The Japanese Art of Decluttering

Recently, upon the recommendation of Barbara Baird I read about the Japanese art of decluttering and organizing in the book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo. Let me begin by admitting organizing shelves, drawers, closets and the basement is not one of my strong points. Sure, the average person stopping by my house may think, “Wow, she has a neat and tidy home.” Hah, do I have them fooled! Beneath those shiny granite counter tops, within the oak kitchen cabinets and beyond that basement door lies utter chaos. Okay, maybe not that bad, but it makes me crazy. So, onto the decluttering of the belongings of an outdoor enthusiast, and how you can do it too.

In her book, Marie Kondo calls her approach to decluttering and organizing the KonMari Method. She had my attention on the second page when she said,

A dramatic reorganization of the home causes correspondingly dramatic changes in lifestyle and perspective. It is life transforming.

Surely I could apply this to my hunting, competitive shooting and other outdoor gear.

 

When beginning the KonMari Method, Marie insists for the best results, one must faithfully adhere to the following rule: Tidy in the right order.

Do not even think of putting your things away until you have finished the process of discarding.

Ok, easy enough. After searching through drawers, closets and shelves, I brought out all the hunting and shooting clothing I owned. This created a huge pile in the middle of my basement floor. What had I gotten myself into?

Now, the sorting or as Marie calls it, “The Selection Process.” Without getting into too much detail, (You really need to read the book.) the below list will give you a criteria for deciding what items to discard or keep. According to Marie, you must hold each item while making your decision.

• Does the item cease being functional?
• Is the item out of date?
• Does the item spark joy or speak to your heart?

Although time consuming, I held each item, went through the list and created a discard and keep pile. Everything in the discard pile went right into my van for Goodwill and the rest I folded and hung neatly. Since my outdoor clothing decluttering seemed to go so well I went up to my bedroom and attacked my closet and drawers the same way. On my trip to the Goodwill store I made sure not to peek in any of the bags before I handed them over and received my tax deductible receipt. You can search for other organizations with tax deductible donations on the IRS website.

The next category I started organizing consisted of my competition gear, (not including firearms). Much of the gear I used when I started competing has either broke or been replaced with newer versions. For these items I created three sorting piles. The first pile contained everything to keep, the second pile had items that I could sell or donate and the third pile I would throw out. Again, after holding every item and going through the sorting criteria, I had my piles all sorted. Pile one went back into bins and drawers, pile two went into my van to donate to a local shooting club, and pile three went right into the trash can.

My decluttering will continue as time permits, with my next category, concealed-carry gear. Barbara applied the KonMari method to many areas of her home, including her holster collection. Since she reviews guns for several publications, you can imagine the wide range of holsters she had amassed.

I love this method of organizing and sorting through ‘clutter,’” said Barbara. “I arranged my holsters into groups, according to the guns they held. If I didn’t have that gun any longer, it was an easy donation. If I still have the gun, then, I picked up the holster and manipulated it and thought about whether I really would use it.

Let’s just say … I made a huge donation of holsters to my local National Wild Turkey Federation’s silent auction event recently.” Barbara’s act reminds us that charitable outdoor organizations are always looking for items such as holsters, range bags and shooting accessories – new and vintage – for their auctions.

Marie Kondo claims, “Once you have experienced what it’s like to have a truly ordered house, you’ll feel your whole world brighten.” I will let you know if I ever get to that point. In the mean time, with my hunting and shooting gear more organized and my bedroom shelves and closet no longer jam packed I do feel a sense of accomplishment, I just hope I can keep them that way.

Let us know your success stories for decluttering your outdoor gear and clothing.

This article was first published in Women’s Outdoor News.

Make Kombucha Tea, the ‘Immortal Health Elixir’

Have you ever heard of Kombucha tea, aka mushroom tea?

I hadn’t, until I spent a week at Kenda Lenseigne’s home and questioned her about the 2-gallon glass container sitting on her kitchen counter, filled with a tan liquid, emanating a slight aroma of vinegar. She went to her refrigerator and brought out one of the many mason jars filled with the same color liquid and poured me a small glass. The first sip tasted a bit odd, but by the time I finished the glass I decided I liked it. My friend explained how she made the fermented tea called Kombucha and offered me her recipe and a small jar with a piece of her SCOBY (sometimes called, “The Mother” or Mushroom) to take home ( I would need it to start my own batch).

