This was a sold out event with walk on's. I must say all who participated showed That rifleman spirit. On sun our line was a bit shorter,but with the threat of rain and a two hr late start did not deter our fine patriots. We had two new rifleman MS. Lori and Big Country after 6 AS and 3,000 rds well done SIR. A couple requalifiers One with a Bolt action (very nice Mr. Wood). I am happy to have been a part of this event. It would not have came off so smooth if not for my fellow Cadre thank you gentlemen. Here are some of the pics
This was my first Appleseed. Although I had no illusions about shooting Rifleman my first event, with top-notch instruction I sure came close (missing only by 2 points on the second day and only from screwing up the round count) On Saturday, the small targets were intimidating at first and I only managed a 136. I was all set to try a scope on Sunday, and would have if the rain storm hadn't flooded my camp the night before leaving my scope (and half my camping gear) waterlogged.
I didn't think I could hit the small targets consistently with iron sights, but I doubled my determination and really tried to absorb everything they had to teach. By the end of the second day, I had hit the 400 yard (scaled) targets at least 20 times in a row in back to back AQT's. The first time I put all 10 shots in the bottom row, I really felt like I had accomplished something. I've never even shot groups like that from a bench.
Overall, I feel the experience alone was worth more than coming away with a patch or not. I met some amazingly charismatic people with a strong passion for sharing both marksmanship knowledge and American history that every American should know, yet most never will. I definitely learned more in 2 days than I had in a lifetime.
Now that I have the confidence, with a little more practice, I know I could earn that patch. I'm already thinking about upping the ante and training with something more complex (like my Winchester 94 lever-action) Now THAT would be amazing fun.
I can't thank the instructors enough for their patience, charisma and dedication. I'm looking forward to shooting with you again.
DwightC,
I know I can speak with confidence that we all considered it an honor and a privilege sir. You afforded us an opportunity to discharge our duty and debt to the Founders in passing forward their ideals and traditions. You'll make Rifleman easily at your next event and I hope I am there to cheer you on. O0
In Liberty,
PHenry