Bald Knob, AR - AAR - Feb 26-27, 2022

[Captain]

Pistol IBC!

Huge thanks to V.E.T.S. Shooting Center for hosting our Pistol Instructor Boot Camp. When space is limited, Appleseed is lucky to find incredible ranges like V.E.T.S. who make it possible to pursue the mission.

Following our latest ice storm, the roads opened enough to see seven Arkansas Appleseeders come out to learn about teaching Pistol. Talk about dedicated! The weather was gray, below freezing, icy and wet with a nice breeze . . . and we had no classroom! Everyone huddled together to learn and practice teaching the pistol material. Most of the first day was spent practicing in groups of 2 or 3, reviewing the material in the Pistol Instructor Manual and demonstrating pistol skills through teaching and drilling. Everyone had a chance to practice the skills later in the day on the firing line. Sunday's weather was a big improvement, and we covered some new material (malfunction clearing, etc) but it was mainly another chance to practice teaching.

On the firing line, everyone spent most of the weekend with their centerfire pistols to work on skills that would stand up to recoil. We also managed to shoot a lot of PQTs! Everyone made great progress on both teaching the Pistol Points of Instruction and then applying those skills behind their pistols. When the dust settled, SwiftonGal and LykaiosChicka overcame equipment difficulties to earn their Pistoleer™ patch. Three other shooters made the score to requalify.

Despite the tough conditions, it was really fantastic to be a part of an event with such a motivated group of Appleseeders. Appleseed Pistol has arrived in Arkansas and with this crew it will be a great success. Thanks to all who were a part of this event!

[Captain]

Everyone spent a lot of time teaching the points of instruction.

[Captain]

"Feels 18" . . . Saturday was . . . COLD!

[Captain]

Big congratulations to Bright1! He shot his first Pistoleer™ score at the Pistol Miniseed event down in Hot Springs last fall. At the IBC, he requalified and completed the additional requirements to become Arkansas' first qualified Pistol Instructor. Huzzah!

[bright1]

Great weekend! Saturday was cold but a good time was had by all. Sunday was near perfect. Great job, Captain (as always!)

[Overmountain]

Regardless of the cold and wet, it looks like a great event, Captain!

[Buddy Love]

Had a great time with everyone and appreciate the range for taking care of us. Persistence was key and everyone came determined to carry on the mission of Project Appleseed.