Let Talk About my Competition Shooting Question: Is it Cosplay?

Published on October 7, 2024
Duration: 61:30

This video critically examines the application of competition shooting techniques to real-world self-defense scenarios. Instructor Mike argues that while competition shooting can improve speed and accuracy on a controlled range, it often fails to adequately train the brain for the unpredictable nature of actual threats. He emphasizes the importance of realistic training where targets fall and provide feedback, contrasting this with the 'two shots and move' mentality prevalent in some competition circles. The video advocates for training systems that simulate dynamic threat engagement and emphasize threat assessment over mere marksmanship perfection.

Quick Summary

Competition shooting often focuses on speed and accuracy on static targets in a 'one-way range' environment, which may not translate to real-world self-defense. Instructor Mike argues that effective self-defense requires training the brain to assess and confirm threat neutralization, not just achieve shooting perfection.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction: Competition Shooting Debate
  2. 01:39Analyzing Competition Footage
  3. 03:32Competition Gear vs. Concealed Carry
  4. 04:44Shooting Perfection vs. Tactics
  5. 06:07Static Targets and Brain Training
  6. 08:43Priming for Evolution
  7. 09:30Real-World Application of Competition
  8. 10:44Instructor Mike's Target System
  9. 12:06Real-World Threat Scenarios
  10. 13:57Steel Targets and Ricochet Risks
  11. 14:50SMASH System Explained
  12. 17:14Threat Neutralization Confirmation
  13. 19:18Shot Strings and Brain Response
  14. 20:11Auditory Exclusion Under Stress
  15. 22:45Brain Training for Dynamic Threats
  16. 25:09Retired Green Beret's Perspective
  17. 26:29Competition vs. Real Life Tactics
  18. 29:39Viewer Comments and Mentality
  19. 32:07One-Way Range Limitations
  20. 35:16Unrealistic Priming
  21. 36:06Assessing Training Effectiveness
  22. 37:42Mag Changes and Movement
  23. 39:19Shot vs. Hit vs. Down
  24. 41:36Movie Reference: Inglorious Basterds
  25. 44:46First Goal: Threat Neutralization
  26. 45:38Auditory Exclusion and Steel Targets
  27. 47:27Varied Shot Strings and Target Fall
  28. 49:29One-Handed vs. Two-Handed Shooting
  29. 50:04Critique of 'Two Shots and Move'
  30. 51:03Avoiding Situations and Realistic Training
  31. 52:08Competition vs. Self-Defense Value
  32. 53:00Hunters vs. Competition Shooters
  33. 53:35Pushback from Competition Shooters
  34. 54:04Falling to Level of Training
  35. 54:14Final Question: What If Target Doesn't Fall?
  36. 55:07Civilian vs. Military/LE Context
  37. 56:14Demonstrating SMASH System
  38. 57:12Target Still Standing: Success?
  39. 57:57Conclusion and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main criticism of competition shooting for self-defense?

The primary criticism is that competition shooting often takes place on a 'one-way range' with static targets that don't simulate real threats. This can lead to habits like 'shooting perfection' over tactical awareness and failing to train the brain to confirm a threat is neutralized before disengaging, which is crucial in self-defense.

Why is the 'two shots and move' mentality problematic for concealed carriers?

The 'two shots and move' mentality, common in competition, can be problematic because it doesn't train the shooter to confirm if the threat is actually down and out of the fight. In a real-world scenario, failing to confirm neutralization could mean the threat can still engage you.

What makes Instructor Mike's 'SMASH' system different from competition shooting?

Instructor Mike's 'SMASH' system (Shoot and Move Around Till Something Happens) emphasizes dynamic engagement with targets that fall and provide feedback. This contrasts with competition shooting's focus on speed and points on static targets, aiming to train the brain for the unpredictable nature of real threats.

How does auditory exclusion affect training in stressful situations?

Under stress, auditory exclusion can occur, meaning you might not hear sounds like steel targets falling. This highlights the importance of visual confirmation of threat neutralization, as relying solely on sound cues from competition drills can be unreliable in a real-world encounter.

What is the 'one-way range' concept in firearms training?

A 'one-way range' is a training environment where targets do not pose a threat back to the shooter. While useful for practicing marksmanship, it's criticized for not adequately preparing individuals for the high-stress, dynamic, and potentially lethal encounters of real-world self-defense scenarios.

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