This post is about something that I started doing
probably around 2015 due to some circumstances that arose and I've been
thinking lately, why haven't I shared this with you? You may or may not find it
useful.
Many of us regularly go to church and/or various
other types of meetings that may open and close with a prayer. Generally, it is
considered customary to close one's eyes during that time but consider
this...
Many of us carry a handgun regularly, including to church,
with the notion that we may actually be able to save lives in the event of an
active shooter/terrorist attack. Throughout the course of a 1 to 3 hour church
session or meeting and related classes/activities, we may find ourselves with
our eyes closed at least twice and maybe as many as 6 times or more, for
varying periods of time. If I were a shooter/terrorist, I would have probably already
checked out the routine here and would plan my attack around what I learned
during my initial recon. In my mind, that would mean attack during one of those
occasions when everyone's eyes are supposed to be closed. Myself, I always try
to sit in a position of advantage, hopefully where I can see each exit
clearly. I don't mean to be disrespectful but I do not close my eyes
during this time. I try to discreetly scan the room while everyone else's
heads are bowed and yes, I can still pretty well focus on what is being said
while watching for that telltale indicator that may help me to get a handle on
a developing situation.
You say if something happens, you can instantly
open your eyes and be 100% prepared to take on the beast? No, I'm sorry but you
can't. After your eyes have been closed much longer than a routine blink, it
takes a little time, maybe .01 of a second, maybe 2 or 3 seconds for 3 things
to happen. One, your eyes must become adjusted to the light again. The length
of time required for that to happen will depend on how long they were closed
and how bright the ambient light is. Two, your eyes need to refocus to the
distance of the threat. The third thing is you have to get your mind in the
game. If your eyes were closed and you were trying to listen and concentrate on
what was being said, it will take even the most tuned-up warrior a brief
instant to assess what is going on and which direction the threat is coming
from. That is NOT going to happen instantly!
Recruit a helper and try this...
Take a chair with you to your favorite safe
shooting spot (an organized range may not allow you to do this). Place a humanoid
shaped target on a portable target stand and go sit down in your chair. You
will need to do this from concealment. Close your eyes completely. Have your
shooting companion QUIETLY place the target at random distances between 3 and
10 yards from your position and at different angles as safety allows.
When he or she is safely behind you again, they are to loudly shout "Allahu Akbar!" (or maybe "Fire!" will suffice) but either way, that is your signal to stand quickly,
present your weapon from concealment and make a clean head shot on the
target. Using a hostage target will add some challenge. A shot timer may be
very revealing as well. Do that a few times then do it with your eyes open the whole time. You may be surprised.
#Desertscout1
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#swsa
#gunsofgab
Southwest Shooting Authority of Arizona
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