253: Military, MilSim, and Filmmaking with Cory Haynes

Published on December 2, 2024
Duration: 125:02

This video explores the immersive world of Milsim West, a large-scale tactical simulation event that bridges the gap between hobby and serious training. It details the FTX-style operations, emphasizing the importance of physical fitness, tactical acumen, and mental fortitude required to sustain operations over extended periods. The discussion highlights how Milsim West provides a realistic, albeit simulated, combat environment for participants to test and refine their skills in areas like small unit tactics, CQB, and operational logistics, offering valuable lessons applicable to real-world scenarios.

Quick Summary

Milsim West offers a highly realistic 40-hour Field Training Exercise (FTX) simulating military operations, led by former military cadre. Participants must be physically and mentally prepared for sustained operations, including extensive rucking and intense force-on-force engagements, providing valuable tactical training and lessons in 'violence of action.'

Chapters

  1. 00:47Milsim West Overview
  2. 01:47Evolution of Milsim
  3. 04:02Civilian vs. Military Training
  4. 05:02What is an FTX?
  5. 06:21Getting Started with Milsim West
  6. 11:39Milsim vs. Airsoft Distinction
  7. 14:37Milsim West Strictness & Uniformity
  8. 16:31Gear & Practical Application
  9. 18:09Testing Skills Beyond the Range
  10. 20:07Gear Fixation vs. Skill Development
  11. 22:29Milsim West as a Tool for Growth
  12. 23:20Finding Milsim Locations
  13. 24:35Force-on-Force Training Realism
  14. 27:58Lessons Learned in Milsim
  15. 30:38Developing Violence of Action
  16. 32:28Path from Airsoft to Milsim
  17. 33:33Milsim Event Structure & Medic Rules
  18. 37:10Milsim West Event Duration
  19. 38:32Milsim Participants: Training vs. Fun
  20. 41:49Cadre Vetting & International Events
  21. 43:37Milsim as a Severe Land Nav Test
  22. 44:04Transition to Filmmaking
  23. 48:04SCP Overlord Film Experience
  24. 50:01Filmmaking Process & Challenges
  25. 53:05Stalker Film Production
  26. 58:40Tactics on Film vs. Reality
  27. 61:10Filmmaking & Narrative Content

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Milsim West and how does it differ from other airsoft events?

Milsim West is a large-scale, 40-hour Field Training Exercise (FTX) that emphasizes realism in military simulation. Unlike typical airsoft games, it focuses on operational objectives, strict uniform adherence, and sustained operations, often involving extensive rucking and tactical scenarios led by former military personnel.

What kind of physical and mental preparation is needed for Milsim West?

Participants must be physically prepared to sustain operations for 40 hours, including significant rucking (up to 37 miles in some events) while carrying essential gear. Mentally, individuals need resilience to endure minimal sleep, constant vigilance, and the intensity of force-on-force engagements.

How does Milsim West contribute to tactical skill development?

Milsim West provides a realistic environment for practicing small unit tactics, CQB, and operational logistics. The force-on-force engagements and scenario-based missions allow participants to test their skills under pressure, learn the importance of 'violence of action,' and understand resource management in a simulated combat setting.

What are the key differences between filming tactics for movies and real-world application?

Filming tactics for movies often involves 'Hollywooding,' where realism is adjusted for cinematic appeal. This can mean closer engagement ranges, modified movements for camera visibility, and spread-out formations, which differ from actual military procedures but enhance narrative storytelling.

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