​In Steven Pressfield’s War of Art, he identified the enemy of art and progress as “resistance”, or our inner defiance against self-mastery. In his follow on book, Turning Pro, Pressfield outlines how we defeat resistance and, in turn, the amateur version of ourselves. You may be wondering how a book framed around writing and art can benefit those interested in the application of violence. That match you’ve been wanting to shoot, that CrossFit gym you pass on your drive, and that Jiu-Jitsu gi growing mothballs in your closet, this is our art. Turning Pro will help you to quit making excuses, stop procrastinating, and get back in the saddle. If you’ve chosen this life, or it’s chosen you, then you know it requires the mentality of a professional. This book will help keep that mentality on track. It’s a great read and likely the kick in the ass you need. “The sure sign of an amateur is he has a million plans and they all start tomorrow.” Bring a highlighter.

This is required reading for any "practical" shooter and I preach the gospel to everyone I can. Half shooting, half philosophy, Brian covers his mindset, technique, mechanics, focus, and his approach to shooting. Most importantly he requires you to THINK about your own shooting. It's not an easy read, especially, towards the beginning, but it's an important read. You're going to ant to go through this one a couple of times, and bring a highlighter on the second read through. 

Favorite Quote: "I once overheard a shooter say that he meditated before he shot. When you understand meditation, hopefully you'll see why you would, instead, want to meditate AS you shoot."

​​In this comprehensive volume, Paul gives his thoughts on leadership, instruction, continued learning, curriculum development, safety, and much, much more. Citing examples from his long and accomplished career, Paul pulls together lessons learned from successes as well as failures. By the end he has integrated everything into an actionable plan for improving your curriculum, your students, and yourself. Whether you're a leader, instructor, student, or all or none of the above, there is a lot to gain from this read. Bring a highlighter. 

Favorite Quote: "I was torn. One part of me hoped that he had missed, but another part recognized that his poor aim created a different dilemma for me as a team leader."