Disclaimer: This is a private opinion supported by several core members of the MetroWest Tactical Group. This article aims to be a starting point and not an all-inclusive source of information.
Those who shoot come from all backgrounds and are of different ages, yet we all have two things in common: we love our guns and have been new to practical shooting once.
Many folks who are new to guns or those who have firearm experience but are new to the game ask the same questions. While I cannot cover every subject or question in one article, nor is my opinion the only one you will ever hear, I will attempt to cover the basics as I see them.
TNG (The New Guy)
Yes, each and every one of us has been the new guy at one point in our lives. MetroWest Tactical (MWT), at its core, consists of individuals who want to see as many safe shooters as we can at our events. We love the sport and we want you to be part of it. Admittedly, we do have a hidden agenda with welcoming new folks. MWT wants to grow the core team with individuals who enjoy the sport so much that they are willing to make personal contributions to MWT as Safety Officers, Course Designers, Prop Designers, Laborers, etc. We feel strongly that the MWT community gives back as much as it receives to assist individuals to become great shooters and be a part of a supportive community.
Defensive Action Introduction
So you have decided to check practical shooting out — great! With MWT, your introduction can be done in two different ways:
- Practice: We have regular practices (see practice schedule or full calendar). Practices are free and open to the public. Attendance varies, but everyone should expect to participate actively, learn new things, and have fun. All are encouraged to come, and we will get you shooting!!
- Matches: Monthly club matches are listed on the calendar and open to the public. Come and shoot for a nominal fee. You are welcome to come and watch for free, but you will likely want to jump in and participate.
The most common method of being introduced to practical shooting is through monthly practices. Some come with guns and gear; some come to watch and talk. Coming to a match with guns and gear is fine; inform the registration staff that you are new to practical shooting and will be squadded appropriately for that day.
Equipment
A comprehensive article on equipment can be found here.
- Gun: For your first practice, if you only own a single gun or are unsure if what you own will “work” —bring it. We have never turned away anyone at the beginning of their journey because they brought an 8″ Colt Python. We will work with you and your equipment. If you continue to come and play with us, we will ask that you comply with the equipment rules.
- Holster: The holster must be secure, mounted on your belt, inside or outside, behind the center line (no appendix carry holsters), and cover the trigger guard. Again, we will work with you if you don’t have one at your first practice. Provisions can be made to ensure safety while letting you participate. Continued participation will require an appropriate holster.
- Magazines/Speedloaders/Moonclip: At least three devices for your firearm are required for matches. If you do not have all three at practice, we can work to accommodate you.
- Mag Pouches: A double or two single mag pouches are needed. If you wear pants, you most likely have pockets. Many first-timers go this route before going out and buying the required gear.
- Concealment Garment: A shirt or a vest that covers the holstered gun.
- Ear and Eye Protection: Both are required to participate or watch. A hat with a brim is also strongly suggested.
- Ammunition: Matches will require 100-120 rounds. Most bring 150 rounds to be on the safe side and have rounds left to bring home. Practices vary depending on how many folks show up, but shooting about 100 is typical. Lead, FMJ, Plated, and HP are all acceptable types of ammunition. The Harvard Sportsmen’s Club can handle all forms of ammunition on its ranges other than tracer rounds. As a courtesy to other participants and to minimize wear and tear of the backstop, we ask folks to abstain from lead and hollow point ammunition at indoor practices.
Gun Handling
All events are run as “cold” ranges. If you come to an event with a loaded firearm, please inform a Safety Officer (SO) of the condition and you will be instructed where and how to safely unload your gun for the duration of the event under the supervision of a safety officer. Once you are cleared, there are only two places you can handle your gun: on your own in any designated safety area OR under the direction of an SO at the line of fire. Safety areas are marked; no ammunition is allowed in the safe areas. If you are not sure of when/where you can handle your firearm, simply leave it holstered and ask! Someone will gladly guide you so we can all have a safe and enjoyable event.
Defensive Action is designed for the use of practical equipment versus an equipment race. There are several main divisions of firearms. Most likely, any practical firearm you own will be suitable. Examples are Glock 17, S&W M&P, Sig 226, Ruger SR9, Beretta 92FS, 1911. Before you go and spend money on “the best” guns and gear, we suggest you check out a practice and a match first.