CMP Offers Pistol Small Arms Firing School and
Warm-Up Match in July at National Matches

By Ashley Brugnone, CMP Writer/Editor

CAMP PERRY, Ohio – Those who have always wanted to try their hands at firing a real M9 Pistol in a safe and relaxed environment are encouraged to attend our Pistol Small Arms Firing School (SAFS), held Monday, July 7, during the Opening Day of the 2014 National Rifle and Pistol Matches at historic Camp Perry.

Since the school is structured toward teaching new shooters, no past firearm experience is required. Students will learn basic instruction and firing practices, competition skills and live range firing, as well as compete in a real M9 Pistol EIC Match at the conclusion of the clinic. Intermediate shooters are also welcome to participate in this fun and exciting opportunity. The minimum age for Pistol SAFS students is 14 years old.

Members of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit instruct the basic skills of pistol handling and safety in the classroom and on the firing line.

The SAFS courses have been a staple at the National Matches since 1918, with the involvement of over 1,000 pistol and rifle participants continuing each year. The school is conducted by members of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit and sponsored by the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP).

For those already familiar with pistol shooting, an Advanced Pistol Course will also be held the same day to provide additional class instruction, a Q&A session with real Pistol Champions and the chance to fire in the Service Pistol Warm-Up Match.

Besides learning the fundamentals of firearm usage, students will also learn how to score and other competition-related skills. At the end of the course, participants will even be able to fire in a real M9 match.

The Service Pistol Warm-Up Match is meant to be just that – an opportunity to “warm up” before the beginning of the National Pistol Matches. The event follows the President’s Pistol Match (one of the most prestigious pistol matches) Course of Fire and is open to adults and juniors who would like more experience in major competition.

Whether an experience shooter or picking up a firearm for the first time, come enjoy a day of fellowship and fun in one of America’s oldest pastimes with the security and knowledge of some of the best marksmen in the country!

For more details on the Small Arms Firing Schools and Warm-Up Match, visit http://thecmp.org/NM/Pistol.htm. Registration information can be found at http://thecmp.org/NM.htm.

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