No I am not talking about the citizen who has attended too many buffet (because I would fall into that category), lol. I am going to discuss about the well prepared armed citizen. I often get asked what training a person needs and/or where do I start. I am going to step out of an Instructor role in writing this article. I am going to put the training in perspective from the position of a law abiding citizen who is starting from scratch and/or a Veteran. I am going to discuss the training that in my view as an experienced conceal carrying citizen, whom has had the misfortune of being in some situations. This article will not be the end all, but give people a simple and reasonable guide to get them to be well prepared, for the lifestyle of an Armed citizen.
Where to Start?
First, do not go out and buy a pistol just yet!!!!! I see far too many people who do this, then come to realize that after they take training, they have selected and spent their hard earned money on a pistol that is not suited for them. Secondly, I strongly recommend to read first. There are some quality books out their for the Armed citizen, to read and begin to understand the lifestyle. By reading a few of the below listed books or articles, this will help you get the most out of the training you are going to take. The following is recommended:
The State- Concealed Carry Act, at a minimum go to "http://www.handgunlaw.us/", and get up to speed for you state.
Massad Ayoob books and articles. Mas (as he likes to be called by students) is the world expert in use of force. His books "In the gravest Extreme" and Deadly Force is a minimum read. Everything he writes, is a gem for the armed citizen.
Andrew Branca book "the laws of self defense" is another great read.
Tom Givens-book "fighting smarter" is a great overall encompassing book.
John Farnham- his book "the Farnham method of defensive handgunning" is a good read.
Col. Jeff Cooper- this gentleman is the Grandfather of the defensive pistol, his book "Principles of personal defense" is as good now as when it first came out.
By reading the state's Concealed Carry Act, and one of the other books or articles the person will gain more out of the training, and be able to ask the Certified Instructor the questions that will crop up later.
Training- I highly recommend that you research your potential instructor. You want to find the best one to fit your needs. Call or email the instructor and ask what their credentials are and any questions you many have. A quality Instructor has no issue telling you their credentials. Also, are they willing to answer questions now? Some of the questions will need to be addressed in training, but if an instructor will not take the time now, will they be there for you afterward.
If nothing else, the citizen will need some basic knowledge and training to begin down the correct path. This is also a great refresher for Veterans, as the craft of the defensive pistol, is not covered in detail as the rifle in military service.
Basic Pistol course- This course will give the person, all the necassary knowledge to understand the following:
Safety, parts of a pistol (semi-automatic and revolver), how ammunition works and handle issues, proper grip, proper stance, proper aiming technique. This course is a good foundation for the citizen and a great refresher for the veteran. You want to ask if this is a certified course, by what entity or organization? Will they be willing to rent or provide firearms and/or ammunition? What will you be able to do after completion of this class? What will it count for? What are they willing to offer or support after the class is over?
Once your basic class is completed, you want to go to a range and SHOOT! You want to begin to master the skills you learned. Shooting is a perishable skill, so go and shoot. Many instructors will take the time afterward to coach you. One other option, which should be covered in Basic pistol class, is dryfire practice at home.
Now that you have done some shooting and have a grasp of fundamentals of marksmanship, you are ready for next class.
NRA Personal Protection In the Home- this class is designed as the next building block for the citizen. This class is a good first personal protection class, that deals with defense. You will learn about situational awareness, defensive marksmanship, use of cover and concealment, as well as, shooting around obstacles. When you consider half are time is spent at home, good education.
Intermediate pistol course- either after the "in the home" course or in lieu of it. An intermediate pistol course (which many instructors offer), polishes up the fundamentals that you have learned. It will then ingrain in you, how to effectively clear malfunctions, teach you drills to perfect your shooting ability. Likely, the most important part of this type of course is the elimination of training scars that are developed. This is usually a great transition course between fundamental marksmanship and defensive marksmanship.
Concealed carry Class- At this point you should posses the skill's and knowledge need to properly defend yourself. This class usually last from 4-8 hours. This is usually mandated by the state to obtain your license to carry a loaded pistol in public. This class should cover all the applicable laws of the state, use of force, interaction with law enforcement, and how to draw from concealed (a quality course will not just teach you this, but provide practice time) This will give you the minimal information needed that is mandated by the state.
Okay, now you have some skill's, have some knowledge and have obtained a concealed carry license. The worst thing that you can do, is STOP, at this point. The old saying of "know enough to be dangerous" is very applicable here. You posses some basic life saving skills that in the right situation can save you life. As many of us know, situations are rarely right and ideal. So then what to do?
NRA Personal Protection Outside the Home- This course was specifically designed by the NRA to give conceal carry holders, exclusive training in drawing and firing from concealed. This course has a basic level-learning the fine art of drawing from concealed, the finer point's engagement, and awareness. To the Advanced level- which refines the drawing and shooting skills, from moving, obstacles, from a chair. Usually the Advanced part is half to 3/4 of the day on range drawing and shooting.
Low Light Course- When you consider that 80% of all engagements happen in low light conditions, having the skill set to defend in the situation is critical. In this course students will learn about and added asset tool, the defensive flashlight, and the proper techniques for using them. You just don't shine a light and shoot, there is certain ways to make it beneficial and keep you from being a target.
Advanced Course- This comes in all kinds of different levels and intensity, as well as, price. For the most part, the student will master how to shoot on the move. Shoot from laying positions and many scenario drills are used. You really need to research to find if the course is right for you. Many are military and/or Law Enforcement driven, which is fun, but lacks practical application for the armed citizen.
Criminal behavior- This course is few and far between anymore. We preach to use situation awareness, but do we teach people what to look for? In this 4-8 hour class, the instructor breaks down the criminal pattern's and behavior that is always present. This course is usually followed by with role playing and defensive shooting.
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