sports enthusiasts.
  3. Potential for increased revenue: Customers are willing to pay more for a superior experience and being a 5-star rated range can lead to increased revenue from range fees, merchandise sales, and other services.
  4. Access to NSSF resources: 5-star rated ranges have access to resources provided by the NSSF, such as training programs and marketing materials, which can help improve operations and attract more customers.
  5. Networking opportunities: The NSSF hosts events and conferences that provide opportunities for range owners to network with other industry professionals and learn about best practices in the industry.

Being rated 5 stars from the NSSF is mark of excellence that can help attract new business and other range owners to follow your example.

Action Target’s Role

At Action Target, we specialize in engineering range solutions that are expertly planned and installed, so you can be confident in the product you receive. This leads to high reviews from customers, more profitable ranges, better training options, and a safer experience for shooters and staff at your range.

Because of our commitment to excellence, 42% of NSSF 5-Star Ranges partnered with Action Target. Our projects and experience from around the globe has made Action Target a leader in the firearms industry, and NSSF’s rating system shows that Action Target continues to confidently provide quality service to both new and existing ranges.

“At Action Target, we are proud to have built many of the NSSF 5-star rated shooting ranges across the country” says Mike Birch, Action Target CEO. “We take great pride in designing and building state-of-the-art facilities that meet the highest standards of safety, comfort, and performance. Being a part of the process that helps ranges earn this prestigious rating is a testament to the quality of work and dedication of our team. We look forward to continuing to build and improve shooting range solutions for the benefit of the industry and its customers.”

Conclusion

Action Target has played a significant role in establishing many of the NSSF 5-star rated shooting ranges across the country. Our dedication to designing and building state-of-the-art facilities and range product solutions that meet the highest standards of safety, comfort, and performance has helped many ranges earn this prestigious rating. As a result, customers can enjoy an exceptional shooting experience while range owners benefit from increased customer satisfaction, improved reputation, and potential for increased revenue. By continuing to build and improve shooting ranges, Action Target is helping to promote and preserve hunting and shooting sports and ensuring that customers have access to the best facilities in the industry.

The creation of the NSSF’s 5-Star rating system was put in place to recognize “safe, well managed, customer-oriented” facilities for their excellence in preparing and training shooters across the country. Action Target’s mission to “build the safest and most advanced shooting ranges possible” aligns perfectly with this goal, which is only emphasized by the large amount of Action Target ranges who have earned a 5-Star Rating.          

MATCH™ (MODULAR ARMORED TACTICAL COMBAT HOUSE)

Action Target’s Shoot House featuring Auto Target Hit Sense Technology.

Action Target’s MATCH™ is a 360°, live-fire, ballistically safe, shoot house designed for teaching and learning close quarter skills, like room clearing and hallway navigation, with realism and safety.

AutoTargets enhances training and the shooting experience. Each lift unit can be placed as a stand-alone target, or daisy-chained from a single air supply. Because AutoTargets is portable, it can be placed in any configuration or incorporated into any terrain. It is effective in shoot houses, Hogan’s alleys, and other close quarters combat environments, as well as open- eld, long distance training courses. A pressure sensitive target version is also available for use with non-lethal ammunition projectiles.

AutoTargets™

MATCH™ (Modular Armored Tactical Combat House)

Portable Bullet Trap

Action Target Announces Dates for 2016 Law Enforcement Training Camp (LETC)

LETC 2016

PROVO, Utah – Action Target today announced official dates for the 2016 Law Enforcement Training Camp (LETC), an annual event featuring advanced firearms training presented by many of the best instructors in the industry.

LETC 2016 DATES: SEPTEMBER 12 – 16, 2016

Now in its 24th year, LETC brings together over 140 of the very best firearms and tactics instructors from around the world for five-days of intensive firearms training on Action Target’s state-of-the-art shooting ranges.

"We’re very proud of the LETC program and the opportunity it provides for Action Target to give back to the community. Each year we receive the highest accolades from attendees and supporters. LETC 2016 will bring new courses, better ammo purchasing and shipping opportunities, more vendors, and much more," said Seth Ercanbrack, Marketing Communications Manager at Action Target.

