TACTICAL

JOURNAL

E T T I N G B A C K
G
ADAPTIVE
NT H E R A N G E
O
SHOOTING
Techniques To Help You
Get Back Shooting Fall 2017/ Volume 21/ Issue 3

PRO TIPS
GETTING
INTO
POSITION
How To Use Stage Markers
IDPA.COM
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CONTENTS
FALL 2017
COLUMNS

8
4 GEAR CORNER
Carson Lens Cleaners
Keeping your glass clean without damaging it.
By Robert Ray

6 DIRECTOR’S LETTER
See You At The Movies!
A Message from Joyce Wilson, IDPA Executive Director.
By Joyce Wilson

8 FROM A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE

YOU Own A Gun Range?!
A great family owned range in Mississippi.
By Delia “Dede” Carter

14 WHAT’S IN YOUR RANGE BAG?

22
Ming Qian
Just cutting it down to the essentials.
By Allison Launius

16 PRO-TIPS
Getting Into Position
How to use stage markers. By Mike Seeklander

FEATURES 20 SPOTLIGHT
Paul Carsen
Master Medic. By Walt Kloeppel

22
HONORING AND HELPING VETERANS
Learning To Shoot…Again 32 ADAPTIVE SHOOTING TECHNIQUES
All about HAVA’s Learn to Shoot Again (LTSA)
Single-Handed
program for injured veterans. By Lynn La Roe
Pistol Loading Operations
Recommended steps for loading and unloading
a pistol with only one hand. By Rick Cicero

38
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
What’s In Your Booboo Bag?
Thinking beyond the few Band-Aids in your
range bag. By Bobby Baker
MATCH REPORT
28 Comp-Tac’s 2017 Republic
Of Texas IDPA Championship
DEPARTMENTS Once again proving…Everything is bigger and
better in Texas. By Steve Schiemann
40 Trophy Room
43 Match Calendar 36 2017 IDPA Virginia
Indoor Regional (VIR)
44 Parting Shot Shooting Lights out in Virginia. By Jeff Koke

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE IDPA | |

FALL 2017 TACTICAL JOURNAL 3
GEAR CORNER International Defensive Pistol Association’s

CARSON Fall 2017/ Volume 21/ Issue 3

LENS
Publisher
Joyce Wilson
EDITORIAL
Editorial Director Robert Ray
Creative Consultant Socrates Gomez

CLEANERS ADVERTISING
Advertising Coordinator Allison Launius

PRODUCTION
Printing & Distribution Royle Printing

Keeping your glass clean without damaging it.

K
The International Defensive Pistol Association’s Tactical
WORDS + PHOTO ROBERT RAY Journal welcomes submissions of press releases and
news of interest to our readers. All material is considered
unsolicited and is subject to the approval of the Publisher,
Editor, and Advisory Board. All submissions imply consent
to publish and will not be monetarily compensated or
returned.
“KEEP IT CLEAN”, I thing for your eye pro. Viewpoints expressed in International Defensive Pistol
HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT Now, I can tell you that Association’s Tactical Journal are those of their respective
authors and are not necessarily held by the publisher.
MORE THAN ONCE ON a lot of people I see on the
A RANGE. SOMETIMES range use the tail end of DISTRIBUTION SCHEDULE: Quarterly
PROJECTED MAILING DATES:
I, like a lot of guys, tend their shirt or a dirty range Feb. 1, May 1, Aug. 1, Nov. 1
to let my language get towel. You can get your CLOSING DATES FOR AD COPY:
Jan. 1, Apr. 1, Jul. 1, Oct. 1
a little…expressive, while glass clean-ish doing this ADVERTISING RATES: Contact IDPA
shooting. However, that but you run the real risk of PAYMENT TERMS: Prepayment or Net 30 Days to
approved accounts.
is not what I’m talking damaging or scratching MECHANICAL REQUIREMENTS: Advertisement copy
about today. I am talking your delicate glass. You is acceptable in digital format. Please e-mail IDPA
Headquarters at [email protected] for digital requirements.
about your glass. We are typically spend a fair bit of
carrying more and more money on these optics or Note: Ads must be the correct dimensions.
Ads should be e-mailed to [email protected].
of it out on the range glasses, you really should Shipping product samples for review, and
today. From your eye pro, consider spending a few other items that cannot be e-mailed, ship to:
IDPA Tactical Journal
to cameras to the optics dollars on a product to 2232 CR 719
on Pistol Caliber Carbines take care of them and Berryville, AR 72616

and Carry Optics guns, we ensure their longevity. NOTICE:

have glass that gets dirty Nothing I hate more than The Tactical Journal is published as a service for members
of the International Defensive Pistol Association. No
and needs to be cleaned. having a scratch right in
advertised goods or services are endorsed by the
I hate dirty glasses, the middle of my glasses. International Defensive Pistol Association. All technical
they drive me up the wall. By using a paper towel data in this publication regarding hand loading of
ammunition, or training techniques reflect the opinions
I also hate dirty lenses on or some piece of cloth
of the individuals using specific tools, products,
my camera as it degrades that is just laying around, equipment and components under specific conditions
the quality of the pics. So compact lens cleaners it almost begs for this to and circumstances not necessarily described in the
article and over which the International Defensive Pistol
I frequently clean them. in my range bag. The happen to you. Association has no control. The data and/or methods have
Lately, I have been using size of a lipstick tube, it So take a few moments not been verified by the International Defensive Pistol
products from Carson does not take up much to look at your glass and Association, its agents, officers, or employees and accepts
no responsibility for the results obtained by persons using
Optical. They have a wide space at all. It has a soft see what you might need such data. The International Defensive Pistol Association
range of “glass” products retractable brush to help to keep your gear in tip disclaims all liability for any consequential injuries or
such as binoculars, spot- remove loose dust and top shape. I am sure that damages. No advertising item is intended for sale in
those states where local restrictions may limit or prohibit
ting scopes, microscopes particles on one end. On Carson will have some- the purchase, carry, or use of certain items. Mention of
and all manner of glass. the other, it has a soft pad thing to fit your needs. a product or service in text or advertisements does not
It only makes sense that tip that is infused with a You can view all their imply endorsement or approval of that product by the
International Defensive Pistol Association.
they would also have glass dry nano-particle cleaning great products at carson.
cleaning products. formula that you can use com or at facebook.com/ The IDPA Tactical Journal welcomes submissions of press
releases and news of interest to our readers. All material
I have found their to wipe away smudges, carsonoptical.
is considered unsolicited and is subject to the approval of
products to be econom- fingerprints and grime. So, do you and your the Publisher, Editor, and Advisory Board. All submissions
ical and well made. I They also have lens cloths glass a favor and…keep imply consent to publish and will not be monetarily
compensated or returned. If you’d like to submit an article,
generally have one of their if you are just need some- it clean.
please send it to [email protected].

COPYRIGHT © 2017 INTERNATIONAL DEFENSIVE

| |
4 TACTICAL JOURNAL FALL 2017 PISTOL ASSOCIATION, INC
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DIRECTOR’S LETTER

SEE YOU
AT THE
MOVIES!
A Message
from Joyce Wilson,
IDPA Executive Director

ARE YOU READY FOR

THE 2017 IDPA NATIONAL
CHAMPIONSHIP? WE
ARE SO EXCITED ABOUT
THIS EVENT! THE THEME
of this year’s Nationals is
great movie shootouts and
I am seeing many creative
stages that will remind you
of movies we’ve all loved.
Brian Ehrler, Rick Lund and
Chad Barber have some
clever surprises in store for
all who attend.

| |
6 TACTICAL JOURNAL FALL 2017
 We are also looking forward to electron- to see made. After we learn from this pilot, staff as Administrative Assistant. Mandy
ic scoring at this match using PractiScore we will roll this out in other areas of the US, will have varied responsibilities with the
as our scoring solution. We will be using likely in the Midwest next. organization. She brings experience and
the able help of Paul Jones, AC for Eastern So that our ACs with multiple states can enthusiasm to this job, both as a manage-
PA, DE and NJ, who has scored several big be more effective, we have also created a ment resource and as a shooter. Mandy is
matches using PS as well as several other volunteer position of “State Coordinator”. the 17th woman to attain the rank of Master
people with extensive experience using An AC with multiple states may elect to in our sport. She will be traveling to many
this system. And, like last year, each bay appoint someone from that state to be the matches to represent IDPA HQ and Wilson
will host a common stage that will benefit a State Coordinator (SC). Currently, we are Combat. Please welcome her when you see
worthy charity. piloting with one SC from New Mexico and her at a match.

