Search found 1 match

by Mike S
Mon Sep 19, 2022 12:55 am
Forum: Instructors' Corner
Topic: First Responder Training 21-23 Sept
Replies: 17
Views: 9227

Re: First Responder Training 21-23 Sept

I was in the 31 Aug - 2 Sept class. Here's a couple observations:

1. Read the equipment list. Come prepared with the correct type of holster & a magazine pouch capable of holding at least 2x spare magazines. Also, bring the correct type of flashlight as described on the packing list. ((Should be simple, but some students had to run to GT Distributors at the end of class on Day 1 because they didn't bring what was prescribed on the packing list...))

2. The nuances that aren't included on the packing list:
- Inside the Waistband holsters aren't allowed on the DPS range. You can allow your students to use IWB when you're giving the class, but you can't use IWB while on the DPS' range. I can't remember if it was stated in the instruction sheet, but shoulder holsters / cross draw holsters also aren't allowed.
- Over-the-Ear Hearing Protection isn't a requirement anymore, but is recommended. ((I guess 'phobias' of having ears covered is a thing now, so ear plugs are acceptable to use....)). Electronic ear pro is recommended to hear the range commands & instruction when breaking down into smaller cadre-led groups on the range.
- I'd recommend also bringing an extra pair of shooting glasses. Mine broke in half on Day 3, & luckily I keep a spare set in the truck.

3. The drills are optimized for 3x magazines that have a capacity of at least 10x rnds each. If your mags don't hold at least 10-rnds each, you'll want to bring extras. ((More than 3 would be a good idea anyway))

4. You'll only shoot around 400 rnds, but I'd recommend bringing a spare gun just in case your primary goes down. There were several that had minor malfunction issues with their handguns, but nothing that wasn't fixable on the line. Except the guy who brought 9mm ammo for his .40 on Day 1; another student let him use his spare handgun for the pre-qualification. ((So, do your Pre-Combat Checks before heading out on Wednesday morning & ensure you didn't grab the wrong can of ammo)).

5. If you leave to grab dinner between classroom & night fire on Thursday, check to see what time the gate closes in the afternoon. Several students were stuck outside the gate waiting for someone to let them back in.

6. Night fire did actually go to around 10:00pm on Thursday. Class resumed again on Friday at 08:00, so a hotel room in Georgetown would be advisable for Thursday night, even if you are somewhat local.

7. Bring rain gear. Training continued with light rain, & only paused during lightning storms.

8. There's a Keurig coffee pot in the back of the classroom, but you have to bring your own coffee pods.

Return to “First Responder Training 21-23 Sept”