Finding an AimPoint Instructor

[36chambers]

Looking to find an instructor to learn Aimpoint Express. Is a level 1 instructor (according to Aimpoint's website) fine for this? Is there any value in trying to find a level 2 or 3 instructor?

[iacas]

I’d go to a higher level if they’re available. They know more and have taught more.

[36chambers]

That's what I was thinking. Thanks!

[StuM]

I'm considering Aimpoint and have a few of questions.

1) Should I wait until Spring 2021 for the actual training session so I have more time to get outdoors and practice it after I am taught?  My fear is forgetting what I learn over the winter.

2) Is there value to getting the DVDs to view/study over the winter prior to taking a training session?

3) How many training sessions should I expect to attend to be able to use it effectively.

 

[DaveP043]

5 minutes ago, StuM said:

I'm considering Aimpoint and have a few of questions.

1) Should I wait until Spring 2021 for the actual training session so I have more time to get outdoors and practice it after I am taught?  My fear is forgetting what I learn over the winter.

2) Is there value to getting the DVDs to view/study over the winter prior to taking a training session?

3) How many training sessions should I expect to attend to be able to use it effectively.

 

I don't see a real reason to wait.  To me, the thing you might "forget" over the winter is the feel of different slopes, and you can refresh that portion on your own using a digital level.  The other part of the process, selecting your desired line, is relatively straightforward, I don't think you're likely to forget that stuff.  

I've never seen the DVD, so I can't comment on that.

I took a single session, maybe 2 to 3 hours, and I was able to use the system immediately.  My feel for slope did improve with practice, and I got quicker the longer I used it, but its not a long-term process like changing a golf swing.

[boogielicious]

I agree with @DaveP043. I’ve done two in-person session, one Mid-Point a few years ago, and a refresher with @iacas two years ago with Express. I also have the Express DVD. In person is better because you really get a sense of the technique. 

You can practice the slope read technique anywhere too, like your house. Nothing is level in my house, so its easy! 😜

[dennyjones]

Like the others have said, you'll benefit from taking Aimpoint sooner than later.   I have the DVDs and took an in person class.   The class was way more informative.   You'll learn what the slope percentages feel like and will be able to ask questions.   

[ChetlovesMer]

I know I've asked this before, but can Aimpoint be learned indoors?
I was thinking of a winter learning activity.

[dennyjones]

9 minutes ago, ChetlovesMer said:

I know I've asked this before, but can Aimpoint be learned indoors?
I was thinking of a winter learning activity.

If the facility has variable slopes available, you can learn Aimpoint indoors.    Most places, at least outdoors, that I've seen have at least 1%-4%  slopes to feel the difference.  

[billchao]

4 hours ago, ChetlovesMer said:

I know I've asked this before, but can Aimpoint be learned indoors?
I was thinking of a winter learning activity.

Sure. I know a place in downtown Erie you can learn it at 😉

[StuM]

I've emailed two AimPoint instructors and will start looking into getting a class.  One is a Level 1 since 2016 located @ 50 minutes away the other is Level 2 since 2013 and he is @ 1 hour 10 minutes away.  I guess for only 20 minutes longer drive I could do the Level 2.  

The shocker I see is that Michigan has only 3 in the state.  Two are Level 1 and One is Level 2.  I would have expected more.

Edited October 9, 2020 by StuM
Fix typo

[boogielicious]

1 hour ago, StuM said:

I've emailed two AimPoint instructors and will start looking into getting a class.  One is a Level 1 since 2016 located @ 50 minutes away the other is Level 2 since 2013 and he is @ 1 hour 10 minutes away.  I guess for only 20 minutes longer drive I could do the Level 2.  

The shocker I see is that Michigan has only 3 in the state.  Two are Level 1 and One is Level 2.  I would have expected more.

 

I had to drive about an hour for my first class. The only other instructors at the time were in private clubs.

[dennyjones]

2 hours ago, StuM said:

I've emailed two AimPoint instructors and will start looking into getting a class.  One is a Level 1 since 2016 located @ 50 minutes away the other is Level 2 since 2013 and he is @ 1 hour 10 minutes away.  I guess for only 20 minutes longer drive I could do the Level 2.  

The shocker I see is that Michigan has only 3 in the state.  Two are Level 1 and One is Level 2.  I would have expected more.

 

I drove about 1 hour to East Lansing for my Aimpoint class.  I was thoroughly impressed.    I've talked to the instructor in South Lyon.   He seems to know his stuff too.  I don't believe you can go wrong.   I hope the weather is decent when you take your class.

[StuM]

2 minutes ago, dennyjones said:

I drove about 1 hour to East Lansing for my Aimpoint class.  I was thoroughly impressed.    I've talked to the instructor in South Lyon.   He seems to know his stuff too.  I don't believe you can go wrong.   I hope the weather is decent when you take your class.

South Lyon is the Level 2 I mentioned.  He is at a private club, but hope he can still provide the lesson.