because it is cute is seriously underestimating the seriousness of women’s training issues. TDE To be treated as an equal, not as superior. There is no need for discrimination in this industry, since a healthy percentage of sales now target women. ASJ What advice do you have for young women who are interested in the firearms industry? LK Take that first step and go to the range. Then take a class in firearms training and finally practice, practice and practice some more. AT Find the very best mentors and trainers you can and remember your reputation is everything. TDE Check your feminism at the door. Check your drama at the door. Listen and learn from both women and men, and become proficient technically and tactically. This is not about making a statement; this is about recognizing that lives are at stake.
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American Shooting Journal // April 2018
ASJ What is the overall goal of WAVE? LK, AT, TDE (collectively) To train women in safety awareness, preventing violence and gaining confidence and proficiency in the use of firearms to keep women (and those they love) safe. Editor’s note: For more information about WAVE, contact Linda Keesling at lskeesling@yahoo. com. Author Paul Pawela is a nationally recognized selfdefense trainer of 35 years, the director of law enforcement training for the National Association of Chiefs of Police, and CEO of Assault Counter Tactics, a civilian-based selfdefense training company.
Tara Dixon Engel is a firearms and personal defense trainer, and an author. She too has a family background in firearms and a passion for teaching women how to protect themselves. (TARA DIXON ENGEL)