It seems we always mention the weather in our AAR. Let's not break with tradition. Saturday was very nice with the forecasted heavy rain holding off until just at the end of the day. Sunday was dry but very cold for March in Florida. None of it seemed to bother the shooters. They came with high expectations, and I believe those were mostly met. We were doing a trial run of a revised course of fire so there were a few changes on the fly. It all seemed to come together as all our objectives were metâ€"even one PQT Saturday. Stephen requalified Pistoleer™ (Expert), with a 222. Sunday, we reviewed everything learned Saturday and ran more drills. We heard the Sam & Sam story during lunch as only Malabar can present it. Before we ended the day, we revealed two new Pistoleer™s, Geo (220) and Simon (211), and Lou requalified (220). David A., George, JC, and Kurt earned Sharpshooter and are knocking on the door of Expert. Davis S. and Sara earned Marksman status. Brittnee, Pam, and Bob worked hard learning new skills. We hope to see them on the line again soon to perfect their marksmanship. Thanks to the crew who made this possible (Malabar, Nomadichillbilly, Sieggie, and Louie Louie). Thanks guys! It was a pleasure working with you. Special thanks to the Port Malabar Rifle & Pistol Club for once again allowing us to use their fine facilities.
Photos: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAwNdP
What a great event this was. For me, I thought it to be beautiful weather...
The lessons learned, the social intercourse, the comraderies, HISTORY, and of course the new friendships.
https://www.flickr.com/gp/197939987@N02/XG4eV1BMhR
Thanks for the pictures Kurt.
I was reminded that Nomadicihillbilly received his 25-event pin. Gary was instrumental in the early development of the pistol course of fire. He has instructed at many more than 25 events. He's one of those guys you can count on to show up when he's most needed and not bother to register in TIPS.
More pistol clinic fun, video
https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAwL8t
Accommodations...
George, Geo and I stayed at the Melbourne All Suites motel on 192 as suggested in the "get ready to shoot" email from Menace.
We found it to be quite acceptable for about half the price.
I believe it is an older Howard Johnsons and the Master suite that we had was two adjoining room that are together for the one price of $119.00 using the APPL promotion code if I remember with taxes about $139 per night.
Management was polite and accommodating.
Restaurant on site but close enough to other eating opportunities (we went dinner to Broken Barrel for BBQ)
Breakfast was a little on the spartan side but quite tasty... And, also, I left with a nice apple.
The rooms had two double beds in one side and the other was set up as a kitchenette / parlor that included a pull out couch that could sleep two more.
Overall, we are booking again for Patriots Day next month.
NOW, it certainly is not the Ritz Hilton but for a few riflemen (and women) who spent some money on quality ammunition, it was more that adequate for a bivouac.
Hope to see ya'll there in April! :F
That goofy guy that drove all the way from North Carolina to shoot in Florida, reporting in. I had a good time at my 1st Appleseed Pistol Clinic. Even if it was by the skin of my teeth, I'm very pleased to have qualified as Pistoleer™! We had great weather (imho), a very friendly and supportive team of shooters and what a nice facility!
My only critique was the limited number of chances to shoot the AQT. I understand this session was used as a beta-test for revisions of the course of fire. I'll chalk it up to that.
Kudos to The Crew. Consummate professionals with a wealth of knowledge and the patience to properly share it. Hats off you to y'all. Thank you so much.
Correction: PQT*