We are looking forward to electronic scoring at this

match using PractiScore as our scoring solution.
Earlier in the year I mentioned that 2017 plan to roll out more opportunities for this The Headquarters staff and I are wishing
would hold some very positive organi- position late this year. you a cool and productive summer and
zational changes for IDPA, and some of We have also updated the Match look forward to greeting you in Cresson in
those changes are related to our Area Administration Guide (MAG) to reflect some September!
Coordinators. A few weeks ago, in an effort new guidelines for sanctioned matches,
to streamline communications and AC including a mandatory intervention by the
consistency, we began to combine areas AC at a sanctioned match based on a spe-
of responsibility in the western US so that cific number of DQs on the same stage. By
the ACs would truly be “Area” Coordinators requiring an immediate response from the
with multiple states. The western US is our AC and Match Director, we anticipate the
Joyce Wilson, #CL087
pilot for this change. We are monitoring quality of match offerings will be enhanced. Joyce Wilson is the Executive Director
the ACs there and listening to what they like One of the most positive changes is of IDPA. Members can contact her
about it and what changes they would like the addition of Mandy Bachman to the HQ at [email protected]
FROM A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE

Author and
range owner
Dede Carter
running a stage
on her range.

| |
8 TACTICAL JOURNAL FALL 2017 IDPA.COM
 YOU
own
a gun
range?!
A great family owned range in Mississippi
WORDS DELIA “DEDE” CARTER, A28728 PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CARTER FAMILY

“YOU OWN A GUN RANGE?” IS A QUES- common place as those other businesses; 3) have grown to five pistol bays and one 100-
TION I’VE BEEN ASKED MANY TIMES at Ridge Crossing we have the added facet yard rifle bay. It’s been a family effort and
OVER THE YEARS WHEN CONVERSA- that two of our three partners are women. our roles are loosely based on individual
tions have taken a turn towards what I did Ridge Crossing Shooting Club is a family strengths and experience but interchange
when not working at my full-time job. I owned & operated range tucked away in when necessary. We are all instructors,
attribute the surprise to multiple factors, Northeast Mississippi just outside of Tupelo. additionally Nicky runs Maintenance, daugh-
1) owning a gun range is not your typical It’s a small range that we established under ter Jessica manages our website, and I am
woman’s business in comparison to the very humble circumstances in 2005 with responsible for Administrative duties.
more common retail offerings such as a one bay and a dried-up pond that served Those administrative duties cover a
shop or salon; 2) dependent on the per cap- as a second bay in dry weather. In the years broad path that has introduced me to
ita of any given area gun ranges are not as since we affiliated with IDPA in 2007, and public relations and marketing. My tactics

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE IDPA |

FALL 2017 TACTICAL JOURNAL 9 |
FROM A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE

have grown from making visits to area gun

shops with business cards and flyers to
include social media and emailing a monthly
newsletter. Every conversation, every night
out, every road trip turns into a planning
session of how best to promote our range,
what improvements are needed, discuss
what’s working and what’s not, what events Family and
can we do, how can we entice more shoot- friends are a
ers to the range and to IDPA. In addition key component
to making the
to our monthly IDPA match, this year we
range fun.
added a monthly event called Head-to-
Head Challenge that runs January to June
 Dede and family continue
to upgrade and improve the
range they built together.

for Series I and July to November for Series

II. This is Nicky’s creation designed as a The greatest benefit of owning the
bracketed double elimination challenge
with a winner and a small prize drawing range has been the treasure trove
each month. Other events we’ve added to
the calendar are an annual cookout and the
of friendships that have enriched
biggest of all will be the return of the MS
State IDPA Championship as a Tier 4 event.
our lives beyond measure. Most of
The MS State IDPA Match was a featured
annual event for us during 2008 – 2013.
those friendships are directly at-
A conversation that repeats itself is one
where we revisit the benefits we’ve gained
tributed to being IDPA members.
from being range owners. Aside from hav-
ing our playground in our backyard, after hand to get those ladies up to speed with years, which we’ve attributed to the political
years of “working for the man” and careful safe gun handling skills and boost their climate. Many have purchased a firearm that
planning we’ve gained the opportunity to confidence in themselves. they know little or nothing about and have
take early retirements and do something we I’ve met numerous women over the years either never shot it or have shot it only to
both enjoy as a couple and as individuals. who fear firearms, yet they want a be able discover they’ve made a bad choice. In my
The greatest benefit of owning the range to protect themselves and thankfully they attempt to offset that, I offer a hands-on
has been the treasure trove of friendships realize the need to be trained in the proper mini-tutorial for those who don’t have an
that have enriched our lives beyond mea- use of a firearm. If they already have a fire- idea of what they want or need in a firearm
sure. Most of those friendships are directly arm, it’s usually one belonging to a husband to help them at least make an informed
attributed to being IDPA members. or father or it’s one that has been bought purchase. These mini-tutorials benefit me
I find that word of mouth has served us for them by a well-meaning male family as well by keeping my teaching skills honed
well over the years and I receive calls from member. More often than not it doesn’t suit between classes and they give me oppor-
men and women alike in search of training them because they didn’t actively partic- tunities to stay familiar with each pistol as
opportunities for themselves and loved ipate in the purchase of their gun and it I explain and demonstrate their functions.
ones. Men call in search of training for wives is better suited to the husband or father These mini-tutorials are my way of paying
and daughters because they realize (and I making the purchase. forward and repaying in-kind the mentoring
quote) “she just won’t listen to me”. We’re Owning a gun range has made us acutely I’ve been fortunate to receive over the years
always more than happy to lend a helping aware of the rise in gun purchases in recent from so many of my IDPA friends.

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE IDPA |

FALL 2017 TACTICAL JOURNAL 11 |
FROM A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE

The Carter family range

has come a long way
from the one bay and dry
pond it started with.

Any idea of the percent of women geared towards women. The opportunity Certified Personal Trainer. My plans
IDPA members as compared to the percent has to be available in order to be experi- include continuing to help Nicky run our
of men IDPA members? While preparing enced, whether that opportunity is offered range. And my greatest joy came in March
my notes for this article I was surprised to or actively sought after. I’m not alone as when I became Granny to twins Hadley
discover the overall percent of women a woman range owner, there are several and Harlow.
IDPA members from the entire membership impressive ladies in the business. As women This year marks ten years for us with
population is in the single digits. My first range owners we are in prime positions to IDPA and we look forward to a long associa-
question was why? Then I asked myself help broaden some of those horizons by tion, after all we have another generation
what can we do to draw more women to providing opportunities and showing that to bring into the fold!
our sport? How can we educate others that the shooting world is one we can all enjoy
we are a family friendly environment? and benefit from. ABOUT THE AUTHOR
I realize as a general rule growing up 2017 has been a big year of change for Delia “Dede” Carter, A28728
female most of us experienced an upbring- me and my family. Nicky and I both retired Delia is recently retired and changing careers.
ing that exposed us to traditional female – if you can truly ever retire. In February, I She is currently a co-owner and instructor
roles, and most likely excluded opportu- left my full-time job in order to accomplish at the Ridge Crossing Shooting Club outside
of Tupelo, MS
nities to experience things not necessarily a personal goal to complete my studies as a

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WHAT’S IN YOUR RANGE BAG?

MING QIAN

M
Just cutting it down to the essentials.
WORDS ALLISON LAUNIUS, A51146 PHOTOS LEAPERS INC.
Ming Quin takes a
MING QIAN HAILS FROM MICHIGAN AND moment to get ready
IS AN UP AND COMING SHOOTER WHO IS for his next stage.
SURPRISING THE TOP LEVEL MASTERS AT
every match he competes in. After recover-
ing from a motorcycle accident, he joined
IDPA and quickly became addicted to the
shooting sports.
When Ming isn’t shooting sanctioned
matches, he is able to shoot at one of four
clubs in his area so there is always some-
where to compete. Since his motorcycle
accident, the shooting sports have become
a type of physical and mental therapy, en-
couraging him to get out and move and be
active. After joining, he became classified
as a Sharpshooter and then a few months
after that, shot his first sanctioned match at
MI State.
In preparation for his first Smith &
Wesson Indoor Nationals, he prepared all
winter with dry fire and going over the
basics. All of his hard work paid off and
he was bumped to Expert. Then just a few
months later, he was bumped to Master at
the 2015 Great Lakes Regional. All in all,
it took him 14 months to achieve his first
milestone; Master class. He says “...Which
skill does not have a ceiling? It then took
me another 14 months to be proficient
and somewhat competitive with big buys.