Agencies and trainers interested in attending LETC 2016 are encouraged to subscribe to the Action Target email communications list. Learn more about Action Target’s Law Enforcement Training Camp at https://www.actiontarget.com/LETC.

LETC 2015 Video Highlights

About Action Target

Target Inc. Action Target Inc. is a privately owned business headquartered in Provo, Utah. As a world leader in shooting range technology with more than 4,000 products and 40 patents for the systems it designs and manufactures, Action Target has installed thousands of shooting ranges across the United States and in 40 other countries around the world. Action Target also designs systems and conducts firearms training for law enforcement and various military divisions. For more information on Action Target, visit www.ActionTarget.com. To learn more about Action Target products or to purchase items online, visit www.LETargets.com.

Action Target’s LETC Registration Now Open

Registration for Action Target’s annual Advanced Law Enforcement Training Camp (LETC) is now open. LETC will be held from September 8 – 12 at Action Target headquarters in Provo, Utah, and at the Utah County Sheriff’s Office Range in nearby Thistle, Utah. Action Target has hosted LETC for over 20 years, providing Law Enforcement officers everywhere an opportunity for superior firearms training with some of the best instructors in the industry. Last year LETC hosted 128 officers from more than 20 states, Canada, and Brazil.

LETC-newsletter article image
Officers at Utah County Sheriff’s Office Thistle Firing Range, LETC 2013

This five day training event is designed to aid department firearms instructors in their training effectiveness and skill. Those instructors take this knowledge back to their respective agencies and train their officers. Courses are designed to challenge each individual’s skill level, pushing even the expert shooter to improve technique and ability. Classes cover a variety of subjects and weapons platforms including pistol, rifle, shotgun, and precision rifle. There is even a medical class geared towards range operations. Action Target has instructors from Safariland Shooting SchoolHoffner’s Training AcademySpartan Tactical Training Group and more. The instructors at LETC offer decades of experience in firearms and tactical training and accuracy.

Tuition is only $550 which includes four full days of training and six meals. Click here for registration information and to learn more about event details. Contact David Mathis at davidm@actiontarget.com for any registration questions or concerns. LETC is limited to the first 160 paid applicants, and classes are first-come first-served. Slots are filling up fast, so register today. While primarily geared toward law enforcement firearms trainers, all law enforcement officers are invited to attend. Join us for a week of top-notch firearms training!

 

 

Frisco Gun Club Range Highlight

When he started plans for Frisco Gun Club, owner Christian Putman wanted to create the Nieman Marcus or Barney’s of shooting ranges. Now that dream has become a reality as Frisco Gun Club is not only one of the largest indoor ranges in the nation, but one of the most luxurious. The sheer size alone is impressive: a 43,000 square foot facility with 40 shooting lanes, 7,000 square feet of retail space, and a 100-person training classroom. But the luxury factor is what sets Frisco Gun Club apart from the rest.

 

About the Range

The range is designed to challenge each individual shooter’s skill level. The range includes 40 shooting lanes. There are 36 25-yard lanes, with six of these reserved _MG_5995exclusively for VIP Club members, and four 100-yard rifle lanes. Each shooting stall is divided by one-inch thick bulletproof glass, and the stalls are nine inches wider than standard shooting stalls. Each person can determine his or her difficulty level with hands-on target operator consoles and individual control screens. Twenty four of the lanes can be viewed through bulletproof observation windows so people can watch their friends and family outside the range.

The range equipment provides all customers and club employees a safe and clean environment. Action Target’s unique Total Containment Trap is a bullet trap specifically designed to handle a large volume of rounds while depositing all the lead safely into a single 55-gallon barrel using the Screw Conveyor collection method. The ventilation system is also top-of-the-line, meeting and exceeding NIOSH and EPA regulations. With the best in equipment, club employees can spend their time on what’s most important: servicing their customers.

 

Training & Classes

Training and safety is a large part of the club’s focus. The club hosts a 100-person training classroom, and several classes are offered including CHL, Firearms Safety, Introduction to Handguns, and a variety of NRA classes. Ladies Nights are a regular occurrence, and the range is also available for events and parties. A full-time gunsmith is employed at the club, and common and custom gunsmith services are available six days a week.

