Choosing An Instructor:
So, you have decided to spend some of your hard earned money on firearms training…. good for you! Before you whip out your credit card though, think back to some of the teachers you have had in the past. Some were poor, some mediocre, a few pretty good and, every once in a while, one was truly inspiring! What makes an Instructor really good? Some of the best teachers we can recall had not only a command of the subject matter, but a real passion for the subject as well. When an Instructor really loves what he or she does, it shows. Also, real experience matters. Having real experience gives credibility, allows the Instructor to present anecdotal material, and enriches the training experience.
When choosing an Instructor, take time to consider a few things:
· First who are they? Ask about their credentials and/or Certifications. Listen carefully for what they won't tell you.If they seem evasive, less than forthcoming, (or won’t even give you their real name)… proceed cautiously. There are plenty out there that would love to separate you from your money.
· Second, what is their level of experience? An Instructor Certificate does not necessarily make one an Instructor. How long have they been teaching? How often do they teach? How often do they attend training themselves? (the best Instructors are also students) Do they attend different types of training? Do they Compete? Do they practice what they preach? Can/do they demonstrate their proficiency?
· Third, do they come highly recommended by reputable sources? Ask around. Search the internet and social media sites for reviews. Look especially for repeat reviews from repeat customers. It's hard to judge the quality of a barrel of apples by one apple.
· Fourth, does the trainer have access to an adequate training facility? Many "Instructors" overlook a very important part of the equation....a place to shoot! Ask about the facilities. Are berms adequate? Are wing berms or barriers in place to catch errant rounds? Is the terrain smooth and even, or muddy and strewn with debris? Shooting ranges need not be elaborate; however, they must be safe. A six foot pile of dirt between two houses, a pile of tires, or a stack of railroad ties in the backyard, may be cause to pause.
The bottom line is that your money is hard earned, and your time is valuable. A good training experience should leave the student more informed, confident and, motivated to learn more. Do yourself a favor; take the time to do your research.
When choosing an Instructor, take time to consider a few things:
· First who are they? Ask about their credentials and/or Certifications. Listen carefully for what they won't tell you.If they seem evasive, less than forthcoming, (or won’t even give you their real name)… proceed cautiously. There are plenty out there that would love to separate you from your money.
· Second, what is their level of experience? An Instructor Certificate does not necessarily make one an Instructor. How long have they been teaching? How often do they teach? How often do they attend training themselves? (the best Instructors are also students) Do they attend different types of training? Do they Compete? Do they practice what they preach? Can/do they demonstrate their proficiency?
· Third, do they come highly recommended by reputable sources? Ask around. Search the internet and social media sites for reviews. Look especially for repeat reviews from repeat customers. It's hard to judge the quality of a barrel of apples by one apple.
· Fourth, does the trainer have access to an adequate training facility? Many "Instructors" overlook a very important part of the equation....a place to shoot! Ask about the facilities. Are berms adequate? Are wing berms or barriers in place to catch errant rounds? Is the terrain smooth and even, or muddy and strewn with debris? Shooting ranges need not be elaborate; however, they must be safe. A six foot pile of dirt between two houses, a pile of tires, or a stack of railroad ties in the backyard, may be cause to pause.
The bottom line is that your money is hard earned, and your time is valuable. A good training experience should leave the student more informed, confident and, motivated to learn more. Do yourself a favor; take the time to do your research.