Instructor Mike

This guide details the ATRAP (Assess, Tap, Rack, Assess, Press/Pause) procedure for clearing a 'click no boom' or failure to fire malfunction. It emphasizes maintaining situational awareness throughout the process and differentiating between continuing to engage a threat and pausing when the threat is neutralized. The technique is presented by Instructor Mike.

This video provides a series of hand drills designed to build the physical strength and dexterity required to rack a firearm's slide, particularly for individuals who may have difficulty with standard methods. Instructor Mike emphasizes practicing both the 'slide' (pulling back) and 'grip' (stabbing forward) motions with intensity, simulating real-world defensive scenarios. The drills are presented as preparatory exercises for loading a firearm and clearing potential malfunctions, with a strong emphasis on safety and proper technique.

This video critiques the application of stress-inoculating techniques on individuals lacking fundamental mechanical firearm skills. It advocates for a Montessori-style approach where instructors allow learners to identify and correct their own mistakes, fostering self-correction and deeper understanding of firearm manipulations. The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding one's audience in training.

This instructional segment from Instructor Mike emphasizes the correct technique for inserting a firearm magazine. The core message is to avoid partial or hesitant insertions, advocating for a firm, direct push straight into the magazine well until it locks. This technique is crucial for reliable feeding and preventing malfunctions, especially under stress. The instructor highlights that proper, full insertion is a fundamental skill that should be mastered.

This video clarifies the distinction between completing a firearms training course and obtaining an Illinois Concealed Carry License (CCL). Instructor Mike emphasizes that a training certificate, while necessary, does not grant the right to carry concealed. Applicants must apply for both a Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) card and a CCL through the Illinois State Police Firearm Services Bureau website (ispfsb.com). Failing to obtain the actual license can lead to arrest, even if training was completed.

This guide details the proper technique for loading a semi-automatic pistol magazine, as demonstrated by Instructor Mike. The method emphasizes a specific hand and thumb placement to efficiently seat rounds, utilizing the magazine's design and thumb pressure for stability. The core steps involve 'Place down,' 'Press down,' 'Thumb up,' and 'Back' to load each round sequentially.

This instructional video from Instructor Mike demonstrates the proper technique for operating a revolver's cylinder release latch and utilizing the ejection rod. The instructor emphasizes a secure grip and a methodical approach to opening the cylinder and ejecting spent casings, highlighting the importance of clear communication and understanding instructions in a training environment. The session aims to build confidence and proficiency in basic revolver handling.

This video emphasizes critical range safety protocols, highlighting the dangers of unsafe firearm handling and the importance of a responsible shooting partner. Instructor Mike demonstrates a severe safety violation where a firearm was removed from its designated safe area, stressing that safety is paramount regardless of individual student status. The importance of observing safety indicators, like loaded chamber indicators, is also underscored.

This video, from Instructor Mike, emphasizes the critical importance of de-escalation and strategic withdrawal in potentially volatile situations, particularly those involving interpersonal conflict. It highlights how individuals, especially men, can be legally and socially disadvantaged if they fail to disengage and instead escalate a conflict. The core advice is to prioritize personal safety and legal standing by recording oneself leaving a situation rather than engaging or being provoked into physical altercations, which can be weaponized against them.

This video focuses on overcoming psychological barriers during firearms training, particularly for individuals who have experienced trauma. Instructor Mike emphasizes the importance of controlled breathing, positive self-talk, and the 'only way out is through' mentality. The session involves practical application, including loading and firing, with a focus on maintaining a two-hand grip under duress. The instructor encourages continued training to build confidence and proficiency.

This video emphasizes the critical importance of actively engaging holster retention mechanisms. Instructor Mike highlights that even the most secure retention is useless if not properly activated during a draw. The core message is that failure to consistently and correctly engage retention can lead to a weapon being compromised, with potentially life-threatening consequences.

This video emphasizes the critical importance of a proper duty belt setup for firearm retention and overall gear stability. Instructor Mike demonstrates how a standard pants belt, like the 'Steve Harvey belt,' is insufficient for supporting the weight of a duty belt and firearm, leading to potential retention issues and pants falling. He recommends a thicker, more robust belt, specifically mentioning the 5.11 Tactical belt, to adequately support the gear and prevent it from shifting or falling during movement. The use of belt keepers is also highlighted as essential for securing the duty belt to the pants, further enhancing stability and preventing equipment loss.