Last week we got a pamphlet in our letterbox advertising a local rifle range open day. It was from a couple of different shooting clubs, (and a RC plane club) - where you could go and try your hand at shooting. My wife was immediately interested in going and suggested we attend.
And we both had a blast!
Both my brothers, and even my Father came as well. The range was split up into different clubs, and their particular speciality (ie Rifles, Pistols, Air rifles, air pistols, small calibre pistols/rifle etc). The Wife has always wanted to try pistols, and seeing how I've never shot one - I thought why not.
After the sign in (with obligatory showing of the photo ID), and paying $2 for the five round shoot...there was a safety video, and then another talk about safety, grips etc - and then we lined up and collected our safety glasses and hearing protection. There were 3 ranges, with six shooters at the tables at each range - with an instructor with every shooter. The range was open and there were plenty of uniformed and brightly marked club members and officials. It was an obviously well run event.
After a quick talk about the range rules, I was led to the instructor, introduced my self - and he then showed the pistol (a Glock 17) I was going to use, and gave me an instructions on its use.
I must say the heart was beating really fast, and even before I squeezed my first round - the sudden noise of the shots around me really gave me a start. I fired my first round - and was shocked by how quickly it discharged and how fast it was over. And then I slowly aimed and fired my remaining 4 rounds scoring a bullseye (!!!), the remaining 4 spread around the target (2 close to the bullseye). After it was called safe I collected my target and walked back to the safe line comparing shots with my wife (who also nearly bullseyed twice with her glock) beaming. I looked at her and smiled, and we both immediately lined up again!
About 20 mins later I had a HK .45 USP in my hands. After getting used to the wider grip - and again steadying the nerves, I again fired with 2 bullseye, and the last 3 just off - but all 5 were very closely grouped. As I safety'd the pistol and stood back I watched my wife fire another Glock. She was having trouble but her instructor was really great and was patiently trying to correct her. He then safety'd her weapon, and pulled out his own personal pistol and gave it to her and they ended up firing about another 15 or so rounds working on her troubles.
When we both walked back the instructors all complimented me on my shooting (now THAT put a smile on my face) and asked to seriously consider taking it up - especially seeing how it was literally only my second time and I did so well - and all recommended I join the club....which my wife and I prompty agreed to.
We both had a great time - the club members seemed like all great people, extemely courteous, helpful and obviously passionate about their sport...and I highly recommend it to anyone who gets the chance!
Tronsky
