Scott Thompson

Firearms Instructor

Scott Thompson is a Firearms Instructor based in Stapleton, Alabama. He is the Owner and Lead Instructor at Gulf Firearms Instruction, a Premier Firearms Training Academy that has been teaching citizens and law enforcement personnel for more than 31 years. He holds multiple teaching certifications as an NRA Training Counselor; he is certified to train instructors in NRA Basic Handgun, Basic Rifle, Personal Protection in the Home, and NRA CCW. He is certified to teach Law Enforcement in pistol, revolver, shotgun, urban rifle, and sniper skills. Before instructing at Gulf Firearms, he was a Police Officer for 25 years, and he is a Retired SWAT Officer.

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Q&A Comments (7)

Can you tell me what are the qualities a sniper must have?
You need really good attention to detail and you must have the ability to communicate extremely well. You must be able to describe what you're seeing to somebody who can't see it in the command post. Everybody thinks a sniper is about shooting, but it's mostly about scouting. The ability to communicate and paint a picture with words at the command post is extremely important. Getting into your hide without being seen is also very important. Once you have the basics, the shooting is the simplest part of being a sniper. There's a lot of math involved because you're using scopes often and you have to measure distances with algebraic equations without a laser rangefinder. Pulling the trigger is the easiest part.
How can I defend myself from a house intruder?
To defend yourself from a house intruder, first prioritize your safety by making your way to a safe room, if available, and loudly announce your possession of a firearm, if you have one, commanding the intruder to leave while calling 911. Position yourself strategically in the safe room, ensuring you have cover and concealment. If possible, activate exterior lights to illuminate the intruder's silhouette, making it easier for you to identify and potentially neutralize the threat. In the absence of a firearm, consider using alternative tools or improvised weapons to defend yourself, such as books or household items. If fleeing is an option, break a window to escape, especially if you have children in the house. Train your children on safety protocols, such as seeking refuge in a designated area and calling for help. If confronted in a hallway, one defender can hold position while others seek cover or hide in rooms. Fortify rooms with obstacles like bookcases to create barriers against intrusion. Strategically placing furniture or objects near entry points can also provide cover and delay the intruder's advance. Prioritize securing entry points by installing sturdy locks and reinforcing door frames with long screws. Consider investing in an alarm system for added security. Remember, in many states, you have the legal right to defend your home with deadly force against forcible entry, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and vigilance in protecting your household.
How do I become a sniper?
To become a sniper, start by gaining experience in law enforcement, as most agencies require a minimum of three years on the job before considering candidates for specialized roles like SWAT teams. Excelling in various aspects of law enforcement, particularly on SWAT teams, is crucial before transitioning to sniper roles. Focus on developing strong attention to detail and physical fitness, as well as effective communication skills. Communication is paramount, as snipers must convey precise information about their observations to command posts. Scouting and providing detailed descriptions of the situation often take precedence over actual shooting. Mastering the art of stealth is essential for a sniper's safety, as remaining unseen is crucial. Once proficiency in these areas is achieved, training in marksmanship becomes relatively straightforward. While shooting skills are important, understanding mathematical calculations for scope adjustments and distance estimation is also necessary. Regular practice at the shooting range is beneficial, but the intricacies of marksmanship are generally the least challenging aspect of sniper training. Contrary to popular belief, pulling the trigger is just one part of the role; the majority of a sniper's work involves patience, observation, communication, and strategic positioning.
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