Coach And Instructor Spotlight
RSWC: Buz Mills, Gunsite Academy, NRA BOD
RSWC: Buz Mills, Gunsite Academy, NRA BOD
✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Prescott, Arizona
At the recent NRA Annual Meeting, I had the privileged opportunity to engage in a detailed conversation with Buz Mills, the owner of Gunsite Academyan institution synonymous with premier civilian firearms training founded by the legendary Jeff Cooper. My initial encounter with Buz at a previous NRA event was brief, but this time, an organic discussion evolved over dinner. His willingness to share an hour of his time amidst the hectic schedule of the conference was deeply appreciated. Buz Mills hails from a background rich in shooting and hunting traditions, reminiscent of a time when handling firearms was a rite of passage for many young Americans. He recounted how he learned to shoot in the Boy Scouts, and that owning a .22 rifle was almost commonplace in his youth. The tales of those days are framed against the backdrop of a changing American landscape, where hunting and shooting culture are often challenged by modern societal dynamics. Gaining a foothold in the firearms training industry, Buz acquired Gunsite Academy in 1999 and quickly set the course for its expansion. Under his leadership, Gunsite has dramatically increased in size from 165 acres to over 3,200 acres. Next year marks a significant milestonethe 50th anniversary of the academy. This beloved institution offers a plethora of courses not just in basic pistol and rifle marksmanship but includes advanced training in tactics, responding to active shooter situations, and even knife courses. Their recent expansion includes the addition of their fifth building, a testament to continued growth and increasing demand for high-quality firearms education. Buz speaks passionately about the history and evolution of the NRA, noting its original establishment to foster shooting skills following the Civil War. However, he criticizes recent organizational tactics, particularly their approach to dissent at member meetings, which he claims drove away approximately 40% of the NRA's membership. Buz has been actively involved in efforts to reform the Board of Directors, pushing for diverse members equipped with the skill sets necessary to steer the NRA back to its core mission: advocacy and education around the Second Amendment. At this pivotal moment, the NRA finds itself under scrutiny and in a period of transition. Buz, having served multiple terms on the NRA's Board of Directors, is part of a growing reform movement within the organization. This year, an increased number of reform-minded candidates are on the ballot, representing a shift towards more accountability and transparency within the NRA. Buz emphasized the longevity of this organization; with over 150 years of history, he believes it's critical to restore its reputation and mission to facilitate firearms education and advocacy for another 150 years. Throughout our conversation, wisdom flowed from Buzs extensive experiences within the firearms community. Insights such as, "I have never been to a class that I didnt learn something positive that I can put in my toolbox," resonate deeply in today's training landscape, highlighting the enduring value of education and adaptation in firearm practices. As this discussion unfolded, there was no shortage of reflective moments concerning the challenges ahead for the NRA and the broader firearms community. Issues of increased urban crime and the growing acknowledgment of women as a significant demographic in firearm ownership and training feature prominently in dialogues going forward. Amidst these trends, Buz's narrative is a reminder of the foundational values of respect and responsibility in firearms ownershipa necessary discourse in todays rapidly evolving societal context. Early reports suggest that grassroots movements within organizations like the NRA demonstrate a hunger for reconnection with members and a commitment to address the internal criticisms that have surfaced in recent years. This is a pivotal timefor both the NRA and Gunsite Academyas they strive to shape the future of firearms training and advocacy in the U.S. In summation, the mission ahead is clear yet fraught with complexity: to navigate the fine line between tradition and modernity in the firearms community. As the landscape shifts, the leadership of key figures like Buz Mills could determine the trajectory for organizations enshrined in the heritage of American shooting culture.