 

Membership

Frisco Gun Club is open to the public, but it caters especially to its members. The club had 2,300 members before it even opened its doors in early December 2013. VIP-Lounge-1200There are three levels of membership available; guests can sign up for a standard, platinum or VIP membership. Family memberships are also available. Benefits vary depending on the level, but all members enjoy a 10% discount on accessories, complimentary eye and ear protection, a discount on range fees, and much more.

The VIP Club goes a step above what customers are typically accustomed to with a gun club membership. Membership in the VIP club includes amenities such as valet parking, free gun cleanings and no range fees. VIP members also enjoy a private entrance after hours and full-time attendant, up-scale dining and drinks, cigar room, 24/7 biometric range access, and private storage for their firearms in the on-site gun vault. The VIP lounge with a fireplace, leather seating, and Wi-Fi is just one more way Frisco Gun Club provides this tier of membership a premier experience.

 

From their top-of-the-line range equipment to the member benefits and classes offered, Frisco Gun Club strives to provide the best experience for any customer that enters their doors.

 

Thinking about Building a Shooting Range?

Building a shooting range can be an overwhelming process. Your time and resources deserve a partner who will listen to your ideas and turn your dreams and plans into a successful, thriving business. If you are considering building a range, talk to the Action Target Range Consultant in your region, and he will be happy to help you find the right equipment to fit your needs and budget. You can also use our Request a Quote form to get started on your range project today.

Please note, the tips included in this message have been found to be helpful for many clients throughout the years but may not apply in all situations. Please use judgment in determining which tips will be helpful in your particular situation.

 

What Makes a Professional Firearms Instructor?

By Dave Staskievicz

Editor’s Note: Action Target has republished this article in its entirety with the permission of the author. Ideas, comments, practices, recommendations, etc. are the author’s own and do not necessarily represent those of Action Target.

LETC 2013 - 073There are so many different types of “firearms instructors” that it’s virtually impossible to give a standardized answer to this question. In no way do I think I have all the answers to this question. The purpose of this article is to simply get instructors thinking about possible answers.

Depending on the type of firearms instructor you are, your answers might be a little different. Just so we are all on the same page, a few examples of different types of instructors I’m referring to are hunter safety, trap, range safety, NRA, competition, defensive shooting, and tactical (law enforcement / military – life and death).

There are a wide variety of training doctrines and techniques to choose from – I won’t talk about any of them. This article will focus on the different attributes that make up a professional firearms instructor.

12-2 LETC 2013 - 174As I look at it, there are levels and stepping stones in your instructing career. Generally speaking, I would venture to say some of the best instructors have law enforcement (LE) and/or military backgrounds. However, I’m sure there are exceptions out there.

The majority of my experience as a firearms instructor comes from the LE / military arenas. However, I do occasionally help out with hunter safety and even coach some trap. Over the years, I have tried to listen and learn from many colleagues and instructors. One of the first lessons I learned was that I don’t know everything.

The first thing is to remember you can always learn something new. Never rest on your laurels, and always try to learn something that will make you a better instructor. Find a mentor or mentors and work on how you instruct. Every time I watch someone else teach, I’m trying to learn another way to communicate or relay information to the student. You can never stop learning and improving. I would never claim to be the best instructor, but looking back, I wasn’t a very strong instructor when I first started.

In my opinion, there are a few areas that make or break you as a good, professional instructor. I’m going to break down and discuss a few of these.

Professionalism

Standing barricadeSince we are trying to define what a professional firearms instructor is, it seems the first place to start would be to discuss professionalism. As I said earlier, there are many types of instructors which will alter some of the requirements. To begin with, we owe it to our students and our industry to have a clean professional appearance and attire. If you’re honest with yourself, it’s hard to disagree with the idea of showing a professional appearance. It’s not difficult to wear a polo or other collared shirt. Wearing some sort of T-shirt or an untucked shirt just tells your students you’re sloppy and unprofessional.