Originating around 2,000 years ago in Far East and sometimes called the “Immortal Health Elixir” this fermented beverage, known as Kombucha, is believed to have many health benefits.

Possible Health Benefits of Kombucha (These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA)

• Aids in cleansing and detoxification
• Improves digestion through increased nutrient absorption and waste elimination
• Increased energy
• Weight loss
• Boosts immunity
• Helps with inflammation reducing joint pain
• Probiotic rich

Although I could easily purchase Kombucha tea at most health food stores, being a “do-it-yourselfer,” I decided I would start my own batch with the SCOBY Kenda gave me. A SCOBY (symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast) contains a living colony of bacteria and yeast that start fermenting once combined with sugar. This ugly, rubbery, slimy disc grows and eventually covers the surface of the tea, sealing it off from the air. As fermentation takes place, the sugar turns into probiotics and healthy acids.

How to Make 2 Gallons of Kombucha Tea

What You Need:

• 2-gallon glass container (I bought mine at Walmart for $11.46)
• 2 cups of white sugar
• 16 tea bags or 1/4 cup of loose tea (I use green tea; however you can use others just avoid any oily teas like earl grey or flavored teas.)
• A light dishcloth and large rubber band
• Long wooden or plastic spoon (avoid kombucha contact with metal)
• Pot large enough to boil 2 gallons of water
• 1 SCOBY
• 1 quart of starter tea
• Glass jars with lids
• Strainer
• Funnel

Begin with sterilized equipment and wash your hands thoroughly.

1. Boil 1 gallon of water with 2 cups of sugar.
2. When the water boils, add 16 tea bags or 1/4 cup of loose tea. (I use green tea, however you can also use black tea.)
3. Allow tea to steep until it is cool (or longer).
4. Strain tea bags or leaves into a 2-gallon jar.
5. Add 3 quarts of cool water to jar.
6. Add 1 quart of the starter tea or pre-made Kombucha. (You will now have 2 gallons of liquid.)
7. Carefully add the SCOBY (mother) to the tea.
8. Cover the jar with a thin dishtowel and a rubber band to keep fruit flies out.
9. Allow to ferment for 7 to 10 days. Fewer days will produce a weaker Kombucha that is sweeter; more time will give you a stronger Kombucha with a more sour taste. I start tasting mine at 7 days.
10. Achieve the desired taste, then prepare your tea for the next batch. Now, gently remove the SCOBY and place on a clean plate. Reserve 1 quart of starter tea for your next batch.
11. Strain and pour the finished product into smaller class jars with lids and refrigerate.
12. The whole process can begin again.

To flavor the Kombucha, add a small amount of herbal tea or grated ginger to the jar when bottling.

I could go on and on about my Kombucha tea. Adding different flavors, brewing for varying amounts of time and even double fermenting for more fizz. Take the time and do some research online to find out what will work best for you. Although the recipes are similar, there are slight differences that you may like better. And if you decide you love your SCOBY like me, you can find my shirt at Violet Love.

So what are you waiting for? Let us know if you brew Kombucha Tea!

All the statements made in this post are based on the personal experience and a collection of research gathered in various ways. The author can in no way be held responsible for any problems arising from the use of the information contained in this site. All information is given freely for use at your own discretion and is for informational purposes only. No health claims for Kombucha have been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), nor has the FDA approved Kombucha to cure or prevent any disease.

Please consult with your Physician before using Kombucha tea. Only your health care provider can provide you with the best advice on what is safe and effective for your health. This site is not responsible or in control of the consumers’ home brewing process.

This article was first published in Women’s Outdoor News.

Force-On-Force Training with First Person Defender

Have you heard of the series First Person Defender? The YouTube program filmed in Louisiana that puts regular “good guys” into intense, real-life, self-defense situations. During season , I had the opportunity to play the good guy in 2 of the episodes. Now, for the filming of season 4, I get to work behind the scenes.

As new participants arrive on set, I can’t help but notice the tense look in their eyes and nervousness behind their laughs. Most have already watched the previous seasons of FPD, so they have an idea of what lies ahead. What they aren’t aware of is the behind-the-scenes work underway before they arrive.