I pack light
and don’t tend
to bring all
my cleaning
equipment
and food
with me.”
| |
14 TACTICAL JOURNAL FALL 2017 IDPA.COM
 IN THE BAG
1. UTG All-In-One range bag with inner and
outer bag
2. Magazines 3
3. Rudy Project Synform glasses as my EDC
glasses and a Rydon set with multiple clear/
colored lenses as backup in case shooting
indoor/darkness/rain
4. MSA Sordin Ear Protection 2
5. Primary gun-Glock 34 Gen3
Secondary gun-Glock 34 Gen3,
100% clone from the primary gun
6. Pocket Pro Timer
7. Hand Warmers
8. Hand drying spray. Less messy than lotion
or other liquid type.
9. Magazine Reloader
10. Surefire ear plug to double it up.
The quieter, the faster.
4

5
1 10

9 8
6

But again, it’s always about competing

against yourself. Match environment can
be intimidating sometimes and we hear
complaints all the time. However, this is the
sport everyone should be relaxed and enjoy
themselves. Simply obey the rules, pull the
trigger safely, and be happy.”
Ming however doesn’t spend too much
time on gear and equipment. Ming who
says he is “a strong believer in skill over
equipment” shows in what he carries on the
range. His minimalistic approach just proves
that you don’t need everything under
the sun to compete at a high level. Ming
mentions “The contents in my range bag…
I pack light and don’t tend to bring all my
cleaning equipment and food with me.”
Thank you to Ming for allowing us to
poke around at the gear and your mindset
on what makes you a Master level shooter.
Things I found very useful for myself, hand
drying spray. Less messy than lotion or
other liquid type. The other item was hand
warmers. Something people from north
can appreciate even during summer time.
Mornings can get bit chilly.
Until next time, keep shooting straight
and if you have a bag that you would like
to share please email me at allison@idpa.
com.

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE IDPA

PRO TIPS
Banner edges or
stage props can
also be used as
stage markers.

GETTING INTO
POSITION
How to use stage markers
to improve your match.

O
WORDS MICHAEL SEEKLANDER, A31187 PHOTOS YAMIL SUED

ONE QUESTION I GET MORE OFTEN question is, does shooting speed (their walk through a stage you will find that as
THAN MOST IS HOW TO BREAK STAGES ability to shoot the gun fast) in itself give you enter shooting positions with walls or
DOWN. OFTEN TIMES, SHOOTERS WANT this kind of advantage? Generally no, they other vision barriers blocking your view,
me to do a video on the concept of break- are gaining time elsewhere, and I would the first target you will see as you actually
ing down a stage to shoot it properly in a garner a bet that it is during the move- step into the location where you will shoot
match. This concept while simple in theory, ments on the stage they shoot rather than from will appear in a specific location in
is often difficult to teach and even harder the speed with which they pull the trigger. your visual field (height). The sooner you
to show on video. So in this article I will Enter stop and stage markers! You might can bring the gun to bear on this target,
stick to a principled approach to breaking be asking, “What the heck are those!” The the faster you can shoot it. For this reason,
stages down and give some concrete and simple answer is that there are spots we when moving into the shooting location, if
usable tips on how to approach planning pre-locate on a stage that help us get our there is a spot on the wall or vision barrier
to shoot a stage. At the end of this article I body and gun in the right position when that I can align the gun with, I know when
will give you a flowchart to follow for each moving to a spot we are going to shoot that target comes into view that the gun
stage you shoot in a match, but before I do from. Let me explain in more detail: will be pointed toward the target area, at
I want to talk to you about stop markers generally the right height. When entering a
and stage markers. Have you ever watched Stage Markers shooting position, I extend the gun before I
a top level shooter run and gun through Stage markers are spots on the stage that get stopped, and because of this, all I have
a stage and wonder how they did it three I use to help me align the gun faster on the left to do is find the target with my eyes,
seconds faster than everyone else? The first target in a shooting array. When you do some quick centering of the gun on the

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16 TACTICAL JOURNAL FALL 2017 IDPA.COM
aiming point, and begin firing. Conversely Other General Stage Breakdown Tips cost them much more time than just doing
a shooter with less experience might have The following are some things that you a reload in a logical pause area.
to extend their gun, find the target, and will want to pay attention to in your stage Be careful watching shooters before
then start their centering process where I breakdown/planning process: you. Good shooters make hard stuff look
already have all that done, giving me signif- Stay away from new things! Stick to easy. Bad shooters make easy stuff look
icant time advantages. skills you know you have and can perform hard. Either way, those images can affect
on demand under stress. The only time you your self-image and hurt your performance
Stop Markers might want to stick your neck out like that on the stage. I strongly recommend that
Similar to stage markers, stop markers are is when a title is on the line and you desire you do NOT look at the shooters before
spots on the ground that help me make to “go for it”. you when you are about to shoot. Spend
sure that I stop in the exact spot I need to Plan reloads with some margin of error. that time facing away and visualizing
in order to see, and shoot at the targets in I have seen really good shooters trash instead.
that particular array at that location. If I fail stages because they planned no reload and Know the shooting order. This seems so
to find and step on a specific stop marker, decided to shoot to empty and had a mal- simple, but I have seen (and experienced
I risk having to adjust my feet to shoot a function or miss on the stage that messed this myself) many shooters perform poorly
target in an array where there are multiple up their plan. The time they spent fixing the on a stage because they did not pay atten-
targets with a big swing involved. problem, and then trying to finish the stage tion to the shooting order and got caught

The sooner you can bring the gun to bear

on this target, the faster you can shoot it.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michael Seeklander, A31187
Currently Mike Seeklander is owner of
Shooting-Performance LLC (www.shoot-
ing-performance.com), a full service training
company and the American Warrior Society
(www.americanwarriorsociety.com). Mike
is also the co-host of The Best Defense and
Rapid Fire featured on the Outdoor Channel.

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE IDPA |

FALL 2017 TACTICAL JOURNAL 17 |
by surprise. Make sure you are prepared to company will want you speaking to other Check your gun and gear regularly during a
shoot well before your turn. shooters about their product or services, match. Keep your glasses clean, magazines
Focus on the match. If you shoot match- but keep these conversations to a minimum clean and prepared, etc.
es for social reasons, that is cool with me, until after you have finished the stage. Stage Breakdown Flowchart. This has
but I doubt you would be reading this Maintain your gear. I “work” matches, been requested by several people, and may
article if you did not have a strong desire to rather than shoot them. This means that be of use to the new shooter. This flowchart
win. Focus on shooting rather than social- I am constantly “working” to prepare will show you the process I go through
izing at matches, within reason. Obviously my gear and myself for the next stage, to break down and stage in my planning
if you are sponsored by a company, that or document the results of the last one. process:

1
Recon The Stage
4Day before
4Watch the previous shooters
4Get the timing on the props
2 3
Walkthrough (listen for)
4Round count
4Targets
4Restrictions
On Stage Recon
(walk the stage)
4Memorize target arrays
4Locate Danger targets
4Watch for faster ways to 4Find hidden or
shoot the stage double viewable targets
4Find Stop Markers

4 5 6
4Find Stage Markers

Finalize Recon Finalize Plan Begin Rehearsal

4Verify my plan 4Most efficient (time) 4Actively Visualize
(compare to others) 4Least risk (points) 4Start to finish
4Watch first shooters 4Maximize MY skills 4Correct speed
(unless I am)
4Each target array
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7 8 9
exactly as it appears
questionable angles (180!)

Finalize Rehearsal Final Preparation Execute The Plan

4Only when I can run 4Equipment check 4Load process (consistency)
the stage perfectly 4Focus Breath 4Finale mental rehearsal
in my mind 4Performance Statement 4Shoot!

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18 TACTICAL JOURNAL FALL 2017 IDPA.COM
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FALL 2017 TACTICAL JOURNAL 19 |
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

PAUL
CARSEN
Master Medic
WORDS + PHOTOS WALT KLOEPPEL, A56663

Major Paul
Carsen (left)

I
while deployed
in Afghanistan.

