How do we achieve "excellence?"

In response to a recent article about the accidental discharge of a Deputy Sheriff's handgun, one commenter noted "I can't believe the number of cops who think that carrying a gun for 8 hours a day makes them an expert."

I have to agree.  Shooting is a perishable skill, and you need to not just carry your gun, but shoot it, and shoot it well.

True expertise for me is measured in one way: you are able to perform a task correctly upon demand.  Not after "warming up", not after "some practice" but at a moment's notice.

I find it frustrating that so many people who carry guns for self defense - by their own admission - don't shoot very often.  This is not a recipe for success.

Cops are not the only group that has strange ideas about what makes an "expert."  At a show last summer, a young man approached my booth.  I told him about the training we have to offer, and he responded by saying "The Army taught me everything I need to know about shooting."  Then walked off with a shrug.

I wish he had stuck around.  I spent eleven years in the Army, and I have to say with 20/20 hindsight that their firearms training, while comprehensive, does not really fit the needs of citizens who carry firearms for self-defense. 

In fact, having been issued a variety of weapons during my time in the military, I'd say that hands down their handgun training - arguably what a citizen needs the most - was by far the most lacking.

The truth is, shooting is a perishable skill.  No matter how good a shooter you are (or think you are), there is always going to be room for improvement.  We should continually strive for excellence. 

If you are getting consistent hits, try smaller targets.
Try targets at longer ranges. 
Increase your speed. 
Try shooting in low-light (80% of all defensive shootings occur in the dark). 
Try shooting with your "weak" hand. 
Try reloading or clearing stoppages with one hand, like you might have to do if wounded.
Insert dummy rounds into your magazines to simulate jams.

Excellence in gunfighting is not a destination, it's a journey.  Continue to push the envelope and strive for excellence!