Each episode takes place in a location in which participants may actually find themselves: a store, a classroom or maybe even their house. Before everyone arrives, we create the set to resemble the location and include some of the items one might actually find there. I had a great time constructing a convenience store with some cardboard, tape and the various snack items we had available.

Another huge task before filming is getting all the Simunition guns, ammunition and safety equipment ready. Simunition is a realistic and nonlethal force-on-force simulation training system. We converted the actual working firearms into Simunition guns by changing out the slide and the barrel. Then loaded the magazines with nonlethal marking cartridges. Helmets, groin protectors, neck protectors and gloves all organized on a table and set out for all participants.

Prior to the start of each force-on-force scenario, the set is made sterile. Each person is patted down, including the cameramen and crew, to check for weapons. This includes anything that has the potential to be a weapon. Searching the entire room comes next, again making sure no items could be of danger to any participant.

Next, the safety briefing, which includes the following information:

1. Everyone in the room must keep their safety equipment on throughout the entire exercise.
2. “In roll,” are the words that signal the scenario is starting.
3. “End ex,” is the signal that the scenario (exercise) has ended.
4. Everyone wearing chartreuse (the crew) is considered invisible.
5. No shooting at anyone’s head, or from any closer than arm’s length.
6. Once the bad guy goes down, he is dead.
7. The good guy never dies.

Lights, camera, action!

Now, the fun part. The good guy is handed a Crossbreed holster to wear and a Simunition pistol to put in it. She is then given a description of the situation she will be placed in, including what she needs to do once the scenario begins. Everyone puts on their helmets. Then Chris Cerino (my husband, who conducts the training) yells, “In roll, in roll, safety gear on!” The good guy’s heart rate rapidly increases, and finally everyone begins acting out their parts.

What will happen during each scenario is anyone’s guess. Once we hear, “End ex, end ex!”, everything stops. Pistols get set down, we remove our masks, and a debriefing takes place. Now the training session starts for each good guy participant to help improve something that hung her up during the exercise. Then, the process starts again: Another similar scenario starts and we watch to see if the good guy applies the training tip she just learned.

Ready to watch some episodes of First Person Defender.

Check out the previous three seasons on Gun Talk Media’s YouTube Channel.

This article was originally posted at Women’s Outdoor News.

6 Tips for Keeping the Secret of Concealed Carry

Some people think the practice of carrying a concealed firearm in public begins and ends with taking a course and becoming certified. Whether you are preparing to get your license or you already have it, the following 6 tips will help you remain concealed.

1- Gear

There are many choices in concealed-carry gear. Just stop into your local firearms store and ask anyone there to walk you through your options. Regardless of which belt or holster you choose, make sure it is high-quality. A gun belt is thicker and sturdier to keep your holster and gun in place.

Holsters are personal: Different styles work with different lifestyles. Before you buy, try on a bunch of different brands and styles. Make sure the one you choose is comfortable and functional.

As for spare magazines, some people carry them in pockets; others may not carry any at all. I’ve personally found the NeoMag pocket clip works really well for pocket carry. It keeps the magazine in the right place and right position for easy access if needed.

Finally, your clothing: Carrying concealed may require a slight change to your wardrobe. Darker shirts, and patterns especially, help to hide printing the outline of the gun. If you carry in the waistband (IWB), it may mean buying pants a size larger.  (IWB is not for me.)

The Internet is a great place to shop for options. Unfortunately, with online shopping you can’t try items before you own them. It’s the nature of the beast, and also why most of us have a box full of holsters in various stages of use.

2- Practice

Now that you have all your gear, practice, practice and more practice is in order. Work on your movements: standing, sitting, reaching. Can you sit comfortably? What happens when you stand up? Does the gun move? Practice getting into and out of your car. Did your holster shift? How can you correct it? Have someone observe as you reach for a high shelf. Can they see your holster? If so, how will you prevent that?

Practice drawing from concealment. Check to make sure your gun is clear of obstructions and follow the 4 firearms safety rules. With your unloaded gun, using all your gear, practice drawing from various positions, wearing different clothing. You can find out what works well and what really slows you down. Deep concealment will almost always slow you down, so you have to change strategies and tactics. No big deal.

