As a youngster growing up in the recreational sports circuit (yes we had a circuit!!!) our coaches would always tell us that “we would play how we practiced.” Amazingly so, the advice given by Coach Rod over 25 years ago would ring true in our beloved firearms industry. We at PSA tend to always echo the words of our coach from so many years ago…. Guys, even in shooting sports, trust us, you will play how you practice.
If you practice and train only at small increments and only get incrementally better, when it’s time to perform, you will perform marginally. Likewise, if you practice and train consistently, and you consistently get better, when it is time to perform, you will perform exceptionally (or at least you should!!). As so frequently inculcated on our blog, effective training is of paramount importance as it pertains to effectively managing a firearm.
One of the most practical suggestions that we can offer you is to dedicate a portion of your training sessions to training with your personal defense ammo. Many “experts” will tell you that this ammo is too precious and too expensive to be shooting down range, but understand one very important point…. Your personal defense ammo will more than likely act differently than your target ammo when being discharged, and it is important for you to recognize and be able to accommodate for these differences should you encounter a defensive situation. Quite often, personal defense ammunition has hotter loads, different bullet weights, and at times different cases than your target ammo. These differing characteristics will undoubtedly cause a slightly different reaction from your firearm. As responsible and safe firearms owners, it is crucial that we understand these differences and in-turn perform accordingly.
The same holds true as it pertains to all of your other training habits. To ensure effective learning and retention, consistent practice is mandatory. Shooters should practice drawing techniques, as well as re-holstering. Training sessions should include troubleshooting malfunctions, reloading, and even off hand shooting techniques. The more familiar you are with your firearm, its nuances, and its uses, the better apt you will be should you encounter a defensive situation.
*** If you are unfamiliar with firearms and/or their accessories, and want to learn more, PSA strongly suggests that you find, enroll, and attend a comprehensive and reputable firearms safety course. Firearms safety is all of OUR responsibility.
We want to thank you for taking out the time to stop by our lane at the shooting range!! We hope that you enjoyed your stay and hope that you stop back by early and often to catch up on all PSA updates! We truly hope that we were able to hit the target, and if you ever have any questions please don’t hesitate to shoot them our way!! We look forward to shooting the breeze with you soon again!!
And as always….remember to watch your six and stay low!!!