Learning Center

Top 10 Drills for Improving Handgun Accuracy

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 14:00:01 GMT

Elevate Your Shooting Skills with These Essential Drills

Importance of Handgun Accuracy

Handgun accuracy is vital for effective self-defense and overall shooting proficiency. At Advent Training, we emphasize the importance of accuracy in all our firearm training courses. We are against the concept of "combat effective" as this mindset lowers the bar for the serious self defense practitioner. Here are the top 10 drills to help you enhance your accuracy and become a more proficient shooter. If instructions are not provided it's because you can simply Google the drill to get more information as it is popular drill.

Drill 1: Dry Fire Practice

Dry fire practice is essential for improving trigger control and sight alignment. This can be done in as little as five minutes per session. Practice this daily to develop muscle memory and precision. Remember, no live ammunition should be present during dry fire sessions.

Drill 2: Slow Fire Accuracy

Focus on slow, deliberate shots to achieve tight groupings. The drill is know as "Slow Fire" but it should be more focused on isolating your trigger finger. Target can be anything but ideally you are trying to hit the same spot each time. In order to achieve this place the sights in same spot and don't move any fingers except the trigger finger. This drill improves your accuracy and control, helping you develop a steady hand and consistent shot placement.

Drill 3: Dot Torture

The Dot Torture drill tests your accuracy and consistency. You can simply Google this drill to get the target. Aim for small circles at varying distances to challenge yourself and refine your precision shooting skills.

Drill 4: Ball and Dummy

Load your magazine with a mix of live rounds and dummy rounds. This drill helps diagnose and fix pre-ignition push issues, ensuring smoother trigger pulls and better accuracy.

Drill 5: El Presidente

The El Presidente drill involves shooting multiple targets, reloading, and shooting again. It enhances accuracy, speed, and target transitions, making you a more versatile shooter. It helps you process quicker as it forces you to use your vision.

Drill 6: Bill Drill

Fire six shots as quickly as possible while maintaining accuracy inside the A-zone of a USPSA target. This drill should include a shot timer and the focus should be your grip. It improves your ability to shoot accurately under pressure, a crucial skill for self-defense situations.

Drill 7: Mozambique Drill

Shoot two shots to the chest and one to the head on a USPSA target or similar. This drill helps with shot placement and target transitions. This trains you to lead with your vision and deliver effective shots in high-stress scenarios.

Drill 8: One-Handed Shooting

Practice shooting with both your dominant and non-dominant hand. This improves accuracy and control in various scenarios, ensuring you're prepared for any situation.

Drill 9: Draw and Fire From Concealment

Practice drawing from concealment and firing accurately. This drill enhances speed and precision in real-life situations with your concealed carry gear, making you more effective in every day self-defense.

Drill 10: Transition Drill

Practice transitioning between targets quickly and accurately. Another vision focused drill, it enhances your ability to engage multiple threats efficiently, a vital skill for defensive shooting.

Consistent Deliberate Practice

Consistent deliberate practice is the key to improving handgun accuracy. Incorporate these drills into your routine to become a more proficient shooter. Join us at Advent Training for professional guidance and advanced drills to enhance your skills and achieve handgun proficiency. You can checkout our course offerings HERE

The Importance of Situational Awareness in Self-Defense

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 14:00:00 GMT

Enhancing Your Self-Defense Skills Through Awareness

Situational Awareness Defined

Situational awareness is the ability to recognize, interpret, and respond to potential threats in your environment. It's a critical component of self-defense that can make all the difference in ensuring your safety.

Benefits of Situational Awareness

Situational awareness allows you to identify threats before they escalate. By being aware of your surroundings, you can avoid dangerous situations, react quickly to potential threats, and protect yourself and your loved ones. It enhances your decision-making abilities and keeps you prepared for any scenario.

Techniques to Enhance Situational Awareness

Environmental Scanning: Continuously scan your surroundings and identify potential hazards. Look for unusual behavior or anything out of place.
Avoid Distractions: Stay off your phone and minimize distractions that can take your focus away from your environment.
Have an Exit Plan: Always be aware of escape routes and exits in any location. Knowing where to go can save precious seconds in an emergency.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your gut. Your instincts are often a good indicator of potential danger.

Training for Situational Awareness

Incorporate situational awareness drills into your training routine. At Advent Training, we offer comprehensive self-defense and handgun training that includes situational awareness exercises. These drills simulate real-life scenarios where you must identify and react to potential threats. By practicing these skills, you develop the ability to stay alert and make quick, informed decisions.