IF YOU MET PAUL CARSEN, 43, ON THE “I would probably say when I was 7 or
STREET, YOUR FIRST IMPRESSION WOULD 8 years old my dad started me shooting.
BE WHAT A NICE GUY. A FRIENDLY SMILE By the time I was 14, he built a pretty nice
and quick hand shake tells you that first range on our property. We could shoot any-
impression was right. time we wanted. I sure do miss those times
You may also sum up his 5’ 7 ½”, 158 lbs. and that range,” said Paul.
as just another nice guy who’s probably a Like many young men of Paul’s gener-
computer nerd or something along that line. ation, he really wasn’t sure of his next step
But you’d be wrong … because Paul saves out of high school until he enlisted in the
lives, military lives. Paul is also known as Mississippi Army National Guard at 18 where
Major Carsen, an Army Physician Assistant he spent the next 10 years in the infantry. Paul’s next step was to join the Military
in the U.S. Army Medical Specialist Corps. During that time, he used his military ben- Physician Assistant Program offered by
Paul can’t really remember when he first efits to fund his college tuition to earn his the Army. It required him to go active duty
started shooting guns … let’s just say forev- undergraduate degree at Mississippi Gulf for two years. Upon finishing, he was com-
er. Paul’s dad, John Carsen, introduced him Coast Community College. missioned as a physician assistant and an
to firearms and taught him the fundamen- Paul says his interest in going into the Army officer. Paul is in a medical unit in the
tals. They did a little hunting, but mostly medical field was born out of the fact that Army Reserve at present, but most of his
target shooting, and mostly pistols. his mother was a nurse. Then one day on his 24 years in uniform have been spent in
Growing up in Ocean Springs, MS, Paul way home from a Guard drill, he came upon combat arms units.
enjoyed a boy’s dream for romping. A hop, a bad traffic accident on the interstate. “I deployed to Iraq for a year with a
skip and jump, he was splashing in the Gulf. “Several of us from our unit stopped to Brigade Combat Team and deployed to
Out the back door, he was in his jon boat assist. One of those was a physician. After Afghanistan for six months with Army
chasing gar as long as his leg. But shooting watching him administer help to those crit- Special Forces,” said Paul.
guns, well, that was on top of his list of fun ically injured … it really opened my eyes. I While being deployed, Paul’s skills as a
stuff to do. thought hey, this is really what I want to do.” physician assistant in a battalion aid station

| |
20 TACTICAL JOURNAL FALL 2017 IDPA.COM
was essential to his fellow soldiers, caring Paul mixes dry fire at home
from the simplest injuries to stabilizing trau- as well as live fire drills at
matic wounds from IEDs and gun shots. It his local range when he
can make the time.
was during these times in a combat environ-
ment that Paul earned his Combat Medical
Badge, as well as a Bronze Star for meritori-
ous service in a combat zone.
In fact, Paul has earned quite a few
badges, ribbons and commendations
during his 24 years of service, including the
Flight Surgeon Badge … and oh yeah,
he’s Airborne.
Paul’s ability to deal with stressful situ-
ations and remain cool as a cucumber has “After watching him admin-
worked as well in his competitive shooting
as it has in his profession. His first IDPA ister help to those critically
competition was in 2012. He applied himself
and rose fast to the ranks of CCP, SSP and injured … it really opened my
BUG Master. He holds ESP and CDP Expert
as well.
eyes. I thought hey, this is
“I had taken a few classes, one from
Larry Vickers that was great, and I wanted
really what I want to do.”
to test my skills and become more profi-
cient with my carry pistol and gear.
I thought I was a good shooter - that is Worlds and Nationals like that. But just this sanctioned matches where I didn’t feel like
until that first IDPA match. Then I realized year I’m trying a vest and an OWB holster; I did well and asked myself why I was wast-
I still had a lot to learn and improve upon,” my friends say I’ve gone full gamer. ing my time doing this,” said Paul. “Then I
said Paul. “As far as mentors, we have so many asked myself, was I a better shooter then
really great shooters here in Middle when I started? The answer was of course
Practice Techniques Tennessee. I’ve shot IDPA matches all over yes. Don’t lose sight of the big picture. Keep
“I try to analyze my practice sessions and the country, and if you can do well at the your faith and never give up, God will take
matches. As with most things in life, IDPA Tier 1 matches around Nashville, you can do you places you have never imagined.”
is mainly a mental exercise. To improve it well anywhere. We usually have up to 50 Paul currently works in a Middle
takes discipline. Nobody wants to do dry shooters with 6 or 7 Masters shooting the Tennessee Emergency Room. He is humble
fire after working all day but we all know bimonthly Tennessee Action Pistol IDPA about his service, but we all know that those
how important dry fire is to success. Also, matches,” said Paul. who have served in our military deserve our
I find it helpful to completely change my thanks and appre-
routine from time to time, in both live and Goals/Past and Present ciation, as well as
dry fire. Sometimes it can seem we are just “My most memorable win would have to be all first responders
going through the motions in our practice when my girlfriend and I took a vacation - whether police-
routine, so I like to change it up. Dry fire can in New Hampshire and I shot in the Ruger men, firemen or
be mundane, so it helps to liven things up. “Live Free or Die” state championship paramedics.
I set up a stage in my house and run where I got bumped to Master in SSP. It “When I got
through it dry fire. Something I’ve been was a completely unexpected win as I did out of high school,
doing lately is starting and ending all my not do well in one stage. You shoot a bad I never dreamed
live fire sessions with doing the 50 round stage and think it’s all over but you never I’d be an officer
Dot Torture drill.” know. It was also some beautiful country and have a college
to see in October. We went to the White degree, but you
Gear Mountains afterwards and then to the just never know,”
“My first pistols were revolvers. I purchased coast of Maine … quite the adventure all said Paul. Paul gets ready to
my first semi auto in 1997. It was an HK USP around,” reflected Paul. You just never run a stage at the
40, the quality and reliability impressed me. “I’m currently a three pistol Master, I know. 2016 Nationals.
So much so, that over the years I’ve had/ would like to make five pistol Master. That’s
have other brands, but Heckler and Koch is farther than I ever imagined I could go.”
my go-to pistol. The reliability and quality ABOUT THE AUTHOR
speak for its self with HK, but the reliability Advice to Walt Kloeppel, A56663
is what really matters. I have a VP9 with Upcoming Shooters Walt Kloeppel is an Army Veteran and re-
tired as a writer/editor from the U.S. Army
over 20,000 rounds through it without a “Never give up. You will hit plateaus in your
Recruiting Command in 2010 after 36
single malfunction. I use various holsters, shooting and matches. Keep trying and years combined Army/Civil Service time.
mainly Blade Tech and Comp Tac. For years keep shooting. Shoot as many matches as A former metallic silhouette/bullseye
I shot IDPA with an IWB holster and a T you can. If your club lets you, shoot two shooter, he joined the IDPA ranks in 2013.
He resides with his wife in Nashville, TN.
shirt for a concealment garment. I shot the divisions at Tier 1 matches. I shot a run of

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE IDPA |

FALL 2017 TACTICAL JOURNAL 21 |
HONORING AND HELPING VETERANS

LEARNING TO
SHOOT…AGAIN
All about HAVA’s Learn to Shoot Again (LTSA) program for injured veterans
WORDS LYNN LA ROE, A823596

LTSA enjoys enthusiastic help

from the shooting community.

