Every so often during conversations on firearms training, there is a focus on who is qualified to teach it. Some contend the only ones who can adequately prepare you – a legally armed civilian, possibly with a concealed carry permit out in public or protecting your family in your own home – for a self-defense encounter are former Delta, SEALs or Spetsnaz operators. Really?
These true, professional operators are highly trained and experienced in unconventional military missions such as counter-terrorism and covert operations. It takes years to learn their trade and they relentlessly train to hone that skill. They are the best of the best of the best and they’ve earned it the hard way. That being said, it is highly unlikely you will learn how to effectively infiltrate, stalk and kill your enemy in an eight-hour Saturday class – nor would you really want to.
So where is this coming from? From what I can see this originates in a couple of places. One is the now all to frequent revelation of someone in the industry who hasn’t been exactly truthful about his or her background. Some exaggerate their military experience ‘just a bit’ to be more credible while others fall right into the stolen valor category. Beware the instructor who can’t publish his photo or last name because of ‘security concerns’.
The other is from so-called experts who are trying to make a name in a competitive market. By spouting off some tactical jargon, referencing unverifiable affiliations and criticizing instructors they’ve never met or training programs they’ve never been to, they hope to build a following based on their critique of others.
It’s true a lot of absolutely exceptional instructors have military or law enforcement backgrounds. But keep in mind this is merely a foundation, not the final word of being a competent instructor. Just because someone served in the armed forces doesn’t mean they are either qualified OR a good instructor for the military, LEO or civilian market. US military training is excellent for what it is intended for, military operations. But not all military tactics are suited for, or legally justified, in the civilian world. Applying them to your self-defense situation may get you convicted, sued or worse.
Here’s another secret, you don’t have to be former military to be a great firearms instructor. I’ve been to a lot of training over the years and was surprised to learn some of the top-notch trainers out there have never been in the military, yet they still teach front line military, law enforcement as well as civilians. Hard to believe? It shouldn’t be. These are individuals who have made a commitment to their profession and are always learning, training and updating themselves and their programs. They are at the forefront of the industry which is why they are sought out by the people who need these skills the most.
I’ve said this before and I’ll repeat it here. Finding a good, qualified instructor and training environment is critical. Specifically when it comes to self-defense training, you need an instructor who will provide a realistic, challenging and safe program.
Here are a few things you should look for:
• Do the instructors have applicable and current certifications?
• Do the instructors have a relevant background and experience to teach this type of training?
• Do the instructors continue to participate in student and instructor level training themselves?
• Can the instructors provide student references?
• Do the instructors carry the proper insurance?
• Are the instructors willing to discuss their background, program and your needs with you?
When it comes to self-defense firearms training, you need to look past the armchair quarterback evaluations, vague references to experience or training and unverifiable war stories. It’s not only your time and money; it could very well be your life. Caveat Emptor – Let the buyer beware.
Bob
#oddstuffing, #2ndamendment, #firearmstraining, #caveatemptor, #operator