I have hit a mental wall recently and am currently unsure of which way to direct my training energy and gear.
My current situation means that I will likely stay in North America, and most likely in North Alabama.Since I am not in Afghanistan anymore, and not likely to go back there again (at least not at this present moment), I have begun to rethink my initial decisions based on experiences in A-stan:
1-4X optics
The ability to reach out with an issued rifle to 500-700 meters.
The 1-4X optics was chosen because I could see further and pick out individuals with better detail, but still use the same optic for CQB purposes. Being able to quickly go from zero magnification to four power or higher is vastly underrated.
Since I am concerned with post natural disaster related issues or civil unrest, wouldn’t it be wise to readjust my training goals to match the perceived threats? I am not convinced that there is going to be long term social upheavel whether due to riots ( Trayvon Martin’s shooting comes to mind) or the problems encountered after major tornadoes (Cullman City was partially leveled in 04-11). I do not think that we are going to see a major failure of American infrastructure, at least not long term. So, how should I tailor my training to meet what I conceive to be reasonable threat?
Basically, how far is too far to practice engaging targets under these circumstances?
There is no “if crazy shit happens” training that I know.
There is plenty of good training for pistol, rifle, edged weapons and hand to hand. If you need something custom tailored like “how to fight a mob” there are instructors out there that can teach it.
Nothing, however, will beat a developed situational awareness.
other things to consider are what distance and under what circumstances you are likely to be able to defend your choice to shoot someone in court.
I would offer that your focus probably ought shift to the pistol, and if you don’t have it already work on getting your concealed carry permit if available where you live. For anyone but the GI/Marine, and perhaps a full time SWAT officer, the pistol is the primary.
If you’ve already taken care of that, it’s easy to think of what, where, and when you might actually have cause to employ a rifle stateside and tailor your training to that.
Don’t discount “fun” though. It’s the most common reason given I see for the uptick in popularity of the precision shooting. I simply don’t have time to add to my once-a-week and twice-a-month range trips that I already schedule to work on the skills I think matter. I am envious of those that can afford the time and the cost to pursue frivolity at the range.