“In the absence of a certified instructor, many have historically turned to “the gun guy” (who is just as often “the gun girl” these days). No matter how much discretion they think they’ve exercised, these people have made themselves noticed. They’re the friend, relative, or coworker who has referenced range time or hunting trips with maturity and authority. Their vehicle may sport some bumper sticker or emblem that references a recognizable brand name or a pro-gun organization. Perhaps they let slip their knowledge of the local concealed carry application process or technical data about firearms or ballistics. Whatever the case, they’ve been subconsciously flagged as an approachable person who just might know some important things.”
Over the last decade, the ranks of American gun owners have swelled dramatically. It would be nice to think all these new shooters have received professional instruction, but that’s not very realistic. Many would have had no clue where to begin, and no one to ask. Others would have turned to the Internet – and promptly gotten overwhelmed by hundreds of pages of raging opinion, stunning them into permanent procrastination.
But training is critical. A gun is just a tool, but it is not a forgiving one. Mishandling of a firearm, failure to proactive fundamental safety rules, ignorance of you specific gun’s features and functions – all can have deadly consequences.
In the absence of a certified instructor, many have historically turned to “the gun guy” (who is just as often “the gun girl” these days). No matter how much discretion they think they’ve exercised, these people have made themselves noticed. They’re the friend, relative, or coworker who has referenced range time or hunting trips with maturity and authority. Their vehicle may sport some bumper sticker or emblem that references a recognizable brand name or a pro-gun organization. Perhaps they let slip their knowledge of the local concealed carry application process or technical data about firearms or ballistics. Whatever the case, they’ve been subconsciously flagged as an approachable person who just might know some important things.
by Keith Coniglio