Stay Vigilant

Situational awareness is a vital skill for effective self-defense. By staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings, you can prevent potential threats and ensure your safety. Join us at Advent Training to enhance your situational awareness and learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones. Remember, proficiency matters, and being prepared is key to your safety.

Choosing the Right Handgun for Concealed Carry

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 14:00:02 GMT

Essential Tips for Selecting the Perfect Concealed Carry Handgun

Choosing the right handgun for concealed carry is crucial for effective self-defense. With so many options available, it’s important to consider several factors to find the best fit for your needs.

Factors to Consider

When selecting a concealed carry handgun, consider size, weight, capacity, and caliber. A smaller, lightweight handgun is easier to conceal and carry daily. However, it should still have sufficient capacity and be in a caliber size large enough for "stopping power" to be effective in a self-defense scenario. Additionally, consider how the gun feels in your hand and how comfortable you are with it. Ideally, you'd be able to at least have your pinky finger on the frame of the gun in order to control is better. If not, the recoil of the gun will feel more substantial and uncontrollable.

Popular Models for Concealed Carry

Some popular models for concealed carry include the Glock 19, Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, and Sig Sauer P365. These handguns are known for their reliability, ease of use, and concealability. They offer a good balance of size, capacity, and performance, making them favored choices among concealed carriers.

Customizing Your Handgun

Customizing your handgun can enhance comfort and performance. Consider adding a red dot sight for quicker target acquisition, improving the grip with stippling or grip tape, or upgrading the trigger for a smoother pull. These modifications can make a significant difference in your shooting experience and overall effectiveness.

Conclusion: Make an Informed Decision

Choosing the right handgun is a personal decision that depends on your specific needs and preferences. Take the time to try different models and find what works best for you. Join us at Advent Training for professional guidance and training to ensure you’re making an informed decision. Remember, proficiency matters, and if you don't train with your concealed carry you won't be ready for if/when you need it in a self-defense situation.

Handgun Upgrades: Enhancing Performance and Personalization

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 14:00:08 GMT

Discover the Benefits and Drawbacks of Handgun Modifications to Boost Proficiency!

Upgrading your handgun can enhance performance, improve accuracy, and provide a more customized shooting experience. However, it's essential to consider the benefits and drawbacks of each upgrade to make informed decisions. Here, we explore various handgun upgrades, their advantages, and potential downsides.

Upgrading Your Handgun Sights

Pros:

Improved Accuracy: Enhanced sights can provide better target acquisition and precision.
Faster Target Acquisition: High-visibility sights, like fiber optics or night sights, allow quicker alignment, especially in low-light conditions.
Customization: Various sight options are available to suit individual preferences and shooting styles.

Cons:

Cost: High-quality sights can be expensive.
Installation: May require professional installation, adding to the overall cost.
Adjustment Period: Transitioning to new sights may require time and practice to adapt.

Adding a Laser Sight

Pros:

Enhanced Aiming: Laser sights provide a visual indicator of where the shot will land, aiding in quick and accurate targeting.
Training Aid: Useful for dry fire practice, helping shooters understand their trigger control and aiming.
Low-Light Conditions: Effective in dim environments where traditional sights may be hard to see.

Cons:

Reliability: Batteries can fail, and lasers can lose alignment if not maintained properly.
Dependency: Shooters may become overly reliant on the laser, potentially neglecting fundamental shooting skills.
Accuracy: If not zeroed correctly, accuracy could be hindered.

Installing a New Barrel for Greater Accuracy and Distance

Pros:

Increased Accuracy: Precision barrels can enhance shot placement and consistency.
Extended Range: A high-quality barrel can improve performance at longer distances.
Customization: Options like threaded barrels allow for further attachments, such as suppressors or compensators.

Cons:

Cost: Precision barrels can be quite expensive.
Compatibility: Not all barrels fit all handguns; ensuring compatibility is crucial or hiring a gunsmith for installation.
Installation: Professional installation may be necessary, adding to the cost.

Adding a Compensator (Comp) to Help Reduce Recoil

Pros:

Reduced Recoil: Comps help manage recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots and better control.
Improved Accuracy: Less muzzle flip can lead to more consistent shot placement.
Enhanced Performance: Particularly beneficial for competition shooting where speed and accuracy are critical.

