Vetting Firearm Instructors: Finding the Right Fit for Civilians
Choosing the right firearms instructor is critical for anyone looking to enhance their shooting skills and gun safety knowledge. While many instructors come with impressive credentials, such as military or law enforcement backgrounds, ensuring they have the experience and teaching style that suits civilian learners is important. This blog post discusses how to vet firearm instructors, emphasizing the importance of their experience with civilian students. It includes an anecdote highlighting the differences in training needs between military personnel and civilians.
1. Importance of Civilian Teaching Experience:
Military vs. Civilian Training: Instructors with military backgrounds bring valuable expertise, but their teaching methods may be more suited to individuals with similar foundational training, which most civilians lack.
Adapting to Civilian Needs: Instructors must understand and adapt to the unique learning needs of civilian students, who may have diverse backgrounds and experience levels.
2. Checking Credentials and Background:
Qualifications: Look for instructors with recognized certifications from reputable organizations.
Experience: Beyond their professional background, consider their experience in teaching civilians specifically.
3. Teaching Style and Approach:
Communication Skills: A good instructor should communicate effectively, explaining concepts clearly and patiently.
Practical vs. Theoretical: Seek instructors who balance practical skills with necessary theoretical knowledge, catering to the learning style of civilian students.
4. Safety Record and Focus:
Safety First: Prioritize instructors with a strong emphasis on safety. Review their safety protocols and track record.
Student Feedback: Check reviews or testimonials from previous students, focusing on comments regarding safety practices.
5. Customized Training Programs:
Personalized Approach: Instructors should offer or be willing to tailor their programs to meet their students' individual needs and goals.
Skill Level Consideration: Ensure the instructor can cater to your specific skill level, whether you are a beginner or an experienced shooter.
6. Observing a Class:
First-Hand Experience: If possible, observe a class or ask to participate in a trial session to understand the instructor's teaching style and student interaction.
7. Personal Comfort and Rapport:
Comfort Level: You must feel comfortable and respected by the instructor.
Rapport: A good student-instructor relationship enhances the learning experience and helps achieve your training goals.
Anecdote:
Experience with a Military Instructor: We once attended a class taught by an instructor with a strong military background currently serving in some 3-letter agency ‘Department of Defense’ and as a current operator. Although his knowledge and points were accurate, his disappointment in the discipline level of civilian learners led to miscommunication and a less effective training experience for both the instructor and the students. In his famous words describing his class, “What a shitshow.” This highlighted the gap between military-style teaching and civilian learning needs.
Note: Training schools must be responsible for vetting their instructors before charging students total class fees on someone they’re testing. (am I still bitter? Mayhaps.)
Selecting the right firearm instructor is about more than just credentials; it's about finding someone who understands and effectively addresses the needs of civilian shooters. The right instructor should possess the technical skills, knowledge, and ability to adapt their teaching to a civilian audience, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and productive learning environment. By carefully vetting potential instructors and considering these key factors, civilians can find a trainer to help them achieve their firearms proficiency and safety goals.