Professionalism also includes your documentation for the class. Every class needs a lesson plan and supporting documentation. Did you make a range safety plan and safety brief for your students and instructors? We can never afford to take safety for granted. Don’t cut corners or fall back on the “do what I say, not what I do” motto. Always set the example for your students.

Be courteous and respectful to your students and other instructors. Never bash another instructor or their techniques – that just shows that you are unprofessional. Never contradict another instructor in front of students unless it deals with an immediate safety issue. During a break, take the instructor aside and privately discuss any difference or suggestions.

Evaluate Yourself – Keep an Open Mind

IMG_0758I have already mentioned that you can always learn something new. To do that, you need to continually reevaluate yourself as a firearms instructor. I put a date on all of my police recruit / instructor manuals to require myself to reevaluate the techniques, tactics, and gear every two years. If you haven’t changed any of your curriculum in more than two years, you have most likely rested on your laurels and are now becoming a liability. Be open to evaluating different techniques.

Just because an instructor has the most years of service behind his name, it doesn’t mean he is the best firearms instructor. This is especially true if there isn’t an open mind to progress and change.

Evaluate Techniques, Tactics, and Gear

This area is critically important, especially for defensive and tactical firearms instructors. Realizing we need to keep an open mind about ourselves, we also need to keep an open mind about our techniques, tactics, and gear. As we look at new tactics, we always have to remember that some look really cool on a flat, sterile range when the students’ heart rates are low. Always evaluate the validity of a new tactic or piece of gear before you introduce it into the classroom. Will the technique work when the student performs it with an elevated heart rate? Far too often, I’ve seen an instructor show students a “cool” technique that doesn’t pass the common sense test.

Position #2 shooting _ Cover BlockThe worst thing a professional firearms instructor can do is to fail to vet a new technique, tactic, or piece of gear. Many times, I’ve watched an instructor go to a school or seminar, learn some new tactic, and come back to start teaching it as the “new coolest thing” in the world of shooting. Usually, within a few weeks or months, the instructor realizes the technique isn’t sound and may only work on flat, sterile ranges as opposed to real world situations. The problem is that the damage is already done. Every instructor is liable for what they have taught the students that have already completed the class. Good, professional instructors will vet any new technique before they go out and teach it to students. Consequently, they need to incorporate any changes into their lesson plans and stay consistent.

Think about this: if you’re with a group of instructors evaluating different techniques or gear and you’re always the one talking or you’re never wrong, you just figured out the issue – it’s YOU! If you run the training, you have to remember a good leader always depends on others to make you look good. Once you think you know everything, you are doomed. It’s impossible for one person to know everything, and if you think you do and you’re always right, you are the liability for your training program. Most of this comes down to leaving your ego at home. Remember, story time reduces training time.

As you update your curriculum, remember to have integrity. don’t take credit for other people’s work. Simply changing the name of a technique doesn’t make it yours, so don’t try to make a name for yourself that way. If you change the name of a technique, you will typically end up confusing your students anyway. This comes back to the ego again. The more you have to tell people how great you are, the more you are covering up your inabilities as an instructor or person.

Learning Environment

The most important thing a good firearms instructor can do is to help a student learn. Always remember, we must walk before we run. Breaking everything down into small tasks (modules) will go a long way to accomplish this goal.

  1. Explain what you are going to do
  2. Show them what you want them to do
  3. Demonstrate what you want them to do
  4. Have the student replicate what you want them to do in small parts (modules)

IMG_1040I still live by the old military adage we learned: KISS (Keep It Simple). We can drop off the last S. Trying to impress your students with big words only confuses the students and makes learning harder. There is no need to carry a dictionary on the range. It comes right back to the ego again.

Students always need to have a positive learning experience. For example, when teaching some of the basic fundamentals of firearms, we need to understand why a student’s rounds are going to a certain location. A good instructor has learned how to break down the drills to help students learn why their rounds are always going to a certain place. Until a new instructor understands this, a simple shot analysis card can be an easy first step for learning.

Do I have all the answers? Absolutely not. If I ever thought I did, I would be a liability to myself and others around me. Remember, the purpose of this article is simply to get instructors to think about what a professional firearms instructor is and then take the time to evaluate themselves and their curriculum.

