Recently took a “class” that...well...went a bit poorly.
Sometimes, instructor personalities and the curriculum they teach just doesn’t mesh with the student. I was fortunate enough to have the basic experience under my belt to recognize the train departing the rails. At about late afternoon on Day 1, I walked off the range and called it done. Too much instructor ego, too many varied skill levels, too much mud, and not enough understanding of what was expected of us and how to get there. After I politely excused myself off the line, I was afforded the opportunity to be called a “quitter” by the instructor as I hiked over to make safe off line and collect my gear. Unreal. By the time I had packed my truck and had a Coke or two, class was over. The “instructor” walked over and began to confront me on why I walked off. It seems he just couldn’t understand why I didn’t accept his greatness. I explained to him that I was there to learn, not be inundated with his opinions and constantly guessing on what was the concept of the next drill was. He kept inviting me back for Day 2 while never giving me the opportunity to explain as a student where the class was falling short for me. I’d begin to discuss it, only to be interrupted by his retorts. Wanting it to just all be finished, I politely repeated my above comment about personalities and curriculum not always meshing. I was trying to give him a “gentlemanly out” of the conversation which was beginning to draw the attention of the other students. (It wasn’t loud, but the fact I had walked off and we were talking drew their ear. It probably didn’t help that many of them were feeling the same way I was.) He responded to me that he was not going to accept that comment. I responded back to him: “Well, today you are.” I wished him a good evening, turned around and walked away.
I’ve probably taken between 50-60 firearms training events over the past 15-20 years (classes/quals/etc) both voluntary and required. This one was voluntary. $500 bucks plus ammo and time. Never had an issue before. EVER. I’m in the business of “Type A personalities” too. Big boy rules and all that. My entire adult life. I get it. I’m 56. Sometimes, the money involved doesn’t matter. You just have to walk away and call it done.
Just goes to show, no matter how big the name (past or present) it’s Caveat Emptor these days in the training world.
Thanks for reading my vent!