A Student’s Perspective: Sim City Part 1
When I write my thoughts as a student at Shoot Logic, I want to share moments that I’ve had, when I’ve had palpable experiences that have uncovered misconceptions and mistakes in my shooting adventures. I am constantly seeking “a-ha” moments, and so often, they can only be uncovered through trial, error, and of course, mentorship. My agenda is honestly to get anyone that might be nervous or intimidated to take a risk, and discover that taking a gun class or trying out a competitive sport is always worth it. You will get better. You will have fun. You will meet new friends. I’ve been putzing around the Shoot Logic range for a few years now, and not only can I use myself as an example, but I know so many folks who are on the same path and I’m sure they feel the exact same way. Well, I have something new to share. A new event, or dare I say, an opportunity for anyone interested in changing EVERYTHING you think you know about using your firearm defensively. Late in 2015, a few Shoot Logic regular customers participated in a “beta test”, or “dress rehearsal” as it were, for Shoot Logics’ latest training tool – The Simmunitions Shoot House. Tommy and his team were working out the kinks for their latest addition to the facility, and wanted to have a dry run to double check their lesson plan, safety protocols, and the timing of the new class. I was asked to take the class and give some feedback from; you guessed it, “The Student’s Perspective”. I will tell you honestly, when I heard that Shoot Logic was building an arena for “Force on Force” firearms training, I wasn’t sure what to think. In spite of my growth as a shooter, I couldn’t help but wonder if this was just too high speed/low drag, and meant more for “Tier-1 operators” than a 40-year-old pudgy office worker. In spite of all the classes and competitions, I still get antsy when I feel like I have to put my skills to the test, and this test actually has people shooting back at you. Let me be 100% clear. I was wrong. My concerns were completely unfounded. I spent a day at Shoot Logic with several other students taking a run at the possible curriculum planned for the shoot house. I can say, without the slightest hesitation, that the Simmunitions class might have been the greatest single day of firearms training I have ever experienced. Due to the nature of the class, I cannot go into detail. It is a reactive class that places you, the student, in very realistic situations that you’ve probably thought about or read about in the “It Happened To Me” sections of your favorite gun magazines. You will find yourself facing a palpable fear, as you wonder if you should even draw a weapon, let alone discharge it. You will question your skill level, you will question your grasp of the law, and you will definitely question your willingness to run headlong into a possible gunfight. If you are carrying a gun for personal defense, or perhaps carrying a gun in the name of protecting others, you have to take this class. Once again, I’ve walked into a class feeling that I know the score, and quickly found out that there is so much more to learn. While I can’t share class details, I will share a few “big picture” thoughts that might answer any questions. Is it safe? – Yes. The Simmunitions projectiles are sort of a hybrid of a bullet and a paintball. They have enough speed that they need to be taken seriously. Shoot Logic has helmets/facemasks for the students, and those that enroll will be sent a list of protective gear that will be required (nothing to fancy or expensive). Additionally, Tommy and the staff have a set of safety protocols to ensure that no weapons can get anywhere near the “Arena”. The staff heavily monitors the scenarios, and as always, the students are also on guard for each other’s safety. Does it hurt? – Frankly, I can’t say that a wax projectile hitting you at 300 feet per second tickles. However, everyone involved with the class walked away with a few scrapes and bruises, but no one was complaining. It is important to remember that this is a class in “gun fighting”. There is no such thing as a martial art that doesn’t ask you take a take a lump or two. However, at 40 years old, I was the youngest participant, and none of us were ex-military, LEO, or particularly rough and tumble people. If we could do it, than anyone can do it. If you are worried about the infliction of pain, please stop and don’t let that hold you back. It is hardly worth considering in my estimation. Is it fun? – Yes. Yes it is. What’s so revolutionary? – I will never again daydream about clearing my home like Jack Bauer. I’ve learned that even if I’m a decent shooter, my speed or accuracy has no relationship to being bulletproof. I learned that pulling my gun is easy, but defusing a tense situation is impossible when you have a gun in your hand. So much of what I take for granted was challenged, and I’m wiser for it. What did I learn? I learned that Shoot Logic has taught me to be a more accurate shooter and competent gun handler over the last few years. They have taught me how to use the gun in my hand. Now, they are teaching me when the gun should be in my hand, and to ask myself why I’ve chosen to put the gun in my hand. Over the years, Shoot Logic has added a myriad of tools into my abilities. I’ve been asked to push my concept of accuracy. I’ve been held hostage to the cruel mistress that is a shot timer. I’ve been exposed to a wealth of instructors, from local SWAT officers, to some of the biggest names in Competition and Military circles. Now, I’ve been given the chance to take that knowledge and use it in a stressful, but still safe environment. I will be back in the shoot house soon, that is for sure. Now, if I can only convince them to name it “Hogan’s Alley”… |
Mike HoganMike Hogan is a forever student of shooting and is an avid shooter and collector. A self avowed mall-ninja...he does that to hide the fact that he can write. Archives
June 2017
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