Cons:

Increased Noise and Muzzle Blast: Comps can make the handgun louder and produce more noticeable muzzle flash.
Contact Shooting Risks: When shooting at contact distances, the spalling can injure or distract the shooter, affecting performance.
Legal Considerations: Comps may not be legal in all jurisdictions.

Changing the Grip (Stippling or Skateboard Tape) to Improve Grip and Control

Pros:

Enhanced Control: Improved grip texture helps maintain control during rapid firing and high round counts.
Customization: Allows shooters to tailor the grip to their hand size and preferences.
Improved Comfort: Reduces slippage and increases comfort during extended shooting sessions.

Cons:

Permanent Modification: Stippling is a permanent change that may affect the resale value of the firearm.
DIY Risks: Poorly executed grip modifications can damage the gun and negatively impact handling.
Cost: Professional stippling services can be expensive.
Initial Discomfort: Rougher grip textures can cause sores or cuts until the shooter's hands develop calluses.

Adding a Red Dot Sight for Target-Focused Shooting

Pros:

Faster Target Acquisition: Red dots allow shooters to focus on the target rather than aligning front and rear sights.
Increased Accuracy: Provides a single point of aim, which can enhance precision.
Versatility: Effective in various lighting conditions, including lowlight, and shooting scenarios.
Single Focal Plane: Unlike iron sights, which require aligning three focal planes, red dots provide a single point of focus (the target).

Cons:

Cost: High-quality red dot sights can be pricey.
Battery Dependence: Requires batteries, which can fail at inopportune times.
Learning Curve: Transitioning to a red dot sight may require practice and adjustment.

Adding a Weapon Mounted Light for Low Light Conditions

Pros:

Improved Visibility: Enhances target identification and situational awareness in low-light environments.
Hands-Free Operation: Allows shooters to maintain a proper grip on the firearm while illuminating targets.
Deterrence: A visible light can deter potential threats.
Target Identification: Having a weapon mounted light gives you the ability to positively identify your target.

Cons:

Weight and Bulk: Adds weight and bulk to the firearm, potentially affecting handling and concealability.
Battery Dependence: Requires batteries, which will deplete over time.
Safety Considerations: Must be used responsibly to avoid accidental discharges.

Upgrading your handgun can significantly enhance your shooting experience, but it's essential to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each modification. By understanding these factors, you can make informed decisions that best suit your needs and preferences, ultimately improving your handgun proficiency and performance.

Is There Such Thing as Too Many Upgrades?

While upgrading your handgun can enhance its performance and personalize it to your needs, there is a point where too many modifications can be detrimental.

The Balance Between Utility and Over-Modification

Pros:

Customization: Upgrades allow shooters to tailor their handguns to their specific needs and preferences, improving overall performance.
Enhanced Capabilities: Certain upgrades can significantly improve accuracy, recoil management, and low-light performance.
Enhanced Performance: Upgrades can hide inefficiencies or lack of shooting fundamentals.

Cons:

Complexity: Too many modifications can complicate the firearm, making it more challenging to operate under stress.
Reliability Issues: Each added component increases the potential for malfunctions or failures, particularly if the upgrades are not installed correctly.
Fundamentals Crutch: Relying on upgrades can become a crutch, potentially hindering the development of proper shooting fundamentals.
Legal Concerns: Some upgrades may not be legal in all jurisdictions.

Finding the Right Balance

It's crucial to find a balance that enhances your shooting experience without over-complicating the firearm. Here are some tips:

Prioritize Essential Upgrades: Focus on modifications that provide the most significant benefits for your specific needs, such as improved sights or a weapon-mounted light.
Test Each Upgrade: Introduce one upgrade at a time and thoroughly test it to ensure it enhances performance without introducing new issues.
Seek Professional Advice: Consult with experienced shooters or professionals to get recommendations on worthwhile upgrades.
Keep It Simple: Aim for a functional and reliable setup rather than a heavily modified one that may compromise performance.

By carefully selecting and testing upgrades, you can enhance your handgun's capabilities without falling into the trap of over-modification and/or a unreliable gun. Remember, the goal is to improve your proficiency and performance, not to create a firearm that's difficult to manage and maintain. Have an upgrade in mind? Contact us and we can order the parts for you at a great deal!

Exploratory Versus Exact Shooting

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 14:00:02 GMT

What is Exploratory Shooting and How is it Different from Exact Shooting?

Shooting skills are crucial for both self-defense and competitive scenarios. Two primary types of shooting are exploratory and exact shooting. Understanding the differences and benefits of each can significantly enhance your handgun proficiency and overall shooting ability.

