AAR Low Speed – High Drag VSM 1 Day Carbine June 4th, 2011

Low Speed – High Drag VSM 1 Day Carbine (http://www.Lowspeed-Highdrag.com/)

June 4th @ Beaver Valley Rifle and Pistol Club (BVRPS.ORG)


Instructor: Jay Cunningham


This class is described as: “An entry level course for carbine shooters. This class is geared for those who have not had any formal instruction. “, which described me to a T. I have a few pistol classes under my belt but no formal training in carbine.

It was a pretty warm and sunny day, with 14 students present. One gentleman was on oxygen, and at least one or two students had never had any firearms training what so ever. There were varying types of AR’s present: one SBR, one gas piston, two left handed Stags, several Colts, several DD and several Franken Guns. Jay lent his Vickers DD rifle to one of the new shooters with no experience.

First thing covered was a safety briefing and the first rule of Vickers Shooting Method –Real World Firearms Handling. Jay covered the four rules of the range and then about real world safety rules and Professional firearms handling. We were admonished to observe the rules constantly through out the day, and encouraged to coach each other on it. The brief included discussion plans to do if someone was shot and a backup plan just in case the primary went south.

We then moved in to zeroing our rifles. Jay described the procedure, and demonstrated on target for us. We used a 100 yard zero by firing 5 rounds and adjusting, firing again, and so on. We spent a better part of an hour getting everybody a rough zero. The class as a whole was using optics.

For the next hour or so, we went over the proper field stripping and lubrication of the AR-15. Jay demonstrated and took the time to explain the components and truths/fallacies of the AR. We had a Subject Matter Expert on lubrications there explaining the differences in oils and greases. He had free samples and answered group questions.

Positional shooting was a good portion of the day. We concentrated on prone, sitting, kneeling, and standing positions. We discussed the other two rules of the Vickers Shooting Method- Accuracy is Final and You are responsible for every round you put downrange. Jay demonstrated each position and gave us tips on how to get comfortable and encouragement to work through any difficulties we had in getting into or maintaining a position. He also covered: stances, reloads, malfunctions, offset, correct firearms handling, and trigger manipulations. We were constantly reminded about safeties and registering a strong off trigger finger position until ready to shoot. During breaks, Jay took questions about everything from gear selection (magazines, slings, etc.) and placement, to where to get lunch. We participated in a walk back drill using a SW 15-22 on a 6 inch steel target. The luck winner won a Vickers Sling. We all got a sweet Low-Speed High Drag Hat!

I was impressed with how smooth the class went. Nobody got hurt and everybody seemed to be having a good time. Judging by the targets, it was obvious that everybody had also improved accuracy. I would recommend anybody would benefit from taking a class with Jay. He kept it light but serious. Looking forward to the next time.