Random Thoughts

I get asked a lot, do you have a LE/Military background and have you ever had to shoot someone in self defense? The answer to those questions is NO.

Some people in this industry and students think if a instructor doesn't have a yes to any of those questions they shouldn't be a instructor or don't have the ability or knowledge to teach. I'm calling shenanigans on that.

Example: Has Chuck Liddells coach ever fought for the UFC championship belt? No, so how was he able to coach/teach Chuck and help him become a champion? He shared his knowledge and skills and made him a better warrior.

People get to caught up with certificates on someones wall or by special tshirts. A smart guy once wrote in his book, "I'm not impressed by tshirts anymore".

Tons of people have amazing backgrounds, but cant teach. It also goes back to the training you NEED compared to the background the instructor has. You wouldn't go to a Muay Thai guy to learn Judo. That doesn't mean the Muay Thai coach isn't good, he just isn't good in the context of what you're looking for.


Fitness (or lack of) in self defense with a firearm. The myth of being safe just because you have a gun with you. I could hand someone a gun and holster and say "carry this and now your safe." It just isn't the way it is. If your over weight and get winded walking to the car how safe/prepared are you to defend yourself in a critical incident? People tend to be ambushed (caught off guard).
Example you re over weight and not very athletic and you get ambushed by a guy who is really athletic and already has the advantage because you're reacting to him. He gets to you, your in a physical fight and you cant get to the gun. Not to mention the fact you haven't exercised in years and are out of shape.

Carrying a gun isn't the end all, be all to being safe. People spend all this time, effort and energy reading about self defense and new guns, buying the newest gun,ammo and etc. Spend a little money on a gym membership or a weekly self defense class and be better prepared to defend yourself besides just carrying a gun.