Holy Crap it was hot . . . .

 

Yep – there’s a heat wave in Iowa.  The “Boy” has been after the old man to go to an IDPA shoot with him – today was the day.  (nearly 80 at 6 AM).  Couple of hours of setup – 6 stages (nearly 85 by 7:30 AM).  Range brief, broke us up into 2 groups.  9:30 AM range brief done, stages set, ready to rock (and we’re at 95). 

Gotta admit the “Boy” kinda handed my butt to me – nice to see him do well!  And, one more thing to note – very high heat can definitely effect my ability to shoot!  Anyway, videos will be posted tomorrow so you can chuckle along with him.  :) 

So, as we go though this long, hot summer together – some thoughts:

• Drink lots of water – LOTS!!
• Sun screen.
• Loose clothing – shed your cover garment between shoots to keep cool
• Up  your level of focus – high temps, tons of sweat, various levels of dehydration – all lower your ability to focus, compensate for it.
• Sweat towel – I’ve had one since the late 60s, they were almost an iconic part of the uniform of the Vietnam troop.  Do they even do that any more??  Anyway, make a sweat towel part of your range bag, Boggie-Bag, back pack – you’ll come to love it.
• Enjoy the day – we had a great time – even with the  heat.  18 shooters, good conversation, gentle ribbing, takin’ crap from the Boy – it was a good day!
• Did I mention drinking water??

Just as many folks won’t shoot in the dead of winter – many avoid the range in high heat/humidity as well.  Again – bad guys are a 24/7 deal, year around.  So – hit the range, find a shooting competition, make new friends and have fun!

 

UPDATE:  Some updates – quit laughin ‘ at the fat, old guy in the beige boonie hat!!  :)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Still a few more on the hand-held camera, will see if I can get them up tonight.