EJSG19 wrote:I was a little skeptical before my first match of any sort. Much like i was before i took any defensive firearm class.
In both cases I was eating humble pie after attending. The biggest advantage i gained from either was simply having my abilities put into perspective. No i was not the worst, and i certainly was not the best. But i knew for sure that practicing by myself wasnt cutting it. I was perfectly content with my "skills" when shooting on my own. I was SO glad I didnt continue to be content with that.
PTC type folks tend to be the personality that tells themselves they have things under control, or whatever they do themselves is best. Dangerous thoughts for preparing to defend yourself from the unknown.
Otherwise, its fun, simple as that. No matter if you compete against the others, or just try to better your own performance. Either way it is beneficial. I hadnt even tried shooting as fast, because i thought i was already fast as is. WRONG i was!!! So, for nay sayers, try it and see, you may be doing yourself a favor. The ammo and equipment cost is pretty small, often time its stuff you should have anyway (several magazines for example). Most events are only 150 rounds and often less. Thats less than a good range session for me for round count. Lots worse ways to blow money (smoking, beer, brass pole joints, all come to mind however alluring).
You will see what good technique is for drawing, grip, timing, movement, etc. These are things you dont get from reading books or "trusting your own judgement". Events, matches and classes completely changed my idea of what my proficiency ought to be. That is IMO huge.
Amen!!!
