-Suarez International Tier 1 Staff Instructor Jon Payne We often are so comfortable with the past that we can stagnate and fail to see progress or recognize what the future can be? With technology changing so fast, can you really afford not to be on the cutting edge? Let’s talk about the AK for a moment. We’ve all seen the Chicom Poster “Keep That Crap off My AK!” How long did it take us to get past that? First we added folders because it just made sense to make the rifle easier to store and carry. The next move was to add a flash suppressor because we wanted to dampen the fireball coming from the AK’s muzzle and a compensator just isn’t needed on a semi-automatic rifle. It wasn’t long until we began mounting Aimpoint Micro’s on our AK’s using the Ultimak Rail. If you add a flashlight to the package you have a real squared away CQB rifle. Up until a short time ago an AK set up in this fashion was the apex of the Kalashnikov Fighting Rifle.... Continue reading

- Suarez International Staff Instructor Jon Payne I have been asked many times, “What classes should I take next"? If you’re reading this there is a good chance you’ve gone through all the steps to acquire a handgun, obtained your CHL (if needed), bought quality concealment gear, and you’re ready to take a basic course such as Defensive Pistol Skills (DPS). DPS is where it all begins. DPS introduces you to the fundamentals of marksmanship, basic weapon manipulation/gun handling skills, and immediate action. DPS also cultivates the Fighting Spirit or Warrior Mindset. By completing DPS you now have the same skills that are taught to police cadets and members of the military that are issued a sidearm. You should have confidence in your sidearm and your abilities to keep it in the fight. DPS is what I call a very good start. With a solid foothold with your fundamentals you’re ready to start learning. So what’s next? Close Range Gunfighting (CRG) is Suarez International’s flagship course and an intermediate class. In order to attend this class you have to know... Continue reading

-Suarez International Staff Instructor Jon Payne So I ask myself, “Where did all this begin?” How does one become a gunfighter? First and foremost one has to recognize the need for self-preservation. There are people that will never willingly cause harm to another living creature. I can deal with that and even accept it as long as they don’t portray themselves to be something they’re not. Don’t come at me with the judgmental moral high ground B.S., back in the days of caves and big sticks you would be mine. Want a glimpse of that cave man behavior? Look no further than the prison system. If you can’t fight and protect what’s yours, your possessions and your dignity will be taken unless you have something to offer of value to someone who can protect you. If you’re reading this you’ve probably made the decision that you are willing to fight for what is yours. The way I see it, if it’s not worth fighting for is it really worth having? Coming to the realization that only you are responsible for... Continue reading