Exploratory shooting involves stepping out of your comfort zone to engage targets in a dynamic and sometimes less structured manner. This type of shooting pushes you to improve your vision, speed, and reaction time by forcing you to process and shoot faster, often through drills with reduced par times. Exploratory shooting often includes moving targets, varied distances, and unpredictable scenarios, requiring quick decisions and adjustments. This type of training is essential for defensive shooting, tactical training and in order to be a top level competitor in competitions.

Exact shooting, on the other hand, is precise and in a controlled manner. It focuses on accuracy and consistency, typically in a static environment. Shooters aim for tight groupings and exact shot placement on a defined target, which is critical for CCW (Concealed Carry Weapon) proficiency, competitive shooting and when establishing the handgun fundamentals.

The Benefits of Each Type of Shooting

Exploratory Shooting:

Improves Adaptability: Helps shooters adapt to changing environments and unexpected threats.
Enhances Situational Awareness: Develops the ability to quickly assess and respond to dynamic situations.
Builds Confidence: Encourages shooters to trust their instincts and make rapid decisions.
Pushes Limits: Forces you out of your comfort zone, improving vision, speed, and reaction time by practicing under pressure.

Exact Shooting:

Increases Accuracy: Focuses on precise shot placement, essential for self-defense and competition.
Builds Consistency: Reinforces good habits and techniques through repetitive productive practice.
Enhances Control: Teaches shooters to maintain control over their firearm and shooting process by isolating on specific skills.

How to Practice Each Type of Shooting

Practicing Exploratory Shooting:

1.Dynamic Drills: Incorporate movement and varying distances in your drills.

2. Scenario Training: Simulate real-life situations where targets appear unpredictably. Used in Force on Force training.

3. Use of Cover: Practice shooting from behind cover and while moving between positions.

4. Reduced Par Times: Perform drills with shorter time limits to force faster processing and shooting.

Practicing Exact Shooting:

1. Static Range Practice: Focus on shooting at stationary targets from a set distance.

2. Slow Fire Drills: Take your time with each shot, ensuring perfect sight alignment and trigger control.

3. Grouping Exercises: Aim for tighter groupings on the target by isolating grip skills. This requires conscious focus on the grip strength being used throughout the entire drill repetition.

When to Use Exploratory Shooting Versus Exact Shooting in Your Game

Exploratory Shooting:

Self-Defense Training: Ideal for preparing for unpredictable, real-life scenarios.
Learning Tactics: Crucial for outmaneuvering an opponent in force-on-force training, where dynamic response is essential.
Competitive Shooting: Essential for sports like USPSA or others which require fast movement and target processing.

Exact Shooting:

Competitive Shooting: Essential for sports like bullseye shooting where precision matters.
Proficiency Development: Important for developing fundamental shooting skills and techniques.

Examples of Both Types of Shots in Action

Exploratory Shooting Example:

Imagine a scenario-based drill where targets appear randomly, and you must engage while moving. This simulates a real-life self-defense situation, requiring quick reactions and adaptability. Additionally, performing these drills with reduced par times forces you to think and act faster, further enhancing your skills.

Exact Shooting Example:

In a bullseye competition, the shooter aims at a stationary target, focusing on perfecting each shot's placement. This scenario emphasizes precision and control, highlighting the importance of exact shooting skills.

Both exploratory and exact shooting play crucial roles in a well-rounded shooting skill set. By incorporating both types into your training regimen, you can enhance your adaptability, accuracy, and overall handgun proficiency. Join us at Advent Training to explore dynamic shooting techniques and refine your exact and exploratory shooting skills with professional guidance. Click HERE to see a list of our course offerings.

Self-Defense versus Performance Training: Understanding the Key Differences

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 03:53:31 GMT

Why Understanding the Difference Matters!

In the world of firearms training, two primary focuses often emerge: self-defense and performance training. While both aim to improve your skills with a handgun, their objectives and methods can differ significantly. Understanding these differences can help you tailor your training to meet your specific needs and goals.

Self-Defense Training

Objective: The primary goal of self-defense training is to prepare you for real-world scenarios where you might need to protect yourself or others. This type of training emphasizes practical skills and "tactics" that can be used in high-stress situations.

Key Aspects:

Situational Awareness: Being aware of your surroundings to identify potential threats.

Concealed Carry (CCW) Techniques: Effective methods for carrying and drawing your handgun in everyday situations.

Handgun Fundamentals: Mastery of basic skills such as grip, stance, and trigger control to ensure accuracy and reliability.

