-- Advertisement --

Like most of the Rapid Response Teams in the Judea region (not to mention other special security forces), I’ve done part of my training at the Caliber 3 shooting range in Gush Etzion.

Let me tell you, compared to most IDF training bases, this place is heaven. Soda machines, bathrooms, running water, concrete floors, air conditioned classrooms, and ceiling netting (for shade on the range). You couldn’t ask for a nicer outdoor range. (And if you’ve only ever shot in an indoor range, you’re in for a surprise, it’s a completely different experience).

Anyway, the owners of the Caliber 3 Shooting Range have opened a new introductory training program for the general public.

They are offering a special 2 hour package for tourists visiting Israel (or you wanna-be settlers in Beit Shemesh).

The package includes explanations of the security situations Israelis face, particularly in the settlements, discussions with counter-terrorism experts, examples of different counter-terrorist techniques, and of course the fun part - Shooting pistols and M-16s.

The program is open to individuals, groups, and families. You can see from the photos on their site that everyone is having a great time.

Of course they’re having a great time. They shooting M-16s and Glock pistols. (All shooting is supervised by trained instructors, most are graduates of various special forces units).

Why do you think half the people on the RRTs sign up in the first place?

So head on over to the Caliber 3 website and learn first hand what it is like to protect a settlement and fight a terrorist.

Cool.