Firearms 101: An Inter-Org Day at the Range

There’s a saying around the SRA: “you go far enough left and you get your guns back.” That was certainly the case at last Sunday’s Fire Arms 101 Class, where members of the NMSRA and the Burque Autonomous Brown Berets of New Mexico got together for a day of guns in the sun. Training began promptly at 9 AM when the SRA Range Safety Instructor shared a helpful acronym that will stick in any leftist’s head: ACAB.

  • Always treat all firearms as if they are loaded.
  • Control your muzzle at all times.
  • Always keep your finger outside of the trigger guard until ready to fire.
  • Be aware of your target and what’s behind it.

Throughout the morning, groups alternated between three stations. At the handgun station, BABBNM and SRA members alike practiced target shooting with 22LR and center fire handguns; while attendees at the rifle station practiced with Bolt Action and Semi Auto 22s and pistol caliber carbines, working their way up to ARs and AKs. SRA instructors worked closely with the shooters, making sure all participants felt comfortable and confident. By demonstrating proper firearm handling and shooting techniques, instructors aimed to provide a safe range experience for new and seasoned shooters alike.

BABBNM rifle

At the medical station, SRA instructors walked attendees through emergency first aid basics. They discussed scene size-up, Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK) essentials, and the principles of Stop the Bleed. If the disembodied silicone arm on the table caught your eye, you weren’t the only one. This spooky prop, attached to a bag of fake blood, allowed folks to practice tourniquet application and gauze-stuffing on a simulated injury.

SRA Medical

spookly prop

As the training wrapped up, who could resist another hour or so at the range? SRA and BABBNM members took turns skeet shooting, target shooting with revolvers, and exploring all the weird, wonderful guns that crowd the gun safes of your average SRA member.

open range

It’s the hope of NMSRA that, by sharing knowledge and providing a safe learning environment, other leftist groups in our community will feel confident in their abilities to own and use firearms. A sincere thanks to the Burque Autonomous Brown Berets of New Mexico for joining us in this inaugural class, looking forward to seeing you all at the range!