The Shooters World gun range in The Villages, FL, was designed with the senior citizen in mind. This is the sort of thing that makes it ideal to host Gunsite Academy’s Seasoned Citizen 150 Basic Pistol class, an off-site, three-day version of Gunsite’s longer five-day basic pistol class in Arizona.
The class in Florida began with an introduction to firearm safety and the “warrior mindset.” The instructors shared real-life examples and personal stories, making the lessons engaging and helping the students relate to the material.
“It doesn’t matter what we did in our previous life; we have slowed down a bit. It makes it less intimidating to know the class is geared toward a seasoned citizen. I don’t want to hold back a class of younger shooters because I can’t go as fast. A regular class can be intimidating if you have some limitations, but not this class.” – Anonymous participant.
Three Days Of Training
Each day began in the classroom, but quickly moved to the range, where the real confidence building began. Clearly understanding they were not working with thirty-something shooters, the instructors were able to recognize each student’s needs to bring significant skill growth. Students experienced a wide array of skills, including the Modern Technique, reloads, pivots, turns and malfunctions. The students were treated with respect and kindness and the students who struggle are never made to feel less than capable.
Some of the reasons why seniors can benefit from this kind of class are:
- Vision challenges: Seniors can learn about tools such as red-dot optics and prescription shooting glasses as well as techniques like sight-picture adjustments, which can help older eyes and improve accuracy.
- Hearing sensitivity: There is no way to recover the hearing lost during those loud rock concerts in the past. Having someone teach about hearing protection options leads to greater comfort on the range.
- Joint stiffness and reduced mobility: Recognizing that kneeling and prone positions can be impossible, instructors can guide students through exercises by shooting from standing positions.
- Fear of failure or lack of confidence: Older students may not have trained in decades or ever, and having a class tuned to help each student at their level helps instill confidence.
“It is a very structured course, and the instructors were well qualified with a wealth of knowledge. I really appreciated the stories and experiences they shared.” He went on, “The course is well designed for senior citizens of all levels of shooting experience.” - Robert Jeter, Gunsite 150 student
One student in this class struggled mightily at first and had to sit anytime he was off the shooting line due to health issues. However, when it came to performing while shooting, he dug deep and did everything he could to succeed. At first, I wasn’t sure he would make it through the course, and I don’t think he was convinced so either. Watching his progress was an incredible testament to the instructors who instinctively knew when to encourage him and guide him to work it out.” He completed the course with his certificate and the respect of everyone. More than building his shooting skills, it rebuilt his dignity.
Attend a Gunsite Class at Shooters World
For more information and to find out when the next class is scheduled, contact Gunsite Seasoned Citizen The Villages, Florida or if you are interested in another Gunsite Academy Seasoned Citizen Course, visit Gunsite Seasoned Citizen Courses. If you are around The Villages, Florida, visit Shooters World and experience their state-of-the-art shooting range. Shooters World, The Villages, FL
