Virtual Range SITE

Laser tag, laser pointers, laser printers — there’s no denying that laser technology has changed the way of the world, whether it’s for entertainment, teaching, or office work. What few realize is how drastically laser technology has altered the world of firearms training.

Most are familiar with the general “laser” most commonly found on self-defense guns. There are also drop-in lasers for the purpose of bore-sighting. Over the last few years, an abundance of ammo-free training aids and programs have surfaced, but do they work? One Northeast Ohio company has incorporated Laser Ammo’s smokeless range into training programs to benefit their students.

Steve Trommer, owner of Virtual Range SITE (VRS) in Medina, Ohio notes that using a simulator is especially beneficial to new shooters. “The greatest benefit for new shooters is learning to shoot for the first time, prior to live fire training,” Trommer said. “The simulated range allows for a safer environment for students and instructors so that we can focus on developing a proper grip, sight alignment and trigger squeeze, without the bang and recoil.”

This isn’t “laser tag” with guns, but a realistic training experience. Trommer and his business partner Will Evans have taken great care in selecting training tools that aren’t just “plastic guns.” Smart Firearms Training Devices have the shape, feel, and weight of the exact pistol they emulate. Recoil-enabled firearms use green-gas to augment the experience, mimicking the effects of recoil in a safe environment. Many will argue that nothing can compare to shooting live ammunition on the range, but in my opinion this comes close.

When I met Steve Trommer and Will Evans several years ago, I could tell how passionate they are about firearms training, especially self-defense. I must admit I was skeptical at first of a “virtual range.” Spending time on the simulator quickly put these fears to rest. As a high power rifle competitor, dry-fire is a key training tool, especially during winter months when it is often too cold to practice outside. Several competition-specific training systems exist including SCATT and Mantis which allow you to track movement on a target and gain more data from your shooting. While I believe these programs are superior for static competition, the benefit of Laser Ammo’s virtual range for practicing engaging moving targets and improving basic skills is unmatched.

The system comes with various programs that range from fun and games to timed practice sessions suitable for disciplines like IDPA and USPSA. If you want to shoot at whimsical turkeys, creepy clowns, or a dueling tree for some head-to-head competition, the virtual range has you covered.

Virtual Range SITE isn’t the only place that uses Laser Ammo Technology and the smokeless range is available to consumers, but their approach makes all the difference. “The simulation software allows our team of NRA and USCCA instructors to work with each individual new shooter in regard to the proper grip, trigger squeeze and sight alignment,” Trommer explained. “By working in close proximity using the simulator we can work in a much safer environment, making adjustments to each new shooter’s grip as they shoot at targets on the simulation screen.” The simulator records and displays the locations of shots fired, allowing students to see and understand how little things can make big changes downrange. A combination of static and moving targets allow students to practice sight alignment and target acquisition.

While the emphasis has largely been on new shooters, more experienced shooters can also benefit from this tool and from additional training. “We are able to build custom scenarios that can be developed for every level of shooter. There are some scenarios that allow us to select a skill level for beginner, intermediate and hard, which allows everyone an opportunity to shoot the same scenario based on their level of skill.” Trommer continued, “For the more advanced shooters, we do allow working from a holster as well as shooting from behind barriers. These training programs simulate IDPA and USPSA and other shooting professional organizations.”

I’ve been fortunate to join the VRS team of instructors, and have had the opportunity to see the difference made first hand. Laura Skwarski, one of VRS’s students, elaborated on the experience. “The virtual range was a perfect introduction to firearms for me. I’m inexperienced and a little intimidated knowing I’m holding something potentially deadly in my hands [and] afraid of making a mistake. The virtual range felt safe. When we moved on to the real shooting portion of the training, I felt more prepared.”

VRS offers a variety of classes, but concealed carry classes are the most popular, featuring use of force scenarios. These short videos place students in a situation that could happen in real life. It allows for in-depth discussion on when you should use deadly force and what can happen in the aftermath. The simulator reacts to shots fired. For example, if you decide to shoot someone coming at you with a knife, but don’t pay attention to what is beyond your target, the innocent bystander behind your attacker will also fall. The scenes aren’t gory and the acting isn’t the greatest, but the educational value is priceless. This type of training places you in a situation to hone critical decision-making skills in a stressful situation.

Besides training new shooters and helping those nervous around firearms to become more comfortable, I believe financial savings is perhaps the biggest benefit. Ammunition is expensive, especially now, if you can find it. Dedicated competitive shooters practice frequently, sending both lead and dollars downrange. This system allows you to train without live ammunition and place as many “rounds” downrange as you wish, maximizing the value of your next live ammo session. VRS does accept appointments for people wishing to use the simulator with or without additional training. “At the present time, using a Simulated Range versus visiting a live fire range, there is approximate cost savings of approximately $70.00 to $80.00 per person depending on the number of rounds fired and the caliber of the firearm that they’re shooting at the live fire range.”

In no way am I saying that virtual training surpasses live-fire training, just that it is an incredibly powerful tool to improve marksmanship and defensive skills. Though one may say I’m biased as I work with VRS, I can honestly say that I’ve observed many different instructors and classes, and am proud to be on their team. Extra care is taken to make sure each individual is comfortable. Steve and Will go out of their way to support students in the classroom, on the range, and after the class, should they choose to contact them. “The training that we offer here at the Virtual Range SITE utilizing our simulation range software does not replace live fire training,” Steve is careful to say. “But it is an especially valuable and affordable way for first-time and new shooters to work on skills and improve proficiency.”