IS OLD SCHOOL FIREARMS TRAINING STILL GOOD? – Audio Podcast Episode 62

Published on December 6, 2019
Duration: 28:35

This content emphasizes that traditional target shooting methods are often ineffective in real-world self-defense scenarios. It advocates for developing instinctive aiming (point shooting) and extreme speed in drawing and firing, drawing heavily from the teachings of W.E. Fairbairn, Eric Sykes, Rex Applegate, and Bill Jordan. The core message is that practice under realistic, difficult conditions is crucial for survival, as technology can fail and speed is paramount.

Quick Summary

Old-school firearms training, particularly techniques from authors like Fairbairn, Sykes, Applegate, and Jordan, emphasizes instinctive aiming and extreme speed for close-quarters combat. These methods are still highly relevant as they focus on practical skills for real-world self-defense scenarios where traditional target shooting fundamentals are often impractical.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro and Podcast Welcome
  2. 01:06The Concept of Timeless Training Principles
  3. 01:24Martial Arts Background and Core Principles
  4. 03:44Reviewing Classic Firearms Training Books
  5. 05:00Fairbairn & Sykes: 'Shooting to Live'
  6. 06:04Technology vs. Fundamental Skills
  7. 07:05Quote: Target Shooting vs. Combat Pistol
  8. 08:54The Difference Between Target and Combat Shooting
  9. 09:38Statistics of Close-Proximity Engagements
  10. 10:03Support the Podcast: Amazon Link
  11. 10:51Fairbairn & Sykes' Combat Experience
  12. 11:14Combat Engagement Distances and Conditions
  13. 12:15Darkness Favors the Criminal
  14. 12:22One-Handed vs. Two-Handed Shooting in Defense
  15. 13:33Chalk and Cheese: Target vs. Life-Saving Shooting
  16. 14:13Three Essential Points for Combat Shooting
  17. 14:38Essential 1: Extreme Speed
  18. 15:52Essential 2: Instinctive Aiming (Point Shooting)
  19. 17:07Essential 3: Practice Under Combat Conditions
  20. 17:39The Necessity for Speed in Affrays
  21. 18:04Directness of Old-School Authors
  22. 18:18Preview: Long Guns and Old Techniques
  23. 18:31Appreciation for Listener Support
  24. 19:02Patreon for Exclusive Content
  25. 19:33Aiming: Traditional vs. Close Quarters
  26. 20:33Fundamentals Speeded Up or Eliminated in Combat
  27. 21:05Quote: Instinctive Aiming and Speed
  28. 22:00Technology Limitations: Batteries and Fade
  29. 22:25The Enduring Value of Old Techniques
  30. 23:01Brilliant Explanation of Point Shooting
  31. 23:24The Finger Pointing Analogy
  32. 24:26Basis of Training System: Instinctive Aiming
  33. 24:45Hitting Man-Sized Targets at Short Ranges
  34. 24:54The Astounding Effectiveness of Old Books
  35. 25:11Old Ways vs. Trendy Techniques
  36. 25:51Recommended Books: Shooting to Live, Kill or Get Killed, No Second Place Winner
  37. 27:20Civilian Defense with Handguns
  38. 27:46Transition to Long Guns Discussion
  39. 28:13Conclusion of Syndicated Podcast

Frequently Asked Questions

Is traditional target shooting useful for self-defense?

According to classic firearms texts like 'Shooting to Live,' traditional target shooting is primarily useful for teaching firearm care and handling. It offers little to no value for using a pistol as a weapon of combat, as the skills and conditions are fundamentally different.

What are the key principles of effective combat shooting?

The essential points for combat shooting are extreme speed in drawing and firing, developing instinctive aiming (point shooting) rather than deliberate aim, and practicing under conditions that closely mimic actual fighting scenarios, including low light and awkward positions.

Why is instinctive aiming important for self-defense?

Instinctive aiming, or point shooting, is crucial because in close-quarters combat (typically under 4 yards), there is often no time for traditional sight alignment. Focusing on the threat and using natural pointing ability is faster and more effective when speed is paramount.

Can modern firearm technology replace fundamental combat skills?

While modern technology like red dot sights or night sights can be beneficial, they can also fail. Relying solely on technology is risky. Fundamental skills like instinctive aiming, developed through rigorous practice, ensure effectiveness even when technology is unavailable or malfunctions.

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