The Pilot Who Bought a Russian Jet… and Reinvented Firearms Training w Mike Farrell Ep 7

Описание: In this episode of Making Shooters Better, host Terry Vaughan sits down with airline pilot and firearms training innovator Mike Farrell to explore how aviation safety culture can improve the way we teach firearms skills.

Mike shares how starting firearms training later in life shaped his perspective, how pilot psychological testing builds safer decision-making, and why bad habits in training are so difficult to undo. Along the way, he tells the unforgettable story of buying and importing a Russian jet trainer—and what that experience taught him about stress, systems, and discipline.

🎯 Topics covered in this episode:
• Why fundamentals matter more than advanced techniques
• How aviation handles risk, stress, and habit-building
• The role of mental health in high-stress professions
• Understanding the OODA loop for defensive decision-making
• Why trigger discipline breaks down under pressure
• How realistic training scenarios improve safety
• Turning simple ideas into innovative training tools

This conversation blends aviation, firearms education, and human performance into practical lessons instructors and everyday shooters can use right away.

👉 Watch the full episode to hear Mike’s story and take away training insights that apply both on the range and at home.
🎧 Subscribe to Making Shooters Better for more conversations focused on safe, effective firearms training.

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Instagram:   / smartfirearmstrainingdevices  

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Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mike Farrell and His Background
03:03 Mike's Journey into Firearms Training
06:02 Psychological Testing for Pilots
09:13 The Importance of Mental Health in Aviation
11:56 Cultural Shifts in Aviation Training
14:46 The Story of Buying a Jet Trainer
17:46 Experiences in East Germany and the Wall Coming Down
21:02 Negotiating for the L-29 Jet Trainer
23:54 The Journey of the Jet Trainer to America
26:49 Reflections on Flying the Jet Trainer
29:53 Final Thoughts on Aviation and Firearms Training
37:18 Flying Experimental Russian Jets
42:00 Transitioning to Firearms Training
55:48 Innovating Firearms Training Safety
01:20:38 Lessons from Aviation Experience
01:23:54 Building Habits for Performance Under Pressure
01:27:27 The Importance of Training and Pushing Comfort Zones
01:30:33 Innovative Training Tools for Firearm Safety
01:35:47 Applications of Training Pistols in Various Settings
01:40:26 Practicing Tactical Movements in Home Defense
01:45:47 Understanding the Dynamics of Home Invasions