3- Keep the Secret

As a child, it’s was always fun to say, “I know something you don’t know.” (Traditional sing-song voice is implied.)  As an adult, you should keep that in mind when you conceal carry.  By keeping your secret, you will maintain your element of surprise. Don’t let others know when or how you carry. What if someone asks if you are carrying? Katie Pavlich wrote about that in her recent column, “When Strangers Ask If You Carry a Concealed Firearm.” You need to be prepared to answer that question.

4- Hands Off

Be wary of telltale movements. These are movements that would cause a trained observer to know you are carrying a gun. Avoid bad habits, such as constantly pulling your shirt down. Trust that your cover garment will keep your firearm concealed. (Remember, you’ve tested it!)

If you are in public and feel something has moved or shifted with your gear, go to a private area and make your adjustments there. Whatever you do, keep your hands off in public. Some people are so obvious that almost anyone could tell they are carrying a firearm. Be more circumspect, and keep everything under wraps.

 

5- Relax

There is no reason to feel nervous when you are in public. You’ve already trained with your firearm, practiced with your gear and hopefully had someone observe your movements. Before you walk out of your house, ask yourself, “Do I look or act like I’m carrying a gun?” Remember how important it is to keep the secret!

 

6- Movement

Changing the way you move may help you feel more confident when you carry concealed. If you carrying on your strong side, start training yourself to reach with your weak-side hand. I carry on my right side at 4 o’clock, so I generally reach for everything with my left hand. When you’re at the grocery store, think before you reach…especially if what you’re reaching for is on the top or bottom shelf. For the bottom shelf, don’t bend over; bend at the knees in front of your shopping cart. For the top shelf, I’ll straighten my right arm against my gun and reach with my left.

If I have a cover garment that requires my support hand to clear it before drawing, I carry my bag in my strong hand. I drop what’s in my strong hand while I clear my shirt or coat with my support hand. I tailor my movements to my concealed-carry needs.

Don’t be overwhelmed by all that goes into carrying concealed. Take time to learn the ins and outs, then practice and train. Soon you will be comfortable and confident.

Looking for more WON articles on concealed carry? You can find many of them here.

Do you have any concealed carry tips to add?

This article was first published in Women’s Outdoor News.

The Anatomy of a Riflescope

Recently, I competed in the NRA World Shooting Championships. There were 12 stages focusing on various firearm disciplines, 5 of which involved using a magnified optic or scope. This column is intended to be a guide for people new to the use of riflescopes, and those afraid to ask questions. Riflescopes, whether for competition or hunting, offer a lot of choices. Choosing the best scope for your situation can be tough, unless you understand the anatomy of a riflescope and what the various parts do. Many times it’s simply a matter of cost, but having a better understanding of scope terminology can help when shopping for a scope, or using one you’ve never looked through before.

Ocular Lens: This is the lens, mounted in the eyepiece, closest to your eye. Turn the eyepiece in either direction until the crosshairs are in focus and crystal clear. You’ll get the best results doing this against a plain white backdrop.

Objective Lens: This is the lens closest to the target; it allows light into the scope. With its diameter measured in millimeters, the larger the objective lens, the more ambient light will pass through the scope and to your eyepiece. All other things like magnification being equal, bigger objective lenses keep you in the field later into the day because your eye has more light to use in low light levels.

Magnification Ring: Also called the power-adjustment ring or zoom ring. A variable power rifle scope will have a ring you can rotate to change the magnification of the scope. A 4X (four power) scope magnifies four times, and makes the object appear four times closer than with the naked eye. Very few scopes have a fixed-power, with one set magnification that cannot change. Most scopes are variable-power, and adjust from low to higher powers. Your selection of magnification depends on how far you want to see or how precisely you want to shoot.

Turrets: Often covered by caps, turrets are the two knobs in the center part of the scope tube that control windage and elevation adjustments. The turret knobs are marked in MOA (Minute Of Angle) or MIL (Mil-radian) increments, and show which direction you should turn the turret to make your desired adjustment. L is for left and U is for up, which means you’ll move the bullet’s impact in that direction when you turn a turret that way.

Windage Adjustment: This is the turret on the right side; it shifts the aiming point of the scope left or right on the horizontal plane.

Elevation Adjustment: The top turret shifts the aiming point of a riflescope up or down on the vertical plane.

