There are some who would say that shooting a reduced head/shoulder target at 25 meters is not the same as hitting a full-sized target at 300...this is true to an extent.

Many variables come into play at such distances...wind direction & speed/bullet drop/etc.

However, without learning the basic principles of marksmanship to include the use of iron sights (scopes and red dots break, irons rarely do), the proper use of a sling, correct body position, cheek weld, sight picture, breath & trigger control, knowing how to adjust windage/elevation via minute of angle (MOA), a shooter may as well stay home and watch TV.

As for scopes, I've seen a few folks use them but they generally prefer the shooter to become proficient with iron sights.

AS shoots are not hard-core "sniper classes" that require the student to bring big dollar, high-tech gear.

Modern conveniences certainly have their place but by not learning the basic principles of marksmanship equates to a guy (or lady) who owns a rifle worth $$$ who doesn't know how to use it.

As I previously mentioned, the instructors throw in a little bit of our history...I was more than a little surprised at what our forefathers were capable of doing with a flintlock smoothbore muzzleloader at 300 yards while a bunch of guys in red coats were shooting back at them!

For the minimal fee charged to atttend, it is well worth it. AS shoots are very much about learning AND teaching. If you shoot "Rifleman" on your first attempt don't be surprised if an instructor approaches you and asks for YOU to organize an Appleseed program in your own community.

Learning is a great thing but a somewhat useless tool if you cannot impart that knowledge to others.

If I sound like a "fanboy" or "cheerleader" for these events it is because I am.

If we don't teach future generations these sound, simple, and important principles, who will?