Discover Your S&W - Strengths and Weaknesses.

Training this weekend revealed a variety of individual strength and weaknesses. No matter young or mature aged individuals, the operation of weapons platforms can provide constant ease of actuation or a subtle but definite challenge due to our aging process that must be addressed. Here is an account of one of our most recent students:

Good morning John & John.

The range work was good and helpful. One of the revelations that presented its ugly face to me was the effects of age on me. You are both too young to understand and in prior years I was like you both and absolutely comfortable and confident with any firearm.

I have not fired a firearm in the last many months and as my skeleton (knees) have deteriorated I found the foundation for quick, accurate and confident manipulation of a hand gun, in my mind lacking. The only way to solve this issue is to practice more and learn to compensate for the deterioration of an aging body.

It may not be in issue in a self defense situation with adrenaline rushing but in a calm practice, skeletal pain is part of the problem in confident movement. It causes hesitation.

JLPFI's suggestion is to make appropriate changes in your weapons platforms that are conducive to your physical capabilities. Realize the affects of aging and meet it head on by finding a new weapon that is easier to function and operate. You might even choose to reduce the caliber size of your weapon as we all know that stopping power is SHOT placement and NOT caliber designation.

No matter what you have chosen to keep and carry thru your journey, your dry fire training and live fire training must continue more frequently to remain proficient in your safe handling skills.

Until next time, know your S&W because there can be no hesitation when the time comes.