By Dave Bates
For the Observer-Reporter
I’ve never taken the easy route in life. Looking back, I see plenty of mistakes I could have avoided. One thing that puzzles me is how many people buy a handgun and leave it in a drawer, thinking they are “ready” for emergencies. But having a gun doesn’t mean you’re prepared. It’s like thinking you can deliver a baby just by watching reruns of a TV show about doctors.
When people decide to take charge of their self-defense, they often do a few things. They may visit a shooting range, read some books, or watch videos online. Some even seek professional training, and that’s when the real learning begins. At my Alpha Omega Shooting Solutions School, students often come in unaware of how much they still need to learn. But once they start training, they transform into skilled and confident shooters, ready to handle firearms safely.
Let me share something important: my own shooting education was a tough journey but incredibly rewarding. If you have the chance to go to Gunsite, take it. Gunsite is one of the best places to learn about self-defense with firearms. The instructors are top-notch, the facilities are fantastic, and the environment is welcoming. Their training methods are effective. If I had the resources, I’d send anyone I care about to Gunsite without hesitation. However, I know that not everyone can afford it.
After 40 years of learning my own way, I received a Colonel Jeff Cooper Legacy Foundation Scholarship in 2014 to attend Gunsite. Colonel Cooper founded Gunsite and shaped modern firearm training. Since its start in 1976, Gunsite has been a leader in civilian firearms education and also trains military and police personnel.
Thanks to the scholarship, which was worth $1,800 for a week of instruction, I had to find ways to cover my travel expenses. As an elementary school principal, I wasn’t exactly rolling in money. Airfare, lodging, meals, and ammunition—all of these added up quickly. By the time I was ready to go, my “free” scholarship cost me nearly $2,000. But I’d do it all again in a heartbeat.
I reached out to various companies for help—ammunition brands, holster makers, and more. The support I received was overwhelming. Friends and businesses stepped up, providing ammunition, gear, and even a rental car upgrade. By the time I left, I managed to lower my personal costs to about $1,000. It was still a significant amount, but worth every penny for such an incredible experience.
So why am I sharing this story a decade later? Because someone reading this might be considering their own path into the world of firearms. If my experience helps even one person prepare for a trip like mine, it will be worth it. If you’re interested in training at Gunsite or somewhere similar, reach out to me. I’m here to help.
Dave Bates writes a weekly outdoors column for the Observer-Reporter. You can contact him at alphaomegashootingsolutions@gmail.com.
