I have had the fortune to train 4 times with the legendary Clint Smith at Thunder Ranch: Defensive Handgun, Defensive Revolver, Urban Rifle and High-Intensity Tactics. Clint not only taught me firearms for personal defense, but also situational awareness and how to avoid situations. As Clint says, “It is a thinking school, not a shooting school.” Along the way, he also taught me a few “creative phrases.” 🤣
It is Hubby and my 25th anniversary. I asked him what we should do to celebrate. I offered a cruise, a beach trip to Hawaii and a romantic weekend in the Wine Country. He refused them all; I didn’t dare offer a trip to a ghost town, he is my biggest supporter, but has little desire to explore. Then I asked if he wanted to train at Thunder Ranch with me, and he jumped at the chance.🤣
(Photo credit: Smith & Wesson Video)
Hubby had followed Clint for many years and looked up to him. With kids and a ranch, it was difficult for us both to be gone. People ask Hubby why he sent me to Thunder Ranch instead of attending himself. His priority was getting me up to speed on shooting. Each trip, I had an amazing training, loving every minute of it. Thunder Ranch became my extended family. Read about my Visits to Thunder Ranch: My experience as a lone female student.
I trained with Clint before the sale of Thunder Ranch, the week the sale was set to go through, and 6 months after the sale. A few weeks ago, Clint told me he was leaving Thunder Ranch and Oregon. I felt like my parents were getting divorced. I was heartbroken that his time at Thunder Ranch and Lakeview had come to an end.
On July 9, I headed to Thunder Ranch with Hubby. It happened that I was arrive the day before he left. Oregon. I am so thankful I got to see Clint and that Hubby got to meet the legend. He asked Clint to tell him one gun-related thing so he could say he was Clint’s last student ever at Thunder Ranch. Clint’s words, “Handguns don’t work well.”
After talking to both Clint and his amazing wife, Heidi, I am so excited for their new adventure! They already decided “when we come to visit,” not if, that Clint and I will explore historic sites in his area. Look forward to seeing both of you soon!
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