Reticles: Also called crosshairs or aiming points. These are the adjustable aiming points inside the center of the riflescope. There are many styles of reticles, so choose a scope with a reticle you understand. The most common type of reticle is a standard (duplex) crosshair. A shooter can learn how to use complex reticles, and they definitely help you range targets and shoot faster and more accurately.

Parallax Adjustment: Parallax describes when the target image forms behind or in front of the reticle, or when the shooter’s eye is not on the optical axis of the scope. When parallax is adjusted, it cancels as much of the difference as possible between the reticle and the target image. Parallax adjustment allows you to focus the scope and put everything you see thru the scope in a direct line with your eye. Not all riflescopes have a parallax adjustment.

Illuminated Riflescope: This type of scope incorporates a battery or fiber-optic light source into the scope’s construction. The light illuminates the reticle so it stands out better against the target and under low-light visibility.

Eye Relief: This is the distance from your eye to the ocular lens where you can still see the full field of view without a dark ring around the edges. There needs to be enough room for a proper cheek weld and recoil to occur. The higher the recoil of the rifle, the larger the eye relief is needed to avoid getting hit in the eye. 

Kentucky Windage: Thought to be named after the Kentucky Long Rifle, this is a rough estimate for a change in point of aim to either side of the target. If you can’t or won’t adjust your scope’s windage turret, make this physical adjustment you make to compensate for the effects of windage that threw off your first shot. You just hold to one side off the target to get the bullet to go where you want it to go. 

Hold Over/Under: These terms describe where you place the crosshairs above or below your intended shot point of impact, depending on the distance.

Zero: This is the distance that the scope is sighted-in with reference to the flight of the projectile. A scope sighted in at 200 yards has a 200-yard zero. Set your zero with regard to how you use your rifle and scope, based on the distance you most often encounter targets.

This article, “The Anatomy of a Riflescope” first appeared in Women’s Outdoor News. 

Muzzleloader: Old Technology that’s FUN to Shoot

In the past when I heard the word muzzleloader, the first visual that came to mind was Civil War re-enactors scrambling to get their next shots loaded as the opposing army marched forward.

Can you imagine the stress?

Now, that I have a better understanding of muzzleloaders and have shot a few, my first thought is a bonus hunting season. Actually, depending on where you live or hunt, it may mean the harvest of additional animals if taken with a muzzleloader, hunting during milder weather or even during the rut. Now do I have your interest?

Simply described, a muzzleloader is a firearm that is loaded from the muzzle rather than the breech. There are 2 basic kinds of muzzleloaders. The sidelocks have a hammer on the side of the barrel and are usually historical replicas, copies of antique guns. Many are built to work and run like the originals; these are the kind you see at Civil War re-enactments. Some replica muzzleloaders may look like the antique guns, but they are used differently and are made of synthetic stocks. A hunter might add a scope or adjustable sights and modern projectiles might be used.

The second type is the in-line muzzleloader that resembles a modern rifle. The hammer, or firing pin, is in-line with the barrel.

3 Types of Ignition Systems for Muzzleloaders
1. Flintlocks hold a piece of flint in the jaws of the hammer. As the trigger is squeezed, the hammer falls and the flint strikes the frizzen (a steel plate). The frizzen moves, uncovers the priming pan. A spark from the burning priming powder is sent through a small hole in the side of the barrel, lighting the main powder charge
2. Percussion Caps use a priming cap that is placed on the nipple. As the trigger is squeezed, the hammer hits the cap sending a spark through the nipple lighting the main powder charge.
3. In-line Percussion also uses a percussion cap. The difference is that in an in-line percussion ignition system, the hammer and nipple are in-line with the barrel and powder charge.

3 Types of Projectiles
1. The round ball is always loaded with a patch.
2. The maxi ball is a conical bullet. Lube applied to seal the gas pressure.
3. The sabot uses a modern bullet surrounded by a plastic sleeve to provide a gas seal.

The Traditions Pursuit Lady Whitetail  ($428 MSRP) was sent to me in 2014. Not only is it easy to use, it weighs only 5.75 pounds. The Load-It Kit ($25.95 MSRP) makes life easier out in the field, and the EZ Clean Value Pack ($51.49 MSRP) makes cleaning simple back at the cabin. Although I’ve had the opportunity to shoot many muzzleloaders over the years, I purchased the Traditions™ Pursuit Lady Whitetail in Realtree APC™ Pink Camo since I enjoyed shooting and to keep the men in my family from using it during muzzleloader season.

