Learning to Shoot: Inside a US Gun Range with Sandra, the Mexican American Assistant Nurse

Mexican American Nurse Sharpens Shooting Skills at Arizona Gun Range

Sandra, a Mexican American assistant nurse, is not your typical weekend warrior. Instead of hitting the gym or lounging by the pool, she spends her Saturday mornings at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility (BASF) in Phoenix, Arizona, honing her skills with a pistol.

The scene at BASF is like something out of a movie – surrounded by desert and towering cacti, shooters of all ages line up at concrete shooting tables, focused and determined. Sandra, with a.40 Smith & Wesson M&P Shield in hand, follows the steps: pull back on the slide, aim at the target, breathe out, and squeeze the trigger. The result? A perfect bullseye.

Safety is paramount at BASF, with ear defenders and goggles mandatory, and strict rules in place to ensure a disciplined and sociable atmosphere. Families gather at picnic tables, enjoying the camaraderie and shared passion for shooting sports.

John, a local gun shop owner, notes that business has been booming since the Covid-19 pandemic. With feelings of insecurity on the rise, gun sales in the US have seen a sharp increase, leading to a surge in interest in shooting sports and self-defense.

As Sandra packs up her gear and heads home, she reflects on the thrill of hitting her target and the sense of empowerment that comes with mastering a new skill. For her, shooting is not just a hobby – it’s a way to stay sharp and confident in an uncertain world.