IN AUGUST 2010, RICK CICERO LOST when I finally came to the realization that I themselves injured veterans, which
HIS RIGHT ARM AND LEG FROM INJU- had to learn to shoot again using different later resulted in an invitation to shoot the
RIES SUSTAINED IN AFGHANISTAN. SIX techniques to suit my abilities.” Rockcastle Pro Am. The surprising success
months later, after learning to walk again, The latest technology, including the Sig of that day for Rick and fellow wounded
a trip to the range with his Dad rekindled Brace, was also instrumental in honing veterans, Sharod Edwards and Carl Moore
Rick’s love of shooting. Both he and his Rick’s skills. Each new success built on was the impetus for what is now the Learn
Dad have been firearms instructors for 20 his previous successes. Rick was already to Shoot Again (LTSA) program.
and 40-plus years, respectively. Over the organizing skydiving events and teaching Immediately following SHOT Show 2016,
next several years, via trial and error and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to wounded veterans, but Rick assembled a team of combat veterans,
with guidance from other shooting pro- now Rick really began fostering relation- most of whom sustained and recovered
fessionals in the military and police, Rick ships within the veteran community and from major injuries including paralysis, loss
developed new shooting techniques to the firearms industry in earnest. He attend- of limbs, and spinal injuries that would have
work within his physical “limitations.” Rick ed an event at the Wyoming Antelope Club sidelined most. With the support of the
says, “I was my own worst student. I knew in Pinellas Park, FL which led to his involve- NRA, HAVA and the Hernando Sportsman’s
what a proper stance and all the fundamen- ment with Honored American Veterans Club in Weeki Wachee, FL, Rick ensured
tals should look like, yet every time I found Afield (HAVA) in supporting their Family that the entire team became certified
myself shooting well, I would look down Day activities. This coordination created as- in pistol, rifle and shotgun instruction.
and see that my stance and grip were not sociations with other accomplished shoot- Additionally, Sig Sauer Academy has been
what would traditionally be correct. That’s ers, Trevor Baucom and Chris Fleming, instrumental in advancing the skills of the

| |
22 TACTICAL JOURNAL FALL 2017 IDPA.COM
 Getting vets
back out on
the range LTSA instructors by offering an advanced
drives Rick. pistol instructor course last September
and an advanced carbine instructor course
in June. The primary instructor for these
courses was Harry Bologna (US Navy, ret.),
a fellow combat injured veteran and LTSA
teammate. One of the main focuses of
LTSA is not only to perform, but to perform
to the highest standards of the able-bodied
shooter without any special considerations
and in all environments.

LTSA is giving
the folks they
serve a pur-
pose to get up
and get out of
the house, or
as Rick likes to
say, “To realize
that life isn’t
over; it’s just
different.”
LTSA began teaching monthly one-day
classes in Florida and, over the past year
and a half, has traveled the country to
San Antonio, Texas; San Diego, California;
Having lived it, Rick Nashville, Tennessee; Park City, Kentucky;
knows what it takes Gerrardstown, West Virginia; Salem,
to adapt to a different Connecticut; Moyock, North Carolina;
way of shooting. Rockville, MD, and Fort Benning, Georgia,
supporting HAVA events and conducting
two to three-day classes to return the vet-
eran community to skill and confidence on
the range. In addition to providing adaptive
pistol, rifle, and shotgun instruction, LTSA
also teaches the effective use of braced
firearms.
The positive feedback within the veteran
community and firearms industry has been
nothing short of amazing. LTSA is giving
the folks they serve a purpose to get up
and get out of the house, or as Rick likes to
say, “To realize that life isn’t over; it’s just
different.” It is providing them an opportu-
nity to experience camaraderie with their
Brothers and Sisters in arms that had either
gotten lost or forgotten along the way. It
has inspired veterans to ask for more train-

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE IDPA |

FALL 2017 TACTICAL JOURNAL 23 |
HONORING AND HELPING VETERANS

LTSA is proud
to be able to
help our vets.

| |
24 TACTICAL JOURNAL FALL 2017 IDPA.COM
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ing and additional avenues to sharpen their

skills and to take it to the next level.
This past February, the LTSA instructor
team and some of their students were
invited to shoot the 2017 Smith & Wesson
Indoor National Championship. LTSA TRITIUM + FIBER-OPTIC XTREME
instructors Rick, Sharod and Chris shot PROFESSIONAL HANDGUN SIGHTS
on Wednesday. On Saturday, they spent a
day at the Academi facility in Salem, CT,
conducting a training session for a handful
of injured veterans, exposing them to IDPA
and marksmanship fundamentals for those
individuals to shoot an abbreviated version
of the IDPA course on Sunday. There were
some definite learning curves involved, not
only for the shooters, but for the Safety
Officers, as they had to determine how to
balance the realistic capabilities of shooters
in wheelchairs and those wearing prosthet-

CARRY YOUR SIDEARM

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themselves and everyone around them. In

OUT OF THE DARK AGES.

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OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE IDPA |

FALL 2017 TACTICAL JOURNAL 25 |
HONORING AND HELPING VETERANS
We hope you
will consider
Nationals, many of LTSA’s instructors have volunteering at
a HAVA event.
begun competing within their local areas
and creating more opportunities for other
veterans as well. LTSA sent a team of six
instructors and two prior students to Sig
Sauer Academy for the Aiming for Zero
charity event in early May. The “Cripple
Crew,” as they sometimes jokingly refer
to themselves because they truly feel
comfortable with who they are, absolutely
made their mark on the event. Frank Koo,
a competitor that day, happened to end up
on the same team with the Crew. Following
the competition, he said, “This morning I
registered at the Aiming for Zero match at
Sig Sauer Academy with my buddies Todd
and Matt. I was focused on my perfor-
mance and my match, but upon seeing our
squad’s first couple of veteran shooters
and how they shot so well while dealing
It is providing them an opportu-
with their adversities, I was humbled and
the day was no longer about me. I am so nity to experience camaraderie
honored to have spent the day with these
awesome squad mates and have them as with their Brothers and Sisters in
my new friends.”
Two weeks later, using their experience arms that had either gotten lost
or forgotten along the way.
from the Aiming for Zero event, LTSA
worked with 15 veterans at the Dade City
Rod and Gun Club in Dade City, FL, im-
proving their skills with reloads, drawing
from the holster, effective use of cover,
movement to and from positions as well
as movement while shooting. A similar
class was held at the end of June; the goal
being to prepare students to complete an
IDPA Classifier in September and then to
compete in the first Florida-based Aiming
for Zero event on Veteran’s Day weekend at
the Manatee Gun & Archery Club in Myakka
City, FL.
This event will be unique in that each
team will be led and coached by an accom-
plished professional shooter as well as an
LTSA instructor. It will provide an opportu-
nity for LTSA students to draw from the ca-
maraderie within the shooting community
and facilitate involvement from non-injured
veterans to come out and compete with
some of the best shooters in the industry.

“Our mission for HAVA has always been

to raise awareness and assist disabled
Veterans with their healing process and
to help rebuild confidence in the future
through active participation in guided “I’m able to volunteer and give back to cannot wait to see what the future holds!
hunts and shooting events,” said Tom other veterans. Seeing the light in veter- For more information on LTSA, Rick can
Taylor, HAVA Chairman. “In leading HAVA ans’ eyes when they realize they can shoot be reached at richard_cicero@bellsouth.
for 10 years and touching well over 10,000 when they didn’t think it was possible is an net.
wounded Veterans with our programs, I can amazing feeling and something I’m proud
honestly say Rick and the LTSA team has to be a part of,” states Dennis “Lunchbox” ABOUT THE AUTHOR
found a way to take healing and confidence Bechtel when asked what it means to him Lynn La Roe, A823596
to a higher level.” to be a part of HAVA and the LTSA team. I began shooting muzzleloaders in 2007 as a
homeschool mom participating in primitive re-
LTSA has grown from a small one-on- As LTSA has grown, they’ve gained more enactments with my children, transitioning to
one entity among fellow veterans to a and more support, the most recent being modern firearms along the way. I am the better
nationwide resource to assist not only our sponsorship from the Yellow Ribbon Fund (oops, I mean other) half of Rick Cicero and
injured veteran population but also our which will enhance LTSA’s access to events I’m the only female, non-veteran instructor on
the LTSA team. Someone needs to keep these
idle veterans to return to the camaraderie, and resources to spread the word and train
guys in line! It is a true joy to travel the country
challenge and excitement of one of the even more veterans in competitive shoot- in our RV meeting wonderful folks and hitting
best aspects of being a servicemember. ing sports. This is just the beginning. We the range regularly.