Stress Management: Techniques to remain calm and make sound decisions under pressure.

Legal Considerations: Understanding the laws and regulations surrounding the use of force and concealed carry.

Performance Training

Objective: Performance training focuses on improving your marksmanship and speed, often within the context of competitive shooting or personal benchmarks. This type of training emphasizes precision, efficiency, and consistency.

Key Aspects:

Advanced Handgun Training: Techniques to enhance accuracy, speed, and control.

Red Dot Focused Training*: Utilizing red dot sights for quicker target acquisition and improved accuracy.

*Although since the MRDS is becoming more main stream you will see it in both sectors.

Shooting Timed Drills: Repetitive exercises designed to build subconscious ability and improve overall performance by pushing the individual's personal performance.

Competition Preparation: Training to meet the demands of shooting sports, including transitions and reloads.

Data-Driven Improvement: Using feedback and analytics to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

Bridging the Gap

While self-defense and performance training have distinct focuses, they are not mutually exclusive. Integrating elements from both can lead to a more comprehensive skill set.

Practical Drills: Incorporate drills that simulate real-world scenarios while emphasizing accuracy and speed.

Balanced Training Regimen: Allocate time for both situational awareness and advanced marksmanship techniques.

Continuous Learning: Stay informed about the latest developments in both self-defense strategies and performance enhancements. Remember, proficiency with your handgun is a journey, not a destination. You should always seek to better yourself, no matter the level you are at.

Conclusion

Whether you're focused on self-defense, performance training, or a combination of both, the key is to remain committed to continuous improvement. Proficiency with your handgun is a life long journey, not a destination! Regular practice, ongoing training, and a balanced approach will ensure you are prepared for any situation.

For more information on our training programs and to explore how we can help you become proficient with your handgun, visit our training offerings. Stay safe, stay proficient.

Training Versus Practice

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 17:23:15 GMT

What you need to know about training and practice

Understanding the Difference Between Training and Practice

Introduction:

How often have you heard the terms "training" and "practice" used interchangeably? I'm sure we've all been guilty of using them interchangeably either intentionally or not. While it's true that both activities are important for developing skills, there are some key differences between them, and understanding these differences can help us use our time efficiently.

The Training-Practice Distinction:

We often use the terms training and practice interchangeably, but there is a significant difference between the two.

**Training** is the process of learning how to do something correctly. It involves acquiring knowledge, receiving instruction, and understanding the principles behind a skill or task. In the context of firearm training, this may include attending classes, workshops, or receiving guidance from qualified instructors.

**Practice**, on the other hand, is the act of repeating a skill or motion correctly over and over again. It involves applying the knowledge and techniques learned during training in a repetitive manner to reinforce and improve one's abilities. For handgun owners, practice often takes place at the shooting range, where they work on marksmanship, accuracy, and proficiency.

The Importance of Both Training and Practice:

To become a proficient handgun owner, it's crucial to recognize that both training and practice play unique and essential roles in your journey.

**Training** provides the foundation for your skills. It offers you the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals, acquire proper techniques, and understand the principles of safe and responsible firearm use. Training equips you with the knowledge needed to handle your handgun correctly.

**Practice**, on the other hand, allows you to apply what you've learned in a practical setting. It reinforces 'muscle memory', refines your accuracy, and hones your ability to respond effectively under various conditions. Practice is where you develop your shooting skills through repetition and experience.

Making the Most of Training and Practice:

Now that we've distinguished between training and practice, let's explore how you can make the most of both to become a better shooter:

**1. Know When to Train:** Training is best suited for learning new skills, refining existing ones, or addressing specific challenges. Consider training when you want to improve your overall understanding of firearm safety, marksmanship techniques, or self-defense strategies. Seek out qualified instructors or training programs to guide you.

**2. The Role of Practice:** Practice complements your training by providing the opportunity to put your skills into action. After receiving proper training, head to the shooting range to practice regularly. Focus on applying what you've learned, honing your accuracy, and developing muscle memory. The range is where you refine your shooting proficiency.

**3. Effective Time Management:** As a responsible gun owner, you must use your time effectively. Understand when it's time for formal training and when you can invest hours at the range for practice. Striking a balance between the two will help you continuously improve.

Conclusion:

In the world of firearm ownership, the distinction between training and practice is crucial. Training equips you with knowledge, skills, and principles, while practice reinforces those abilities and ensures you can apply them effectively.