If you decide to take advantage of the muzzleloader season, take your time to find the right muzzleloader for you. Once you get your gun home, read the manual and learn how to run it safely. Make sure you have an understanding of how everything works.

Sitting in the woods is a poor place to learn how to run your gun. Don’t forget, more time is needed to load the projectile in a muzzleloader. Since you may only have one shot at your target, make it a good shot.

Finally, if you shoot your muzzleloader, you must clean it – immediately. Black powder and substitutes are corrosive.

After all, it’s never too late to try something new, get a muzzleloader!

This article was first published in Women’s Outdoor News.

Good or Bad Santa: Who’s Dropping by Your Home?

When it comes to giving gifts, is there a Bad Santa or a Good Santa in your life?

This time of year you are almost certain to see Santa Claus somewhere nearby as you shop. For the most part he looks the same: chubby, red clothes and hat, black belt and white whiskers. Sure, sometimes he wears glasses, or his beard may be a little grey, but nothing out of the ordinary. What you won’t know until Christmas morning, after Santa has visited, is that there are Bad Santas. Hopefully your Santa is the good one!

You see, you need to be sure Santa knows what you really like and don’t like … or bad gifts can happen.

A Bad Santa might think every girl wants a pretty pink gun, but Good Santa realizes that it’s not the color that makes the gun female-friendly.

A good Santa knows if you like color accessories and what colors you prefer. I like a little color to make my firearms my own, but many women dislike colors, especially pink.

A Good Santa knows that smaller guns aren’t always best for ladies. Bad Santa thinks it’s only about hand size, but Good Santa takes you to the gun store to hold various guns and choose a size you prefer. He understands that generally, smaller handguns aren’t easier to shoot. He understands that guns are like shoes. Some fit. Some don’t.

Bad Santas think bigger bullets are what the lady needs. Bigger bullets, bigger holes, right? Good Santa knows what’s most important is that you can shoot it accurately and are comfortable shooting it. He takes you to the range to practice with guns of different calibers and sizes to find the caliber you are comfortable shooting. Ooh! Range time certificates!

Bad Santa might decide to choose some new range clothes for you. Maybe he saw an ad that specified that the clothes are “just for the ladies.” Good Santa should know that you are particular about clothing, especially clothing that needs to fit for function and the ensuing rise of the pant design. Maybe he could take you shopping (and include lunch, please, and not at the food court) or just get a nice certificate to avoid being on the Bad Santa list?

The funniest thing I used to get from Bad Santa? Pink camo pajamas. It took years for Bad Santa to get it through his head that I just don’t like camo pjs!

The difference between Bad Santa and Good Santa appears to be simple. Although good intentioned, Bad Santa gives you what he likes and thinks will be best for you, which is not always the best choice. Good Santa will ask questions, take you shopping and to the range before he delivers your Christmas gift. He listens to what you like best and adheres to your wishes. Unless of course it’s diamonds, then he can chose whatever he wants.

This article was first published in Women’s Outdoor News.

Will you be a “Good Santa” or “Bad Santa” this year?

Infographic: How to Bide Your Time While Hunting

Are you spending time in the woods, silently waiting for deer to wonder through? If you’re like me, you are always looking for ways to entertain yourself to pass the time. Following is an infographic with a few ideas I came up with on my last hunt.

Download “How to Bide Your Time While Hunting” infographic here.

How a Penny Pincher Can Compete in 3-Gun

Competing is 3-gun is fun, challenging and expensive. In my family, with three of us involved in the sport, the bills really add up. For those planning on getting involved in competing try budgeting your money wisely, and save a penny here and there with these tips. Let’s look at the 3 main categories of expenses for matches; gear, travel, and match fees.

Gear

Having all the gear to shoot 3-gun sure makes competing a lot easier, but not completely necessary. If you do the research, you can find ways to get gear at a discount. Many 3-gunners update their gear frequently or win items off the prize table  they can’t use.  It never hurts to ask the prize recipient at the match if she is willing to sell any items. If you like shopping online, you may want to search brianenos.com or AR-15.com forum classifieds. Also, for those on Facebook you can write your wanted ad or see what others have for sale. Visit 3 Fun Gear Yard Sale or just ask around for other Facebook groups.