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE IDPA |

FALL 2017 TACTICAL JOURNAL 27 |
 O
MATCH REVIEW

COMP-TAC’S 2017 REPUBLIC OF TEXAS

IDPA
CHAMPIONSHIP
Once again proving…Everything is bigger
and better in Texas. WORDS & PHOTOS STEVE SCHIEMANN, A997361

| |
28 TACTICAL JOURNAL FALL 2017 IDPA.COM
O
Wilson Combat
shooter and
ON SUNDAY, MAY 28TH, THE COLLIN CDP Division
COUNTY IDPA CLUB HOSTED COMP- Champion Austin
TAC’S 2017 REPUBLIC OF TEXAS IDPA Proulx crushing
a stage.
Championship Shooters enjoyed 12 interest-
ing stages with scenarios that tested their
self-defense skills to the hilt. Drop-turners,
swingers and surprise targets abounded
along with a plethora of paper targets and
steel. This Tier 4 match, held at the famous
Triple C Tactical Range in Cresson, TX,
consisted of 12 stages, chrono/equipment
check, and a minimum of 210 rounds. Match
Director Cody Ray (A03452) did a great job CONGRATULATIONS
pulling everything together for an outstand-
ing and well run match.
Six shooters shot in the new provisional
TO THE CHAMPIONS
PCC division and had a great time with no Division Champion Compact Carry Pistol4Daniel Thompson
issues. Division Champion Stock Service Pistol4Christopher Keller
The weather cooperated on the prima- Division Champion Enhanced Service Pistol4Gregory Martin
ry match day (Sunday), with clouds and Division Champion Custom Defensive Pistol4Austin Proulx
wind keeping the temperature at a very
comfortable level. The same could not be
Division Champion Revolver4Jack Davis
said for the weather on Saturday when the Division Champion Pistol Caliber Carbine4Haneesh Bagga
match staff and other shooters totaling five
squads with fifteen shooters each endured the best and plan for the worst.” Dealing Speaking of self-defensive shooting sce-
high humidity and temperatures. That is the with adverse conditions/bad weather is part narios…one stage was based on an active-
challenge of IDPA and defensive shooting. of a self-defense mindset and why we shoot shooter-in-the-office situation. Here is the
Defensive shooting teaches us to “hope for sanctioned matches rain or shine. description: “As you are working your new

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE IDPA |

FALL 2017 TACTICAL JOURNAL 29 |
MATCH REVIEW

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job at the newly moved HQ of a national this one was keeping track of which targets sisted of 11 staff members doing double-du-
company, displaced and very disappointed still needed hits and of course avoiding the ty. By that I mean in addition to their normal
workers from the former location come to no-shoots. It was a good idea to spend as SO or staff duties, they were tagged to call
make trouble for you and your cube mates. much time as possible thinking about the 911, drive the emergency vehicle, provide
Follow the evacuation plan, the Texas way!” shooting order. medical response, direct traffic or provide
The Texas way includes shooting through Another real-world stage involved shoot- documentation. Thankfully, due to great
a simulated window (port), non-threats, a ing your way out of your hotel. ”Bad guys stage design and IDPA’s safety rules there

Defensive shooting teaches us to “hope

for the best and plan for the worst.”
vision barrier and not one but eight threat take over a floor of your hotel. Make your were no injuries during the match.
targets. Personally, I wish my place of work way to safety.” After an initial 25-yard threat Shooters came from all over the country
allowed concealed carry-but that’s a whole engagement, you proceeded down the from as far away as Pennsylvania, Florida
different topic. “hallway”, with threats and/or non-threats and California to attend Comp-Tac’s TX
Part of preparing for self-defense visible as you moved between walls, open State Championship. There was even a team
includes training and competing in stan- areas and vision barriers. Some targets were from Italy.
dard stages that test basic marksmanship engaged from cover positions, some on the I look forward to shooting next year’s
and gun handling. There were two such move. At the end of the hallway or before, Republic of Texas IDPA match. Its repu-
stages and I’ll describe the first one. It was makeup shots were legal, if needed, on the tation continues to grow as one of “the”
composed of three arrays divided by walls first target at the end of the hallway. matches to attend.
with six threats and three non-threats in Stage designers Bora Angel, Cody Ray,
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
each array with an unlimited round count. Gabriel Davis, and Arthur Turner did a great
Steve Schiemann, A997361
Shooting distances were from four to ten job on their stages making the match both Steve has been an IDPA member since Nov
yards out- but here’s the kicker… head shots challenging and enjoyable for all 247 par- 2014. He enjoys practicing and shooting
were required on all targets in tactical pri- ticipants. Collin County IDPA’s Chief Safety matches, and since Nationals last year in
ority which in this case was near to far as all Officer, C.J. Pruszynski , organized the Cresson, TX, he has also shot the occasional
match with a camera.
shots were in the open. The hardest part of Emergency Response Team. This team con-
 T
ADAPTIVE
GUNSMITHING
SHOOTING TECHNIQUES

SIN D G L E
A N D E
HPISTOL LOADING OPERATIONS
s fo r l o ading
o m m e n d e ds t e p
h o n l y o n e hand.
Re c a p istol wi t
l o a d i n g
and un P HOT O S LY NN LA
ROE

RO, A444645
ICE
RICK C
WORDS

ro The techniques in
Rick Cice
Author Ricks article benefit
a wide range of
adaptive shooters.

| |
32 TACTICAL JOURNAL FALL 2017 IDPA.COM
T
THE LOSS OF MY RIGHT ARM AND LEG
REQUIRES ME TO PERFORM CERTAIN
OPERATIONS SINGLE-HANDEDLY UNDER
certain circumstances. You may find it
necessary to do the same at some point.
Learning to perform such operations will
ensure that you are never out of the fight.
Following are the recommended steps
for single-handed loading operations of a
semi-automatic pistol.

One
With an empty pistol, slide forward, secure 2a
the pistol in the holster. If this is required on
the support side, use of a pocket or the belt
line may be a practical option.

2b

2c

2d

Two
Insert a fully loaded magazine, using the
index finger to reference the magazine well,
insert the magazine, and verify it is firmly
secured.

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE IDPA | |

FALL 2017 TACTICAL JOURNAL 33
 ADAPTIVE SHOOTING TECHNIQUES

Three
Grasping the pistol with a full grip, ensuring
to index the trigger finger draw the pistol.
Point the muzzle in a safe direction while
catching the rear sight or edge of the ejec-
tion port on a stiff surface (i.e. the edge of
the holster, corner of a pocket, or heel of a
boot) and manipulate the slide, chambering
a round.

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34 TACTICAL JOURNAL FALL 2017 | IDPA.COM
Four Seven Eight
Perform a press check by transitioning the Grasp the pistol with a full grip, keeping the With the muzzle in a safe direction, visually
pistol in your hand to orient the thumb on trigger finger indexed, and draw the pistol. and physically check the chamber, breach
the backstrap and the fingers over the slide. Point the muzzle in a safe direction while face, and magazine well to ensure it is clear.
Squeeze your fingers to move the slide pushing up on the slide catch (with the Look away for a moment and repeat the
approximately one quarter inch to view the thumb or index finger catch dependent on inspection Never rush
brass. Release the slide and secure a full the configuration). Catch the rear sight or
proper grip. edge of the ejection port on a stiff surface
(i.e. the edge of the holster, corner of a
pocket, or heel of a boot) and manipulate
the slide, removing the chambered round,
and lock the slide to the rear.

8a 8b

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rick Cicero, A444645
7a 7b I am a former Army Paratrooper and was
blessed to be in the SOF community. This
4a 7c 7d is what truly created the heart that helped
me survive and now thrive. After service,
I was a police officer, firearms instructor
and canine handler until I retired due to an
injury. I became a military contractor. In
Afghanistan, I encountered an IED which
took my right arm and leg. Now I am the
Lead Instructor for HAVA’s Learn to Shoot
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OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE IDPA
MATCH REVIEW

2017 IDPA
VIRGINIA INDOOR REGIONAL (VIR)
Shooting Lights out in Virginia. WORDS JEFF KOKE, A00419 PHOTOS JEFF ROBERTS, A42162

