26 June 04

"Competitive" shooting, from a friend and trainer in SA:

"One of my students (first time with me on the range) is an accomplished 'competitive' shooter.

Today's topic was use of cover. The instant this officer took cover, he reverted to 'sport shooting' mode. He was for more interested in 'beating the clock' than in learning anything about saving his life. In his effort to go through the drill as quickly as possible, all basics were cast aside. Scanning before moving, getting behind cover as opposed to getting into the box and not 'foot faulting,' exposing his head above low cover, sticking the gun beyond the cover; etc. All good tactics were forgotten in a mad, preprogra mmed rush to get to the end in the shortest time possible.

I explained the difference between sport shooting and serious shooting to the whole class. Our student was in agreement with all that was said and decided to give it another try, using correct tactics this time. His good intentions lasted all of five seconds! Without even realizing it, he resumed shooting against the clock.

We have much 'unlearning' to do!

Comment: On balance, "sport" or "competitive" shooting, as commonly practiced, does more harm than good. Most participants don't even carry a gun and seldom give a conscious thought to serious shooting and personal tactics. What they become experts at is whining and rule beating. It is not training.

/John