New shooter needs training instructor

[Chris54326]

Been using firearms all my life. Typical male ego, in that "I already know how to shoot", when in fact, I do well to keep handgun shots in an 8" circle at 7 yards. Don't know what happened because I used to keep my shots at 50 feet in one ragged hole with my 6" Colt Python. Now I'm shooting a Browning High-power and a Glock 27. Not doing so well with either and can't figure out why. I live in Norman and am looking for an instructor to walk me back through the basics to get me back on track. I've already been given three names here on the forum, which I will investigate, but am open to more recommendations. The more names I get, the more possibilities I can investigate.

 

[jeffhughes]

In Norman, I'd see what Chris Andersen can do for you....

 

[Chris54326]

Thanks...............but where would I find him?

 

[Matt1911]

TDSA in Tulsa is where you need to go.

Chris Anderson is a great shooter and an awesome guy, but I don't know that he does firearms training as a side job.

 

[jeffhughes]

He trains Norman SWAT, I bet he'd train an individual.

But Matt is correct, he's not a full time instructor.

TDSA is a great suggestion if you can get to Tulsa.

I'll ask Chris tonight or tomorrow and post back if he's interested.

 

[Chris54326]

Tulsa is too far for a weekly training session................and besides, I'd get laughed out of a shooting academy! I'm a rank beginner, I'm telling you. Not a shooter like the rest of you guys.

 

[foghorn918]

You will find all skill levels (and lack of) at TDSA. Many beginners take this class. Well worth the time and a great value!

 

[drmitchgibson]

Go to TDSA

 

[Matt1911]

TDSA is perfect for beginners or pro's.
Trust us, most of us have taken their AP1 class.
It's a 2 day class so get a hotel for 1 night and you're good.

 

[JustSayWhen]

If you are in or near Stillwater head to Stillwater Armory. It is a local shop but have instructors from all walks of life to get your confidence up and take you to that next level. Message me with questions. They have instructors with great backgrounds there. Check out stillwaterarmory.com

 

[runawaygun762]

Chris54326, the fact that you admit you can use help to get better puts you light years ahead of others. Don't be worried about embarrassing yourself with a professional instructor. I am a weapons instructor for the army's Military Police school, so my student base is almost entirely new shooters, most of whom are new adults who have never touched a gun. As an instructor that works almost exclusively with novices, I take great pride in teaching the fundamentals of marksmanship and weapon handling skills, and there is no greater moment for me than when a new shooter "gets it". The ones who are struggling with qualification, who are fighting frustration and fear of not making it, those are my favorites. I love seeing a shooter hit a target at the 23, 27, or 31 meter line after struggling to hit one at the 13. Many times, you can actually see the understanding flash across their face and that is the moment that makes the shooter and coach both the happiest people on the range.

I typed that mini novel to tell you this; All professional firearms instructors feel the same way I do about that when teaching new shooters. If you check your ego at the door, watch and listen, and do your best to apply the techniques being taught, you will be a welcome student for any instructor worthy of the title.

 

[Wall]

T....D....S....A

 

[runawaygun762]

Yeah, what he said. I don't even know what that spells, but it sounds menacing.

 

[ShaneP]

The other suggestions are good, but I would go to TDSA personally.

 

[jeffhughes]

TDSA is no doubt awesome. But the guy needs some right now local help. I hope Chris can work with the guy, but if not let's try and help him land somewhere decent for the time being....

 

[Chris54326]

You guys are great to step up like this. Like I said, I used to shoot rather well.................but the time between then and now has been about 40 years!!!!! I think I've forgotten more than I knew, if you know what I mean. I'm hoping to find someone here in Norman to get me started. If I show promise, then maybe I'll try going to TDSA. I'd sure like to get back in the groove and shooting like I used to. I'm getting my concealed carry license, after giving it up many years ago, and don't want to be non-proficient when I start carrying again. I'll take any suggestions or recommendations sent my way. Ego?...........................I'm old enough to not worry too much about that!

 

[Scott Hearn]

Try Will Andrews at H&H. He knows his stuff and is reasonable. It ain't Norman, but it's worth your time for sure.

http://pistolskills.com/

 

[ShaneP]

(Edit, See Scott's post above. He beat me to it while typing on my phone.)

Don't know of anybody in the Norman area, but I've heard good things about the pistol skills classes offered by Oklahoma shooting skills. I don't have any personal experience with them, I've just heard people say that it's good instruction. Could be what you're looking for.

 

[mike cyrwus]

wilshire gun range has lessons, go up there for a couple of them. Will at H&H is also good.


tdsa mext summer

 

[dennishoddy]

Since you used to be a great shooter, and now not so good, I'm betting its a grip problem?

Any way, head the direction to advanced training. You won't be disappointed.