In past posts I have discussed some of the “advice” offered by individuals on outdoor television programs, internet videos, and chat rooms. So many of these self-proclaimed experts spread old wives tales, long held myths, and in many cases, outright prevarications. I have found a few people who are really experts in their fields and their advice to shooters should be heeded when contemplating personal decisions regarding firearms and firearms use. Here is a short list of some of my favorite and knowledgeable pundits.
Clint Smith
Mike Seeklander
Dave Spaulding
For advice on the use of a handgun for personal protection, I’d recommend Dave Spaulding, Mike Seeklander, and Clint Smith. All are veteran trainers with a wealth of experience in military, law enforcement, competition, and most importantly, civilian personal defense. I have found Dave Spaulding’s tactics and techniques to be cutting edge, and his teaching method very effective for students.
Patrick Sweeney
James Tarr
If you are looking for information on firearms, Pat Sweeney is one of my go to writers. Sweeney is a trained gunsmith and a good wordsmith. Formally a competitive handgunner, Sweeney knows how to test a new gun and tell his readers about the “nuts and bolts” in manner that is easily understood. Another writer, James Tarr, who has credentials that are comparable with Sweeney’s, also does excellent reviews of firearms. Both Sweeney’s and Tarr’s work can be found in Intermedia Outdoors publications and programming.
Richard Marshall, Jr.
For those of you who love trap shooting and are looking for some tips, try Richard Marshall, Jr. Marshall is one of the very best trap shooters competing in the top competitions around the United States. Marshall’s teaching is very effective and useful. Most importantly, beginning and novice shooters will understand the concepts he offers.
Todd Bender
Skeet shooters; one guy, Todd Bender. Bender is a multiple time world champion and probably one of the best skeet shooters of all time. Only the late Wayne Mays might be considered the “greatest” of all time ahead of Bender. Bender has been instructing for years with his partner John Shima, and a trip to one of his classes will really improve your game.
Gil Ash
Finally for shotgunners, I strongly recommend the short videos offered by the NSSF featuring Gil Ash of the OSP shooting school. You can find these on YouTube. Ash covers just about any topic involving the use of a shotgun. I really like his trap shooting suggestions regarding use of our eyes. Ash has dozens of videos online; watch them and I’m sure you will learn, I know I did.
Be safe and good shooting.
Colonel Smoothbore
www.guncoach.net