By understanding when to seek training and when to dedicate time to practice, you can maximize your efforts and become a safer, more proficient handgun owner. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just starting, remember that a combination of both training and practice is the key to mastering your skills and ensuring responsible gun ownership.

How Often Should You Hit the Range?

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 17:22:28 GMT

Beginner vs. Experienced Shooters

Regular trips to the range are like sharpening a tool you might need to defend yourself or your loved ones in a critical moment. But how often should you go? The answer depends on your experience level and goals. This guide will explore the optimal range frequency for both beginners and experienced shooters, ensuring you stay confident and prepared with your firearm.

Beginners: Building a Solid Foundation

For those new to handguns, frequent range visits are crucial to build a solid foundation in firearm safety and proficiency. Here's how to establish a practice routine:

Weekly Practice: Aim for at least one range visit per week, firing 50-100 rounds each session. This consistent practice allows you to master the fundamentals of grip, stance, sight picture, and trigger control. Remember, safe firearm handling should be ingrained in every action.
Dry Fire Practice: Supplement your range sessions with dry fire practice at home. This allows you to work on your draw, sight alignment, and trigger squeeze without ammunition.

Invest in Yourself:

To develop a strong foundation from the start, consider enrolling in a quality beginner handgun course at Advent Training. Our instructors will guide you through proper technique and safety protocols, ensuring you build confidence and competence.

Intermediate and Advanced Shooters: Refining Skills

With more experience under your belt, the focus shifts to refining your skills and maintaining proficiency. Here's how to optimize your range time:

Bi-Weekly to Monthly Practice: Experienced shooters can benefit from bi-weekly or monthly range sessions. Aim for 150-200 rounds focused on accuracy and speed drills to keep your skills sharp.

Challenge Yourself:

Don't get stuck in a rut! Incorporate drills that challenge you, such as shooting from different distances and positions, or using your weak hand.

Specialized Training:

Take your skills to the next level with specialized training offered by Advent Training. We provide red dot training courses to help you master red dot sights for faster target acquisition, and scenario-based self-defense training to prepare you for real-world situations.

Continuous Learning: Proficiency is a Journey, Not a Destination

Regardless of your experience level, firearm proficiency is a continuous learning process. Here are some ways to stay on the path to mastery:

Regular Assessments:

Regularly evaluate your skills through self-evaluation or feedback from instructors. Identify areas for improvement and set new goals to push yourself further.

Variety is Key:

To avoid plateaus, incorporate variety into your range sessions. Practice from different distances and positions, and don't forget to challenge yourself with weak-hand shooting.

Community Building:

Consider joining shooting communities or leagues for motivation, camaraderie, and the opportunity to learn from other experienced shooters.

Conclusion: Proficiency Matters!

The frequency of your range visits depends on your goals and commitment to Proficiency Matters . Beginners should prioritize frequent practice to build a strong foundation, while experienced shooters can benefit from focused training sessions. Regardless of your level, the key is to stay engaged, consistently assess your skills, and seek opportunities for growth. With regular practice and a dedication to learning, you can ensure you are always confident and prepared with your firearm.

Pro Tip: When hitting the range, prioritize quality over quantity. Focus on proper form and technique rather than just firing a large number of rounds.

Ready to Join the Proficiency Journey?

Contact Advent Training today to discuss our beginner handgun courses, specialized training options, and ongoing learning resources. We're here to help you develop the confidence and skills you need to be a safe and responsible gun owner. Together, let's walk the path of proficiency.

What Makes A Good Handgun Instructor

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 13:00:13 GMT

Isn't any training good training?

There are a lot of things to consider when choosing a handgun instructor. Not all instructors are created equal, and not every class is the right fit for everyone. It's an investment of your time and money so choose as you would any investment...wisely.

What are the qualities of a good handgun instructor? This is a question that many people who own handguns may ponder. There are many factors to consider when looking for an instructor that can help you use your firearm safely and effectively.

Here are four traits, listed in no particular order, to look for in a good qualified handgun instructor.

1) Experience – Make sure your instructor has plenty of experience teaching the firearm for which you are wanting to learn about. For example, if you are wanting to learn about handguns you should look for an instructor who has experience with handguns. Generally, the better instructors will focus on only one platform (i.e. Handgun, Rifle, etc.) in order to be proficient with it.

2) Credentials – Reputable instructors will have some form of certification from a respected organization. This isn't because those organizations vet instructor's personality nor ability but because they help instructors teach better than when they first arrived. Organizations such as the National Rifle Association (NRA), U.S. Concealed Carry Association (USCCA), Range Masters and many others.

