So after doing some work around the base, I find myself at the shooting range.
I've had a fair amount of training with the Sig P226 and the combat knife for survival situations, but with recent developments in the war the air force had acknowledged the need for pilots to carry a stronger personal defense platform for protection against enemy ground forces. Erusea's current rules of engagement normally don't call for killing downed pilots, but I still needed something to help me resist capture.
I consulted a firearms expert and listened to a short lecture before getting a list of options to chose from. I wanted something small enough to be comfortable to carry on long treks, while maintaining the range and accuracy of a carbine. I eventually chose the XM8 Compact, and brought one out onto the range for a quick training session.
Short, controlled bursts. I squeeze on the trigger, taking care not to jerk the weapon. Three bullets fly out of the muzzle and make a tight shot group on a target about 100 meters away. I continue to fire until the magazine is empty.
I take the target sheets back to a quiet area to study. As I'm marking the bullet holes, I can't help but smile at the results. No, I'm definitely not the best shot. Hell, I probably wouldn't even last more than a few seconds against armed and trained foot soldiers. But, at least I had a chance.
