THE PARALLEL OF FIREARMS AND DRIVER PERIODIC TRAINING AND TESTING! By Jerry Heying
A common response to the recommendation of a Protector taking a Protection Driving Course is often; “I have a driver license and I know how to drive”. And for some they will add, “I have been driving for many years, so why do I need training?” Usually this is not asked as a question but more of a statement! Whether if it is a statement or if it is an honest question, it’s one that needs an answer! As the title of this article suggests, I believe that there is a parallel between annual or periodic firearms training and testing, and driver training and testing. Regarding firearms training and testing, many say I have a pistol permit and have been carrying for many years, why do I need to train or shoot a qualifying course every year? Just because someone has a pistol permit, or that have carried a firearm for many years, how do we actually know that they can shoot? Or more specifically, can they hit what they are aiming at? And under stress? To test someone’s ability with a firearm. we have them shoot a qualifying course of fire, that has an established consideration of an acceptable pass/fail score. Basic levels are between 70-80%, and some advanced courses require higher such as Virginia does for the Armed PPS requirement which is 92%. It is a method to measure their shooting ability, using a timer, and a specific target, and EPST MAGAZINE • SPRING 2021 • ISSUE 5
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