When I was teaching English and communications classes at several college campuses about a decade ago, I took on the added responsibility of teaching some online courses. But I was a bit dumbfounded when one of the classes needed the most was an online speech class. Yes. A speech class.

For those who wish to become the best protectors they can be for themselves and their families, myriad training aids exist. These tools can make a person a more competent shooter and defender. Some…

This past week, I was talking to my neighbor, a doctor, who told me about one of his patients. His story was a good reminder for regular firearms practice. The man had been hiking in a wilderness…

“Practice does not make perfect. Only perfect practice makes perfect.” – Vince Lombardi   I received my practical instruction on the M1911 pistol during my training as a combat medic in the United…

I had a great opportunity to take the USCCA’s Women’s Handgun & Self-Defense Fundamentals course on the road not too long ago. I ended up teaching at Cape Gun Works in Hyannis, Massachusetts, to a…

For instructors and students alike, experience is the epitome of learning the methods and techniques practiced. Validation through reality-based training proves ability and reveals areas on which…

Most gunfights happen at very close range. When fighting in close, it often pays to step toward your attacker. Yes, it may seem odd, but think about it. In an Extreme Close Quarters (ECQ) fight, you…

My husband and I recently took a class with Matt Sims, a local shooting favorite who is a law enforcement officer and a sponsored competitive shooter. We were mostly focusing on skills and drills for…

I still remember the crisp, cool Arizona mornings at Gunsite Academy. I hadn’t packed quite enough warm clothing to layer on for the surprisingly chilly start to each day. So I had borrowed a…

Dry-fire training does not often provide instant feedback. It’s not like shooting at steel plates or other reactionary targets. As shooters, we love that satisfying “ping” we get when hitting a…

We are getting into uncharted territory here. This is something I have never tried — something I have never trained to do — and I honestly am going into this basically blind. Reloading a Revolver…

Is firearms training based on dogma? Let’s ask one simple question and see if you have an open mind when it comes to firearms training and practicing the much-needed skills that will keep you alive…