During the media event, we gun writers were treated to pistol training with Chris Cerino using Smith & Wesson M&P C.O.R.E. pistols and Crimson Trace Rail Master Pro lasers. Rifle and shotgun training followed with Jerry, Kay and Lena Miculek—talk about learning from the best. For some serious match experience, three stages were set up. Media members not competing in the entire match went through several stages, most using provided guns. Those competing in the match worked into the wee hours of the morning each day using their own weapons.
The Midnight 3-Gun Match was a fantastic means to work our gear and tactics. I used a Red Creek Tactical Apache LTC carbine, which ran flawlessly with Silver State Armory 77-grain OTM ammo, a Trijicon VCOG scope and a SureFire X400 Ultra flashlight. This setup handled every target with ease. The SureFire X400 Ultra was a lifesaver, especially on long-range targets, though I needed more time for getting a precise zero. But it was easy to shoot small steel targets quickly. Where the Crimson Trace Rail Master Pro really shined was on the VEPR 12 I used. The first day, I used a light and the VCOG. The second day, after adding the laser, my run times were a lot faster, and I finished in the middle of the pack for the RO match.
I learned a lot from this event, especially with Lena Miculek. My skills running a shotgun for 3-Gun purposes were enhanced considerably. It’s hard to beat learning from the best instructors out there. I had a lot of fun, and it was a real learning experience, both operationally and for competition. If you can make the match next year, make sure you get in line now; it fills up in a hurry, but you will not be disappointed!
For more information, visit crimsontrace.com or call 800-442-2406.
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