Operation: Convert an Anti

[bootless]

...

[GOEX FFF]

Good on you. I've posed my experience below on the subject before, but I always keep 6 things in mind taking a new shooter or otherwise "late bloomer" out the range.

1. Refrain from using any Human type targets for a first time shooter.
You're there to teach them how to shoot, its not time yet to start dropping the first BG they can. (See #3)
Let them get comfortable first and use abstract circle targets.. etc.
Or if outdoors at a range use the steel plates.

2. Limited or No political speeches to a first time shooter. Remember again, you're there to educate them on safeties, proper handing and also the Fun of shooting, not to push politics. If they become regular shooters this will all fall into place eventually. If you have any C&Rs, give them a brief history on the said arm, and give them a chance to experiance a true working piece of history.

3. Refrain from any relations such as "Stopping power" or "Deadly" when describing or talking firearms or ammunition.
They don't need to be flooded that firearms are only associated with "killing" things.

4. Encourage accomplishment after they have or tried to hit their target.
Shooting is also being able to challenge yourself to hit the target you're aiming at.
Praise them how they did. It may leave them feeling a sense of achievement at something new.
Maybe make a shooting game like "who ever can shoot out a happy face in the targets wins!".

5. After the day is done, politely thank them for adding to the fun to your own shooting experience and offer them another time to go the range again.

6. HAVE FUN!!!

[jackandblood]

two so far. one was quite easy. Simple: How much would you stake on LEOs protecting you in time if you ended up alone at night, maybe you worked late into the night?

The other was my mom, after I was assaulted at a house party ( i wont be going to no house party where I know only one of the ppl there anymore). Detective so and so never did return my phone calls and inquiries as to finding the attackers. Also she loves Top Shot, she says its the only reality TV show see's seen where people conduct themselves with dignity.

Haven't convinced a previous anti to join me at the range yet. That'll change soon I think with a lady friend.

[bjl333]

I don't know if I have converted any antis, but I do know I have gotten started a few shooters in skeet. I think skeet maybe less imtimidating to people starting out.

I try to bring new people to the range as much as I can. I treat them as people and not as an anti. I try to respect their opinion, but I ask them HOW they came up with that opinion. Don't push people to do anything they don't want to do.