Firearms

[bobgaggle]

I've been searching the older threads for this, but haven't found anything about it.

I am currently in school for Theatre with a concentration in Technical Direction. Given that this field requires a specific skill set, and jobs aren't always easy to come by, I've been thinking about expanding my skills. I have always been a gun nut and as a result I know quite a bit about firearms. While I've had limited training in the field of firearms, I want to get into firearms in theatre, and possibly film.

Does anyone know of any training or companies that specialize in "firearm wrangling" that I can research?

 

[Kelite]

I've been searching the older threads for this, but haven't found anything about it.

I am currently in school for Theatre with a concentration in Technical Direction. Given that this field requires a specific skill set, and jobs aren't always easy to come by, I've been thinking about expanding my skills. I have always been a gun nut and as a result I know quite a bit about firearms. While I've had limited training in the field of firearms, I want to get into firearms in theatre, and possibly film.

Does anyone know of any training or companies that specialize in "firearm wrangling" that I can research?

Since safety is the absolute key word whenever firearms are involved, whether they are functional or merely non-functional props, it would be a good idea to get connected with a range officer in your area first. While you may be well aware of the safety rules and guidelines as a firearm enthusiast, please take time to be briefed by an authorized range officer. You may find a local accredited instructor simply by calling 1-800-672-3888 and inquire.

Secondly, prop masters well versed in firearm safety are in a somewhat niche group, as you've already mentioned. Getting into the 'circle' of knowledgable firearm prop masters will undoubtedly open some doors for you.

Several firearm prop masters turn up within a quick Google search, including Tactical Edge Group , David L. Glazer, Prop Master and Firearm Safety | Weapons Specialists | Weapons Specialists, LTD.

Let us know how it goes for you!

 

[Van]

I'll check in with our Fight Master for the show that is currently in Production Jonathan Cole of Revenge Arts. He is Highly acredited and should have some insights for you. I know there are a lot of classes offered all over, last summer there was a meeting in Las Vegas where several weeks of training were held. There is a big group session in Seattle right now, this week and the last three weeks, training stunt men and choreographer to get them trained up on all sorts of weapons.
Take it from a guy who grew up with a shooting instructor as a father there are a lot more, and different, rules for stage weapon safety.

 

[MPowers]

If you are interested in being a firearms wrangler, don't limit yourself. Think about being a Weapons wrangler. That means doing some history research about black powder weapons, including cannon, mortar et. al. learn about bladed weapons and bows and .....learn them all. All knowledge is good. For example, a number of years ago I became weapons wrangler for a large outdoor production called "Young Washington" about George Washington during the formative years and the start of the French-Indian War. I had to devise a method of discharging 180 black powder rounds a night, reliably, repeatably, in front of a proximate audience, in spite of weather, humidity, mist, etc. I really learned the what and why of the old saying "Keep your Powder Dry!". I had to devise a method of firing 5 cannon rounds in all kinds of weather. I had to devise and build the cannon mortars and the firing device. I had to reload the musket rounds and cannon rounds nightly. I think I may have discovered the origin of flash paper, I learned about paper cartridges, ......! In other words, don't limit yourself. Learn as much as possible about all weapons, the methods of manufacture, how to do the machining and lathing, how to make black powder and various types of flash powder and fireworks. Learn about loading and reloading rounds, even if you don't wind up making your own weapons, gerbs, lifts, etc. you will know how and what is involved in doing them. This will allow you to plan and devise a good and safe weapons plan for any production you work on. Hope this helps.

 

[Kelite]

... weapons wrangler for a large outdoor production called "Young Washington" about George Washington during the formative years and the start of the French-Indian War.

That is ironic, as I was involved in a History Channel film regarding Braddock's Defeat at the battle site near Farmington PA, and a 20 minute feature that was filmed at Mt. Vernon and plays within their IMAG theater.

History is fun to watch, but more fun to DO.