N
The controlled
NORFOLK COUNTY RIFLE RANGE (NCRR) lighting indoors
HELD THE VIR FROM MARCH 31ST always makes for
THROUGH APRIL 2ND 2017. THIS UNIQUE great fireball pics.
match has 10 stages held entirely indoors
with half of the stages shot in the dark! The
VIR hallmark is that it is the equivalent of a
day/night match. A hand-held flashlight is
definitely required. All the (new) IDPA rules
were observed, fault lines in the dark, who
would have considered that? This year, we
shot the dark stages first.
Once again, we were able to fit five
stages into our 40 foot wide by 75 foot
deep indoor pistol range. It is a tremen-
dous accomplishment to be able to layout
five stages to be shot in the dark and then
quickly reconfigure them for the light
portion! We were also successful rotating
a squad of ten people through all these
stages in a timely fashion! Special thanks to
Jim and Laura Darsch, and John and Sandra
Card for accomplishing this! Responding
to a lesson learned, this year we increased
the squad times to four hours and added
a third shooting day; providing more than
ample time for the competitors to shoot all
ten stages.
We had over 83 registered shooters with
69 actually pulling the trigger. We received
many compliments testifying to the fact
that we are a friendly group with SOs who
are truly interested in the safety of the
competitor.
Some of this year’s comments/compli-
ments follow:
“Thanks for running a safe and unique
match.”
“A well organized, well-staffed, efficient-
ly conducted and fun match. I only wish I
had left MR. STUPID at home!”
“Fun match with deceptively challenging
stages. 10 stages shot in just under three
hours -- ran like clockwork! Thanks to all the
SO’s and staff that made it happen.”
“Fine job on the VIR match this year. I

| |
36 TACTICAL JOURNAL FALL 2017
thought the SO’s were solid and fair, the in the light. The muzzle safe zone was very MD, both CSOs and administrative staff not
COF challenging, but also fair, and every- clearly marked. As this is a defensive shoot- currently working the range. Scores were
thing ran smoothly. We were on before ing sport, we will be opening doors and independently entered into two tablets and
8am and off by 11ish. Only my second year windows, and then shooting through them. then compared to ferret out disparities. This
shooting this match, but I will do it again if Safety is always paramount. year, we posted the scores to Practiscore
you do a 2018 edition.” Jim Jones was our match director. He each evening. Once the match concluded,
“I thought it was an excellent match. The along with a cadre of over 25 staff sup- the final scores were posted on both the
stages were well designed to work with ported the VIR. We ran alternating shifts of Practiscore and IDPA websites.
the format of the match (i.e., the one walk paired up Safety Officers and Scorekeepers Many thanks to the IDPA SOs and staff
through, per 5 stages), the officiating was on all five stages. Well over 20 SOs worked for a safe and successful match. Over
well done, the match ran well within the four hour shifts with a four hour break. 10,000 rounds were expended with half
allotted time, and the awards were tasteful.” The courses of fire were provided by three fired in the dark!
With a significant number of DQs on one different folks and consolidated together
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
stage, here is a picture of how you get to with the Match Director and Chief Safety
Jeff Koke, A00419
go home early. Nine of the ten DQs were on Officers determining which to employ. Jeff Jeff Koke is the IDPA discipline chairman for
this stage. Seven of the nine were during Koke and Jim VandenAkker provided the the Norfolk County Rifle Range (www.ncrr.net)
the lighted portion of the match. An obser- match administration taking care of match in Chesapeake, Virginia. He is on the Board of
vation: A vast majority of shooters were applications, fielding questions, and overall Directors at NCRR and has been active in the
shooting sports since 1990; joining IDPA in 1997.
cautious in the dark, but some got careless logistics. Scoring was accomplished by the
EMERGENCY RESPONSE

WHAT’S
IN YOUR
BOO BOO
BAG? Thinking beyond the few
Band-Aids in your range bag.
WORDS BOBBY BAKER, A361352

I
IT’S A GREAT DAY AT THE RANGE. THE all have had a scrape or slide rash at the needed to continue the day.
WEATHER IS COLD AND VERY WINDY. range, we hope and pray to never be the Next to consider in your booboo bag list
SOMEONE SAYS “THERE’S NO SUCH victim of anything significantly impacting of potentials is an allergic reaction. Many
thing as bad training, just bad clothing”. our health. Accidents still do happen and of our range stages are home to various
You think you could argue either or both can take a great day of fun and enjoyment insects that can cause issues for some
but decide it would take away calories that down the slippery slope to a serious med- (think bees and more). Additionally, some
you could spend on staying warm. You’re ical and traumatic malady. Additionally, people are allergic to various foods and en-
up next on the stage but instead of thinking many of the ranges we utilize are quite vironmental allergens. In extreme cases, an
about your shot sequence, all you can men- some distance from a hospital or even the example of the mere act of shaking hands,
tally see is that warm cup of coco and your rapid response of emergency services. or patting someone’s neck after eating a
recliner by the fire. The RSO gives you the Some medical emergencies left untreated peanut butter cracker can be enough to
go ahead to make ready and as you re-hol- can become very serious or even life threat- send them into a potentially deadly spiral of
ster, the unthinkable; an AD!!! Holy crap, I ening in a matter of minutes. Regardless, reaction.
just got disqualified. Well at least I get to we must be ready to take care of ourselves During an allergic reaction, your immune
go home and get warm. Wait a minute, I and our range buddies if the need unfortu- system releases antibodies and proteins.
know a DQ is supposed to hurt your pride, nately arises. The cells then send out histamine and other
but why does my leg hurt so much? Oh my The more common maladies at the range chemicals, which causes blood vessels to
god, I just shot myself!! include “slide rash” or a cut from nail or sta- expand and also trigger the allergy symp-
We often see articles in the Journal ple on the stage. Most often these are very toms. Allergic reactions might range from
about what various shooters carry in their minor in their damage and the resulting mild and annoying, to more severe and even
range bag. This often includes band-aids, bleeding can be more of a nuisance than life-threatening. It all depends on the way
antibiotic cream, and some lip balm. a real emergency. A few minutes of direct your body reacts and how much of the al-
However rarely do we talk about and plan pressure, coupled with band-aids of varying lergen got into your system. If an allergy is
for the potentials of true medical or trau- sizes and some antibiotic ointment from severe, you may develop a serious reaction
matic emergencies at the range. While we your booboo bag will often be all that is called anaphylaxis which can be life-threat-

There are a wide range of

suppliers available today
for most of these products.

| |
38 TACTICAL JOURNAL FALL 2017 IDPA.COM
 While guns sports
are incredibly safe,
it always pays to be breaks in the skin are more likely to get in-
prepared for the worst.
fected with tetanus bacteria. These include
(among others):
4Wounds contaminated with dirt, poop
(feces), or spit (saliva)
4Wounds caused by an object punctur-
ing the skin (puncture wounds), like a nail
or needle
4Burns
The incubation period — time from ex-
posure to illness — is usually between 3 and
21 days, depending on the kind of wound.
ening and needs urgent medical attention. with basic tools and information on the Symptoms of tetanus include:
While stings are the most probable, general simple steps they can take in an emergency 4Jaw cramping, the first sign is most
allergic reaction symptoms may include a situation to stop life threatening bleeding commonly spasms of the muscles of the
large area of swelling at the site of the sting, that can save lives. Research has shown that jaw, or “lockjaw.”
itching or hives all over your body, short- bystanders, with little or no medical train- 4Sudden, involuntary muscle tightening
ness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, ing, can become heroic lifesavers. Similar to (muscle spasms) — often in the stomach
or a cough. Additionally, you may feel the use of CPR or automatic defibrillators, 4Painful muscle stiffness all over
tingling in your mouth, tongue, lips, throat, improving public awareness about how to the body
or facial swelling. All of these symptoms stop severe bleeding and expanding per- 4Trouble swallowing
are serious, though the more that are pres- sonal and public access to Bleeding Control 4Jerking or staring (seizures)
ent and the quicker they present, the more Kits can be the difference between life and 4Headache
severe the reaction. Anaphylaxis is serious death for an injured person. More informa- 4Fever and sweating
business with your body going into shock. tion can be found about the Stop the Bleed 4Changes in blood pressure and
Left untreated anaphylaxis can cause some campaign and how to address life threaten- a fast heart rate
people to quit breathing and even have ing bleeding at dhs.gov/stopthebleed. Tetanus is a medical emergency re-
their heart stop beating. Basic items to potentially include in quiring care in the hospital that will likely
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or some your bag to address severe bleeding include include aggressive wound care, drugs to
fast-acting antihistamine is a good medi- a tourniquet (or two) and a hemostatic control muscle spasms, antibiotics, and
cation for any of us to have on hand as you impregnated gauze bandage. Among more. Being up to date with your tetanus
never know when that sting may be more others, companies like Tactical Medical vaccine is the best tool to prevent tetanus.
than just a little painful nuisance. Those Solutions (tacmedsolutions.com/ Protection from vaccines, as well as a prior
with known allergies should plan appropri- category/hemorrhage-control) and infection, do not last a lifetime. This means
ately and carry prescribed medications as North American Rescue (narescue.com/ that if you had tetanus or were vaccinated
appropriate, this may include epinephrine community-preparedness) have multiple before, you still need to get vaccinated
(one common device is the Epi-pen). You applications to potentially fit your personal regularly to keep a high level of protection
might even want to consider telling one of needs These simple tools coupled with against this serious disease.
your shooting partners where your medica- direct pressure can truly mean the differ- Many of us have no problems in drop-
tion is in case you can’t get to it or use it on ence in life and death. However, it is not ping good money on a new holster, maga-
yourself (hint – in your shooting bag is best, enough to simply carry the items, find a zines, parts to trick out our guns, and even
the car may be too far away and the heat class and learn how to use them effective- shooting schools to give us that shred of
inside a car may degrade the medication ly (dhs.gov/stb-learn-how-stop-bleed). competitive advantage. Take a few of those
more quickly). Information and tools like these are applica- dollars and time and invest in some simple
If you carry or use a gun, you should be ble not only at the range but on occasion in items and training for your booboo bag.
prepared to treat a gunshot wound. The everyday life. For a couple hours of your time and less
White House and Department of Homeland While the big and immediate situations than $75 you could make the difference in
Security recently launched the “Stop the get the press and attention, don’t forget you or your shooting buddy seeing anoth-
Bleed” campaign to provide bystanders that sometimes even minor wounds can er day of shooting. A little planning and
of emergency situations (i.e. the public) bring about dire affects. Always make investment can keep a bad range day from
with the tools and knowledge to stop sure you stay up to date with your tetanus becoming a terrible tragedy.
life threatening bleeding. Uncontrolled shots. Tetanus (sometimes called lock-
bleeding injuries can result from natural and jaw) is an infection caused by a bacterium
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
manmade disasters and from everyday ac- called Clostridium tetani. Spores of tetanus
Bobby Baker, A361352
cidents. If this bleeding is severe, it can kill bacteria are everywhere in the environment, Bobby Baker is an IDPA member who
within minutes, potentially before trained including soil, dust, and manure. The spores regularly shoots at the Roanoke Rifle and
responders can arrive. A femoral artery in- develop into bacteria when they enter the Revolver Club near Roanoke, VA where he
sult that could result from our introductory body. The spores can get into the body serves as one of the medical safety officers
for the IDPA matches. He has been involved
scenario could lead to death in less than five through broken skin, usually through injuries
in emergency services for over 28 years with
minutes left untreated. The Stop the Bleed from contaminated objects, and stepping most of that as an active Paramedic.
campaign targets in providing bystanders on a rusty nail is not the only way. Certain

