Originally Posted by Jeff Higgins
We were privileged to host half a dozen unit commanders from various local agencies today at my club rifle range. It was a training day for them, to acquaint them with the rules and procedures of our range, so that in the future they may bring members of their teams out to shoot. We offer some capabilities unique in our area, such as a rifle range that extends to 300 yards. We have always been eager to offer our range for their use - it's a long standing tradition for us.
For the most part they did great. Very attentive, eager to learn, and excited about gaining access. The oldest one there was probably 30, if that, with all in apparently top physical condition. There were, however, a couple of them that simply exuded attitude. I guess I don't understand that - we are doing them, and their agencies, a pretty big favor. Oh well...
During our "cease fires", when the range goes "cold", we have a red light that flashes and a bell that rings, alerting everyone to that situation. It is a self governed, cooperative affair, wherein those present agree to a cease fire, and one guy assumes the role of "rangemaster", operating the bells and lights. If they are not on, the range is, by default, "hot".
I called the first cease fire, with the instructor using my actions as an example for them. When I returned from hanging my targets, I turned off the warning devices, and the range was declared "hot". All but these two put their ear protection on. When I actually sat down to begin shooting, I finally had to holler out "you are on a hot range, please put your ears on".
Next cease fire was "theirs". Same thing when they returned from hanging targets and the range went hot - same two guys just stood there with their "ears" around their necks. The instructor let them know this time...
Third cease fire was again "theirs" - they went down range to retrieve their targets. When they returned and the range once again went hot, well, same thing, same two guys. They had their backs to me, less than ten feet away. I made eye contact with the instructor, shrugged my shoulders, and he just smiled... So I sat down and lit off my .220 Swift right behind these guys.
Those of you who shoot centerfire, high intensity rifle rounds know just how loud these things are. Add to that the fact that our range is under a substantial roof, with overhead and side baffles out to almost 50 yards, and it's pretty much like shooting one indoors. It's kind of loud...
These two wasted no time in getting all indignant and pissy with me. I stood right up and told them they were an embarrassment to these other fine young men, their profession, and their departments. The instructor backed me up, simply saying "you were told twice. Maybe now you will remember. We will see when - or if - you come back, because you just failed this training...".
I really hated to see that. I doubt they learned a thing from it. The other four, however, appeared to be fine young men of whom their departments can be proud.
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