The difference between hosting an event and running an event. The dangers in hosting a social firing line/event.

One thing to keep in mind and a struggle with bringing in and training new trainers is teaching the separation of the social part of the event from the running of the line and the safety of the participants.  Assume will always make an  ass-of-u-me.   This is the danger, assumption that everything will always turn out fine and the complacency that follows.  And it is complacency the can and does cost people their lives.

When people get involved in the shooting world and helping at events, it is first and foremost because it is fun.  It is a great time to be around the sport and the people who enjoy doing it.  You meet interesting people and there is always stories and conversations about everything shooting.  Before you know it, the match is over and you are thinking of what a wonderful time you had.  How great is was to be there and to be part of the event.  So you volunteer or offer your services again.  As time goes by, it becomes more about you being at the event and having a great time being a part of it than the responsibilities you signed up.  It is easier to engage in side conversation, talk shop about your most recent purchase or new reloading data or the latest article you read on that hot new caliber.   Your head is turned, your eyes are not where they belong and your ears are not listening to anything other than the sound of your own voice.  Then BAM.  It happens. Right there next to you and under your watch.  Paint whatever picture of whatever accident you can think of and insert it here and you are responsible.  

I don't want to paint a grim picture, but this is the gremlin you battle.  When bringing on new instructors or training new range officers, this is what we focus on.  Keeping your wits and all your senses at full alert every second you are there on the firing line.  You are the last hope or chance someone might have at preventing an accident and possibly saving that person or some innocent bystander their life.

The bottom dollar.  This is the sign that gets everyone thinking I should do this or I can do this.  $!   And although I am all for more shooting range and events to enjoy, this simple sign of a dollar brings people to hosting events because they can and because they see money.  I have been to many matches over the years and decades.  I have seen both sides.  Great run events that where professionally ran and scrupulously managed for safety.  I have seen matches where the end couldn't come fast enough so the days tally can be counted and celebrated.  Shots rushed, people herded through stations like cattle and range officers where more like ticket takers at a sketchy amusement park filled with carnies.  "Step right up folks and take your shot", can you see and hear it?

Time will and does take its toll on even the best range officers, the newness and excitement can wear off.  Or you have a day where you just don't want to bother or be bothered.  You get tired, it's the same old, same old.  This is the point I promised myself many years ago that if I reach, I will close the school permanently.  Yes, I do this for a living and have been blessed to be able to do so.  But I have always done it to share my love and passion for the sport and the art of marksmanship.  And although I have to pay bills and payroll, I never really did it for the money.  When I retire, I will probably still work and share my passion and at that point probably for free to give back all the good that I have been blessed with over the decades.

Practical Tactical October 14th, 2012

So, to those who work so hard at matches and events, I always say thank you and have nothing but the most respect for those that would choose to help over shooting an event.  It takes a pretty special person to do that.  For those that are thinking in the future of joining the ranks.  Keep in mind and always be mindful as to why you are there and the responsibilities that are yours now to bear.  Keep in mind that even though your are calling shots, running targets and running stages, you are there to serve and to be the eyes and ears for those that are deaf and blind.  The line in the sand that says "not on my watch".  And above all be wary of the sirens song to draw you into the socialization and the fabric that makes up its net.  This trap is set, it is always there and an easy snare for the split second you let your guard down.  

Monetary gains are a bonus and a reward for the efforts and hard work done, earned through the hours of the kings guard standing silently, alone and always at attention. You have earned your salt, spend it well at the days end.  And for those looking in from the outside, to the gains and glory of those standing watch.  If you choose to join the ranks, leave both of these notions behind.  Look to it as an honor to serve, as a service to those around you and to the loved ones of those attending.  They are counting on your diligence for every waking moment those attendees surround you.  Do not let the social aspect draw you in or the greed of an easy dollar tempt you.  Do it for the right reasons.