Gun Guys – Ep. 02: Early Training Days

This combat shooting drill, 'Standing Kneeling Prone,' emphasizes transitioning between shooting positions while maintaining situational awareness. It requires 10 rounds total, with two shots fired from standing, kneeling, and prone positions, followed by a return to kneeling and then standing for the final shots. The drill stresses accuracy in the high A-zone and the critical importance of checking your surroundings before repositioning.

Mike Wallace, Chief Instructor at Bravo Tactical, details the 'Big Red' dynamic movement shooting course at Sierra One facility. This intermediate-level drill emphasizes engaging targets at varying distances (125-300 yards) over 330 yards of movement, with a 30-second penalty for missed shots. The course simulates real-world scenarios by incorporating physical exertion at over 6,000 ft elevation, requiring shooters to manage breathing and heart rate for accurate shots.

This video from Geauga Firearms Academy debunks the myth of shooting specific body parts like the hand or leg to stop a threat. Instructor Kim explains that the primary goal of using deadly force is to stop the threat, not to kill. He emphasizes that under extreme stress, aiming for small targets like hands or legs is ineffective due to reduced accuracy and the presence of vital arteries in those areas. The instruction highlights that center mass is the recommended target area because it's the largest and most accessible under duress, a principle used by law enforcement and military. The video also stresses the importance of de-escalation and using alternative, less-lethal methods if available before resorting to deadly force.

This guide, presented by an expert from Farewell Firearms Training, addresses the common 'tactical turtle' shooting posture. It explains how raising the shoulders and traps creates tension, negatively impacting shooting performance. The technique focuses on actively dropping the shoulders and engaging the lats to achieve a stable shooting structure, crucial for law enforcement, military, and competitive shooters.

Project Blue Lion, a charitable initiative by Howitzer Manufacturing, offers free performance training to law enforcement officers. This program leverages a cadre of experienced shooters to deliver top-tier instruction. The training aims to enhance officer capabilities, potentially incorporating elements like scenario-based decision-making and timed drills, as evidenced by the use of shot timers and visual aids.

This interview with Ken Hackathorn delves into the history and impact of Gunsite Academy and its founder, Jeff Cooper. It highlights Cooper's pioneering role in combat shooting, the development of the Gunsite 250 course, and the enduring legacy of the 1911 pistol. The discussion also touches on the survivalist movement's influence and the importance of professional firearms training for self-defense.

This guide details the dangers of 'thumbing the hammer down' on a loaded firearm, a technique strongly advised against by experts. It emphasizes that this action, which involves pulling the trigger while manually lowering the hammer, carries a high risk of accidental discharge if the thumb slips. The expert instruction highlights safer alternatives like engaging the manual safety for 'cocked and locked' carry or clearing the chamber entirely.

This guide details the advanced technique of hand stippling a 1911 firearm frame for enhanced grip, as demonstrated by a master gunsmith. It covers the precise application of texture using a punch and hammer, followed by meticulous filing to refine the edges. This process requires significant skill and attention to detail for a professional finish.

This guide details the proper technique for cycling the slide on a semi-automatic pistol, specifically the 1911, as explained by Ken Hackathorn. It emphasizes avoiding "gun abuse" by not slamming the slide on an empty chamber, which can cause premature wear. The explanation includes the mechanical reasons behind this, focusing on how the cartridge rim stabilizes the extractor and cushions the slide's action.

Massad Ayoob, a renowned firearms instructor and legal expert, details the critical post-Defensive Gun Use (DGU) protocol. He emphasizes that the most common mistake is failing to immediately call 911 after a DGU, even if no shots were fired. This action is crucial for establishing oneself as the victim complainant in the ensuing legal aftermath.