As for the idea of coming up with standards for firearms instructors, I don’t think it’s a very easy or feasible task. The biggest problem with this would be that there doesn’t seem to be a good clearinghouse to standardize a professional firearms instructor.

Remember, as firearms instructors, our goals need to revolve around providing the best possible real world learning environment for our students. Teaching a student to shoot a firearm has a great deal of liability surrounding it. Having students use what they have learned from you in defense of their lives or another person’s life is forever rewarding.

StaskiewiczAbout Dave Staskiewicz

Officer Dave Staskiewicz is Range Master of the Omaha, Nebraska Police Department. He serves as the lead firearms instructor as well as the lead Taser instructor. Dave can be reached at dstaskiewicz@ci.omaha.ne.us.

Action Target Law Enforcement Training Camp a Huge Success

Action Target’s annual Law Enforcement Training Camp ended Friday as instructors and trainees parted ways after another year of advanced firearms training.3 Panorama - Lobby

This year’s LETC was attended by 128 law enforcement officers and firearms instructors from across the country and the world. Nearly 20 states were represented with officers from Hawaii and California to Florida and Pennsylvania. While LETC is traditionally a domestic law enforcement camp, as its fame has spread throughout the world, we’ve increasingly received requests to attend from foreign law enforcement agencies. This year, 12 officers from Canada and one officer from Brazil attended as well.

On Monday, Sept. 9, officers arrived at Action Target’s headquarters to sign in and pick up their gear which included personalized gun cases and water bottles. They were also able to tour the facilities where all of Action Target’s productscart Small are designed, engineered, and manufactured.

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Classes started Tuesday morning at the Utah County Sheriff’s Office Thistle Firing Range. This year’s training classes included Bob Schneider’s Shoot House Training, James Washington’s Training for the Fight with the Pistol, a Glock armorer’s course, and many others. A total of 12 instructors participated from a variety of organizations including Spartan Tactical Training GroupSafariland Shooting SchoolHoffners Training AcademyGlock Training Division, Police Training Division, JDS Tactical, and Clayton County Police Department.

Some of the world’s finest law enforcement instructors teach at the camp every year. Firearms training professional Brian Hoffner, who has been an instructor at LETC nearly every year since the mid ’90s, encourages students to constantly learn more and to keep coming back to LETC every year.

“I tell my students, first of all, if you get one thing from every class, then this camp has been successful,” he said. “But you don’t stop there. You continue to be a sponge and you keep coming back to this LETC every year because you’ll pick up that one thing or more every time. And then you take it back and you share it. We lead by example, we save lives, we keep departments safe.”

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Wednesday night, more than 30 officers at the camp put their skills to the test in the Dirty Harry shooting competition as they vied for free tuition at next year’s LETC. Participants were required to shoot a variety of reactive steel targets while moving among three separate stations. The officer with the fastest time would win free tuition to LETC 2013 with second and third place winning significant tuition discounts. For the fifth year in a row, a law enforcement officer from Utah Highway Patrol won the competition showing that home court advantage has its benefits even when it comes to shooting.

The classes themselves were anything but fun and games, however. LETC participant Dan Cord (who served in Fallujah, Iraq, before becoming the lead guitarist of the rock band American Hitmen) said he learned more in three days at the camp than he learned since joining the Marine Corps.31 LETC 2013 - 157

“When they said you’ll be able to do 2 in the chest 1 in the head in 1.68 seconds by the end of the day, I didn’t think it was doable. But by the end of the day, we were doing it. I’ve done more reloads and loads with a handgun in the past few days than I have in years. It’s amazing how you can train your motor skills and pretty soon you’re not even thinking about that, you’re thinking about the next target.”

The camp ended Friday afternoon with one final day of classes before attendees began their long journeys home to locations across the nation and the world.

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We at Action Target were honored to have so many exceptional officers at this year’s camp, and we hope that each one took home something new that they can share with the men and women they serve with. Superior law enforcement training has always been one of our corporate missions, but we couldn’t make that happen without the continued assistance of our instructors and the participation of the world’s finest. To everyone that attended, instructed, or helped, we thank you and hope you enjoyed your time with us.