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE IDPA |

FALL 2017 TACTICAL JOURNAL 39 |
TROPHY ROOM

WINNER’S
CIRCLE
Congratulations to
everyone that attended the
Wisconsin State (including
HQ’s own Allison Launius
with a match bump to SS ),
Massachusetts State and
Vengeance in the Valley.
Great shooting everyone! SSP Marksman 1st Place
Sara Cannell
High Lady
Alecia Russell

Revolver Division Champion CCP Division Champion High Industry

Bill Thorpe Brian Caira Lee Adams

SSP Expert 3rd Place Revolver Sharpshooter 2nd Place ESP Marksman 2nd Place
Mike Zhang Tim Whitman Joe Chappie

| |
40 TACTICAL JOURNAL FALL 2017 IDPA.COM
 ESP, Ex, 1st CDP, SS, 1st SSP, MM, 2nd
Brandon Beaver Charles Hursh Tim Raubenstine

SSP, SS, 1st High CCP High Distinguished Senior

Dave Figler Evan Thursby Eugene Ulshafer

Rev, MM, 1st High Lady CDP, MM, 1st

Walter Mosetter Jennifer DeFazio John Howson III

Revovler Champion High Junior SSP, Division Champion

Ken Ortbach Lian Dunlevy Simon Cote

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE IDPA | |

FALL 2017 TACTICAL JOURNAL 41
TROPHY ROOM

High LE High ESP Division Champ BUG

Raymond Pescatore Robert McClain Thomas Ropers

Division Champ CDP Division Champ ESP Division Champ REV

Austin Proulx John Devere Mike Herro

High Industry High Junior High Law Enforcement

Greg Martin George White Josh Eernisse

High Military High Senior Joseph Kummerer

Aaron Brulc Christopher Terrington High Distinguished Senior

| |
42 TACTICAL JOURNAL FALL 2017 IDPA.COM
 Visit IDPA.com/compete
to find a club match near you.
START DATE EVENT NAME LOCATION

Aug 4, 2017 Delaware State Idpa Championship (Tier 2) Bridgeville, Delaware

Aug 11, 2017 2017 Idpa Michigan State Championship (Tier 3) Brighton, Michigan

Aug 13, 2017 2017 Algonquin Cup Provincial (Tier 2) Sundridge, Ontario, Canada

Aug 13, 2017 Lithuania National Match 2017 (Tier 3) Vilnius, Lithuania

Aug 18, 2017 2017 Washington State Idpa Championship (Tier 3) Renton, Washington

Aug 19, 2017 Sig Sauer 2017 New England Regional Idpa Championship (Tier 4) Harvard, Massachusetts

Aug 25, 2017 The Patriot Match (Tier 2) Lewistown, Pennsylvania

Sep 7, 2017 Swiss Idpa Championship 2017 (Tier 2) Colombier, Switzerland

Sep 8, 2017 2017 Rust Belt Championship (Tier 2) Wampum, Pennsylvania

Sep 9, 2017 2017 Brownells Nm State Idpa Championship (Tier 3) Farmington, New Mexico

Sep 9, 2017 The Masters 2017 Idpa Championship Presented By Glock (Tier 4) Hoover, Alabama

Sep 15, 2017 2017 Idpa Italian National Championship (Tier 3) Veneto, Italy

Sep 15, 2017 Commonwealth Cup (Tier 2) Charlottesville, Virginia

Sep 23, 2017 Prairie Dell Shootout (Tier 2) Bunker Hill, Illinois

Sep 28, 2017 2017 Idpa Us National Championship (Tier 5) Cresson, Texas

Oct 7, 2017 The Potomac Grail (Tier 2) Thurmont, Maryland

Oct 7, 2017 2017 Comp-Tac Mississippi State Idpa Championship (Tier 4) Blue Springs, Mississippi

Oct 14, 2017 Lone Star Idpa Championship 2017 (Tier 4) Cresson, Texas

Oct 20, 2017 Tidewater Maul In The Fall (Tier 2) Chesapeake, Virginia

Oct 21, 2017 Fall Brawl 2017 Match (Tier 3) Perryville, Arkansas

Oct 27, 2017 Liberty Matcth At Valley Forge 2017 (Tier 3) Audubon, Pennsylvania

Oct 28, 2017 The Western Idpa Regional (Tier 4) Sloughhouse, California

Nov 11, 2017 Holiday Havoc 2017 (Tier 2) Evansville, Indiana

Dec 2, 2017 2017 Florida Ccp Sheepdog Trials (Tier 2) Bunnell, Florida
 PARTING PRESENTED BY

SHOT COMP-TAC

Comp-Tac Victory Gear is giving you the

oppertunity to take a parting shot-but be
kind, we don’t want to hit you with a Failure
To Do Right. Submit your own original
caption for the photo below by emailing it
to [email protected]. We suggest you
don’t post your entry on Social Media to
keep others from “stealing” your idea. Once
your entry is recieved a super secret panel of
judges (think of them as a Trilateral Comission
or the Illuminati) will review the entries and
select their top three. So bring the funny.

READY TO
CAPTION THIS?

HOW TO ENTER
Step #1:
Think of something funny to caption the photo above.

Step #2:
Email your (hopefully) funny caption to
[email protected]

Step #3:
Sit around waiting to find out if you won, all the while
complaining about the whole process being unfair in not
recognizing your obvious comedic genius.

Step #4:
Cross your fingers, hope we like your wry sense of humor best.

PARTING SHOT WINNERS FROM OUR LAST ISSUE

Winner
“Sir, Hands on your head,
spread your legs. I’m applying
for a TSA job next week
and need the practice.”
—Darrin Simmons, A812127

Second Place
“Come on Bill! We can do this; I can
be your cover garment. They’ll never
even notice!” —Lewis Yakopec, A204956

Third Place
“Oh, thank you, thank you, thank
you, Mr. RO….it really was a double!”
—Doc Holliday, A10063

| |
44 TACTICAL JOURNAL FALL 2017 IDPA.COM
 PERFORMANCE WHEN IT MATTERS MOST

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