In the world of martial arts, the journey to mastery is symbolized by the progression through belts, each representing a level of skill attained through years of disciplined training and dedication. Yet, in stark contrast, the realm of combat shooting often sees individuals harboring unrealistic expectations, believing that proficiency with firearms can be acquired in a matter of days.
Imagine for a moment: how many belts would one expect to earn after a weekend of training in jiu-jitsu, judo, or Muay Thai? The answer is clear—none. So why then, do some individuals anticipate that a mere weekend course in combat shooting will equip them with the skills needed to handle firearms adeptly in high-stress situations?
Let us delve into the topic of belts. In the context of martial arts, the notion of passing belts over a weekend is absurd—yet, in the world of combat shooting, some individuals expect instant results from a brief training session. How can one realistically believe that mastering the complexities of combat shooting is achievable in such a short timeframe?
Consider this analogy: if you wouldn’t expect to become proficient in your profession after a weekend crash course, why would you expect the same from combat shooting? Whether you’re an engineer, a doctor, or a technician, the mastery of any field requires time, dedication, and relentless practice.
The allure of weekend shooting courses often stems from the mistaken belief in a quick fix—a magical solution that promises instant proficiency with firearms. However, true expertise in combat shooting, much like earning martial arts belts, demands patience, discipline, and a willingness to invest significant time behind the gun.
In an ideal world, individuals would recognize that mastering combat shooting cannot be achieved in a weekend. While a weekend course may provide an introduction to the fundamentals, true proficiency requires ongoing training, repetition, and refinement of skills over time.
At the ABA Intl, we emphasize the importance of training over mere courses. Our approach is rooted in the TMM Triad, aimed at instilling a deep understanding of combat shooting principles and ensuring that our students are fully prepared to handle firearms responsibly and effectively.
Lucas, you mean I shouldn’t participate in any weekend courses? Of course not!
We offer weekend courses at ABA Intl, and I often enroll in these types of courses as well. The issue isn’t with the courses themselves, but rather the expectations one may have of them. The purpose of the course is to introduce you to something new. However, simply understanding that something new exists isn’t enough to claim that you’ve learned it. Observing a technique during a weekend won’t necessarily equip you to use it effectively in a life-threatening situation
In closing, I invite you to reflect on your journey in combat shooting—what belt are you currently at, and what steps do you need to take to advance? Remember, true mastery is a journey, not a destination.