3) Knowledgeable – Your instructor should be knowledgeable about the firearm for which you are wanting to learn about. They should have the answers for you and if not, should be able to point you in the right direction to get the answer.

4) Passion – Instructors should be passionate about teaching, demoing and helping all shooters achieve their personal objectives. They should also be passionate about the 2A community as they are more or less a representation of that community.

Now, you'll notice not one of the traits says "Safe". It goes without saying that ALL instructors should be safe and ensure the safety of their students throughout their classes but that is not a trait which makes a good instructor as that is a necessity in order to stay an instructor.

A good handgun instructor should also be a higher level shooter and should be able to show you each drill that is given. The instructor should be able to articulate the reasons why you are doing each step, so that you can understand the importance of following the procedures which are given. A good instructor will also be patient and attentive, making sure that you are comfortable with the material before moving on to more advanced concepts. Choosing a qualified and experienced handgun instructor is an important step in ensuring that you learn how to safely and effectively use a handgun.

In the instructor world we hear the saying "always a student" and this is somewhat a cliché in the industry but it is also true. Instructors should always be willing to learn new things despite their previous expertise or experience and go train with other instructors to improve their skillsets.

A good handgun instructor is a teacher and shows the class how to handle and fire a gun. They don't just instruct in drills but explain the why of a technique in order to have the concept resonate with students. They must be able to articulate the information so the students can understand. They will also be able to answer any questions you have and provide helpful constructive feedback. If you're serious about learning how to safely and effectively use a handgun, then find an instructor who can meet all of the above criteria.

Finding the right handgun instructor can be critical to your success in learning. Whether you are a first-time gun owner or have been shooting for years, finding the right handgun instructor is essential to ensuring that you get the most out of your training. It is important to find a good handgun instructor who can teach you the proper way to handle and shoot a gun. Make sure to do your research on the instructor prior to signing up for a course. If you cannot find any information on a specific instructor than you should reach out the them and ask questions. Ask them about their qualifications and experience. It's also good to ask around for recommendations either from students or instructors. Have you had any negative experiences with handgun instructors? Who are some good handgun instructors you have trained with? We would love to hear about them in the comments section below!

Taking Notes at a Handgun Course: What, Why and How

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 19:00:00 GMT

If you're reading this, there's a good chance that you're interested in taking a handgun course. And if that's the case, then there's also a good chance that you want to get the most out of that training. One way to do that is to take notes! In this article, we'll discuss why you should take notes during a handgun course, and how to go about doing it effectively.

So, why take notes during a handgun course? There are a few reasons. First of all, it's a lot of information to take in. A good instructor is going to cover a lot of ground in a single class, and it can be tough to remember everything. Taking notes will help you keep track of what was covered, and will give you a resource to refer back to later.

Another reason to take notes is that it allows you to process the information in a different way. When you're listening to an instructor and taking notes, you're forced to really think about what they're saying and how it applies to you. This can help you better understand and remember the material.

Finally, taking notes gives you a record of what was covered in the class. This can be valuable for a number of reasons. Maybe you want to review the material before your next class, or maybe you want to refer back to something later on down the road. Whatever the case may be, having a written record of what was covered can be very helpful.

So those are a few reasons why you should take notes during a handgun course. But how do you go about doing it effectively? Here are a few tips:

First of all, bring a notebook and pen or pencil with you to class. This may seem like an obvious one, but it's worth mentioning. You'll want to have a dedicated notebook for taking class notes, so that you can easily find them later on. I recommend a Rite in the Rain notebook and pen so you do not have to worry about weather conditions.

Second, make sure you can hear and see the instructor clearly. This will help you follow along and take accurate notes. If you're having trouble hearing or seeing the instructor, let them know so that they can adjust accordingly.

Third, focus on key points and main ideas. Don't try to write down every single thing that the instructor says verbatim - chances are, you won't be able to keep up, and it's not necessary anyway. Just focus on writing down the main points so that you can refer back to them later.

Fourth, don't be afraid to ask questions! I can't stress this one enough. If you're confused about something, or if you want clarification on a point, don't hesitate to raise your hand and ask. Not only will this help you understand the material better, but it will also show the instructor that you're engaged and interested in what they're saying.

Finally, take your time. Don't feel like you have to rush through taking notes. If you need to pause for a minute to process what was just said, or to write down a particularly important point, that's perfectly fine. The goal is to understand the material and take accurate notes - so go at whatever pace works best for you so long as it doesn't hold up the class.

