Green
Member
Hone your skills as well
This is an instance where it doesn't matter how well or often you shoot, if you don't have experience teaching and introducing someone to the sport. Like all things, you need to research it and practice it.
I once had a math teacher that was an amazing mathematician, but none of his students could follow his lessons. The result was that an entire class was turned off of what could have been a very useful and — in other circumstances — straightforward subject. The reality? Struggling students who resented both teacher and subject.
The same is true for taking people to the range. I notice the mistakes that I made with my first guests, and how I'm getting better, quickly, with each new introduction. As I read the posts here, I thought of blunders I could have avoided, and regret that I couldn't have made some visits more enjoyable.
A good 'bedside manner' makes all the difference, sometimes.
Enjoy shooting, but don't forget that they may not be the only ones that have an opportunity to learn something new — we're all green when it comes to something. Learn to be a better teacher and friend with each visit, and we'll be able to enjoy our rights as shooters with more understanding and good company.
Green
PS:Great thread, and great site! I've just joined, and would like to say this is an excellent thread for the new and experienced shooter alike. Oh, and I'd like to compliment Pax on one of the best, most insightful posts I've seen regarding the subject. Thanks!
This is an instance where it doesn't matter how well or often you shoot, if you don't have experience teaching and introducing someone to the sport. Like all things, you need to research it and practice it.
I once had a math teacher that was an amazing mathematician, but none of his students could follow his lessons. The result was that an entire class was turned off of what could have been a very useful and — in other circumstances — straightforward subject. The reality? Struggling students who resented both teacher and subject.
The same is true for taking people to the range. I notice the mistakes that I made with my first guests, and how I'm getting better, quickly, with each new introduction. As I read the posts here, I thought of blunders I could have avoided, and regret that I couldn't have made some visits more enjoyable.
A good 'bedside manner' makes all the difference, sometimes.
Enjoy shooting, but don't forget that they may not be the only ones that have an opportunity to learn something new — we're all green when it comes to something. Learn to be a better teacher and friend with each visit, and we'll be able to enjoy our rights as shooters with more understanding and good company.
Green
PS:Great thread, and great site! I've just joined, and would like to say this is an excellent thread for the new and experienced shooter alike. Oh, and I'd like to compliment Pax on one of the best, most insightful posts I've seen regarding the subject. Thanks!
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