[quote]Quoted:
I know there are a few hendread threads about range retards, but they make for such great stories! Post you best or worst range retard events here!
Today's-
Was at the local indoor pistol range and it was pretty busy. I really don't like shooting when there is a bunch of people but most looked like they knew what they were doing. Well wouldn't you know it two of the local "Thug Life" types show up and start shooting in the lane next to me. They had rented a Glock (too bad not a Fo-Tay) and the normal missing the paper @ 5 yards began. I stoped to take a break and stepped behind the line and glanced at one of them about to shoot the Glock. I noticed his thumb was up over the back of his strong hand. Before I could say anything he pulled the trigger... There was blood. A good deal of blood. Worst part was he set the pistol on the table (muzzle downrange thankfully) and held his bleeding had over it.. I feel really sorry for the guy at the range who had to clean up that mess and the Glock...
Probably shouldn't tell this story, since its on me, but I think its sometimes useful to remember that we were all beginners once.
Couple of years ago, after finding out I lived about 2 miles from a nice outdoor range, I decided to get back into guns. I grew up in NYC so never received any firearms training from Dad, uncles, etc. First exposure to guns was at camp when I was a kid (BB guns and .22's). Really loved shooting and was pretty good at it. Decided, some 30+ years later, to get back into it. Had never owned a handgunl, never shot a handgun, never received instruction on how to shoot a handgun and only seen someone shoot a handgun in the movies. Went to a local range and rented a couple of handguns to try. Range owner explained how to load, fire, etc, but not how to hold. So I basically just immitated what I'd seen guys on TV do. Figured to hands better than one. Grab gun in right hand, wrap left hand around it, placing left thumb on right side of pistol. (Basically what I assume "Thug Life" was doing in the above post). Needless to say I met with similar results.
Since then I've bought a bunch of guns, probably put 20,000 rounds downrange, and hopefully know a little more than when I started. But I try to remember this story whenever I see someone else do something dumb. I think most people who do this kind of stuff just don't know better. For the most part I'd rather deal with a dumb newby than some of these "range commandos". Usually with a newby if you politely point out what they're doing wrong they're apologetic and willing to learn. With a "range commando" they can get real bent out of shape if you dare offer them constructive criticism.