By Richard Dockery, April 9, 2020
“I don’t need training, I know how to shoot a gun” is a an all too often heard statement made by both new gun owners as well as more “experienced” shooters when the subject of training comes up. I wouldn’t say the majority feel this way, but enough to make it not only common, but an easy trap to fall into.
There is such a thing as the Dunning Krueger curve. This is basically a chart that depicts the relationship of acquired knowledge to the typical attitude, or confidence, of the person with that knowledge. The curve is often shown as below (from an article in medium.com):
Firearms and shooting, like anything, has a learning curve. Granted anyone can watch a television show, or YouTube, or even take an entry level course and be able to load and fire a firearm and feel successful. The issue comes with making the bullet go where you want it to, consistently, and under pressure. Often times people on the peak of the curve have significant confidence that they are “a good shot”…and they very well might be. Remember, however, that Standing at a shooting range taking your time and making holes in targets may/will build confidence (and if done consistently, will build necessary muscle memory) but is very different from dealing with a confrontation. The real world seldom plays out like the range…adrenaline pumps, everything moves quickly, and the performance you experienced at the range often seems to go missing. Static range shooting is a necessary step for skills development and Maintenance, but should never be the end of your training.
The most effective and experienced shooters I have met still train, practice, and continuously work on developing, reinforcing, and maintaining their skills. They know that there is always more to learn, always room to improve, and always room to solidify your muscle memory to the point that your body takes over when your mind shuts down. Jim Cirillo, one of the more successful and experienced “modern gunfighters” once described a confrontation he had as a third part experience where he was wondering who was shooting his gun. He survived that, and many other encounters, as a result of a lifetime of constant training and development. His body was able to manage effectively while his mind was on the sidelines.
When you think about the time and expense involved in training, also ask yourself the reason behind why you are carrying a gun, and what price you put on your survival. There is no substitute for training and proper practice.
Remember, when 3 guys approach you at the gas station at night, will you ever think “I’m glad I never took that class and left my gun on the shelf for 6 months”….or…” I am so glad I took that class and have been practicing…I got this!” Possibly neither, but you get the point.
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Femme Fatale ARMS & Training is a woman-owned business that provides education and support to an over victimized and underserved segment of our population. We have programs to build confidence and skill without the intimidating aspects that tend to exist elsewhere in this industry. Our goal is customer satisfaction and loyalty. We’d appreciate an opportunity to show you how we are different, yet still, help you to accomplish your education and safety goals.
Femme Fatale Arms & Training is located at 4270 Minton Rd #107 in
West Melbourne, Florida 32904 ????We are open Mon-Sat 11 AM to 6 PM
Call us with questions at (321) 327-3790 or visit FemmeFataleArms.com for more info today.