Those are a few tips for taking effective notes during a handgun course. So next time you're in class, put them into practice and see how it goes! And if you have any other tips to share, be sure to leave them in the comments below. Thanks for reading!

What is Handgun Proficiency?

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 16:02:51 GMT

An often overlooked trait...

The ability to shoot a handgun proficiently is an important skill for anyone who owns or plans to own one. Handgun proficiency is not only about being able to hit a target, but also about understanding the proper techniques and having the proper mindset for using a handgun in self-defense.

In my opinion, the group who struggles the most with handgun proficiency is the concealed carrier crowd so this will mostly be focused towards them.

There are many concealed carriers out there who have never had any formal training beyond the required permit class. While taking a permit class is a great start to understanding the laws, it is not enough to make someone proficient with a handgun. In order to be a responsible and safe concealed carrier, one must take the time to learn how to shoot properly and how to use their handgun for self-defense.

So what is handgun proficiency?

There is a lot of misinformation out there about what it means to be proficient with a handgun. Some people think that you only need to be able to shoot accurately from a few feet away. Others think that you need to have extensive experience shooting in difficult and dangerous situations. The truth is, being proficient with a handgun means something different for everyone. It depends on your goals, your abilities, and sometimes depends on the type of handgun you are using.

One of the most important things to understand about proficiency is that it is not a static skill. You do not achieve proficiency and then stop learning. Rather, proficiency is something that you work towards your entire life. There are always new techniques to learn and new situations to practice for. The goal is to never stop improving your skills so that you can be the best possible concealed carrier you can be.

So, how can you work towards becoming more proficient with your handgun? You need to understand the handgun fundamentals. Once you have these basic skills down, you can start working on more advanced techniques like shooting from different positions and moving while shooting. You should also make sure to practice and train regularly so that you can keep your skills sharp. The more you practice and train, the better you will become at using your handgun for self-defense.

Practice and training are key when it comes to becoming proficient with a handgun. We'll cover the difference between the two in another post.

In addition to being able to shoot accurately, you must also understand how to use your handgun for self-defense. This includes learning proper techniques, mindset and local laws for using your handgun in a defensive situation. As a concealed carrier, you have a responsibility to yourself and to those around you to be proficient with your handgun. This means being able to shoot accurately and responsibly, and having the knowledge and skills to use your handgun properly in a self-defense situation.

If you are serious about becoming a responsible and safe concealed carrier, then you need to make sure that you are proficient with your handgun. Take the time to learn the basics, train occasionally and then practice regularly. By doing this, you will be prepared to use your handgun for self-defense in any situation. Remember, proficiency is not a static skill - it is something that you work towards your entire life. Start learning today and never stop improving your skills!

What level of proficiency do you think a concealed carrier needs? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Carrying a Handgun: Why Proficiency Matters

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 22:15:09 GMT

A lack of handgun proficiency is dangerous!

Handgun owners need to be proficient with their firearms. Not only is proficiency key to safely using your handgun, but it’s also essential for ensuring that you can effectively defend yourself and your loved ones in a self-defense situation. Here are four reasons why proficiency matters when it comes to handguns.

Safe handling - If you aren’t proficient with your handgun, you may not be able to safely handle it in an emergency situation. This could lead to tragic consequences for anyone nearby.
Accuracy - In order to hit your target without unintended casualties, you need to be proficient with your handgun. You want the bullet to hit (and stop) exactly where you want in that moment of a self defense situation.
Speed - When life or death is on the line you want to be able to quickly engage the threat before they have a chance to injure or kill you.
Consistency - Consistency and efficiency are critical in any self-defense situation. Handgun proficiency allows an individual to quickly and confidently respond to a threat, without having to think about the mechanics of their weapon, the fundamentals of shooting a handgun or how to draw it quickly.

Recently, the gun world has been rocked by a number of mass shootings. As a result, many people are calling for more restrictions on firearms ownership and access. While it's important to have conversations about how to address this issue, we cannot forget that law-abiding citizens who own guns for self-defense also need to be part of the conversation. Those gun owners need to be proficient in order to articulate many reasons why guns are needed.

We hope you’ve seen the importance of proficiency by now. It’s not only essential for safe handling of your firearm, but also for defending yourself and your loved ones in a self-defense situation. If you’re working on becoming proficient with your concealed carry, we want to help you out. Check out our website or reach out to us on social media for more information about training courses and how to get started.