When buying your guns don’t feel you have to go all out to start. If you can that’s great, but you’d be amazed at what you can find used to meet the need. When buying new guns, do research and make sound purchases. Shop around,  ask friends who have already purchased or post questions on Facebook. Then, sift through all the information you’ve been bombarded with and make your choice.

Travel

Flights, hotels and meals can make the cost of a match sky rocket. When flying, travel light. Your guns will take up at least one checked bag so you will need another to hold your clothing and gear. Also, leave room in your carry-on to put items from your checked luggage that may go over the weight limit. Whenever possible we try to fly Southwest. They are a gun friendly and the first two checked bags are free.

Hotel prices vary greatly. Always look for discounts; NRA Member Benefits, AAA, Military, etc. You might also try a bed and breakfast or places like Airbnb where you can rent a room or even a house. When traveling alone save money with a roommate and consider sharing a rental car.

Eating every meal out may be convenient, but the cost and food choices can make a huge dent in a budget. Try to find a hotel that includes a breakfast and factor in the cost. Although it may cost a little extra, saving money on breakfast (and perhaps packing up a few snacks for later) may be worth it. Quite often you’ll need to leave for the match before it’s served. If you ask the evening before, the staff will usually pack a breakfast for you. For lunch, hit a local grocery store and pack healthy foods to snack on during the day.

Match Fees

Volunteer to work at a match and you not only get your match fee covered but you will learn a ton. You may even get your hotel and meals included. You can volunteer for numerous positions if you ask early enough; range officer, sponsorship coordinator, social media marketing, writing press releases, photographer, or working registration and prize table. As soon as they announce the match, contact the match director and let him know you’re available.

A Few More Practical Tips

• Buy ammunition in bulk and when it’s on sale.
• Don’t go to war with long range targets. Chances are the penalty for the miss is less than the time it will take you to fire that, “One More Shot!” You’re not just burning up the clock, but ammunition too.
• Save brass when you can to sell or reload.

The best resources are the people currently competing. Ask, ask, ask! You never know who needs a roommate, when people are carpooling and what others may be willing to sell. Go for it!!!

Be a penny pincher and shoot 3-gun on a budget!

Shotgun Sports: My Plans and Goals

This year I set the goal to learn more about the shotgun sports, my weakest link in 3-gun. This journey began when I joined the The Shotgun Chelsea Bun Club (SCBC). Since they are located in England, I follow their events through the power of the internet. My obsession with Downton Abbey drew me to the SCBC. With shooting events held on the grounds of beautiful castles what more can you ask for? How about stunning clothing and desserts after every event? They have that too. Hopefully I will soon find myself across the pond with these lovely ladies. However, I digress, back to the shotgun.

In pursuit of my goal, joining the local outdoorsman club came next on my list. Fortunately, less than 10 miles from my house lies Hill’n Dale Club. Originally opened in 1954 as a private hunting club, they added a sporting clays course in 1990. Between sporting clays, skeet, five stand, and trap, there’s plenty of shotgun sport activities to keep me busy.

From May through August, every Tuesday evening, the ladies of Hill’n Dale arrive with their shooting vests and shotguns to partake in the Ladies Night activities. The ladies split into groups, hop on golf carts and head out to the courses. Each group of women, under the helpful eye of an instructor, practice demolishing those little orange devils as the fly though the air, or bounce along the ground.

At 7 o’clock it’s time to return to the lodge. With the shooting over it’s time to relax and enjoy each other’s company. Everyone brings snacks to share, we tell stories, and make future plans.

Many people tell me the shotgun sports are a mental game and suggest I read, With Winning in Mind, by Lanny Bassham, a former Olympian. His book contains steps to help me work through each station of the sporting clays course. Although I have more work, I truly believe reading this book will help me on my way to becoming a better shotgun shooter.

So, how will I know if I achieve my goal? In November I will be attending the Kansas Governor’s Ringneck Classic. Through this event I hope to inspire others to try something new and to have a successful hunt. Also, I’m hoping to hit a higher percentage of aerial target this year in 3-gun. 

Wish me luck in my shotgun sports!!!