Real Improvement Starts Here
05/16/2025 | By: Daniel Schindler, Master Sporting Clays, Skeet, Trap and Wingshooting Instructor
And it’s not what you think.
“Many stumble over a truth—then walk away, leaving the good lesson behind.”
To keep a reader’s interest, a writer’s topics are endless. Truths, however, aren’t. And the value of this shooting truth—to you personally—asks for just a few honest minutes with me.
Opinions vs. Truths
Ten trillion words have been written trying to convince us to buy this gun, that choke, the “best” ammo, or the latest method. Most of those opinions have some merit.
But truths? They ask for a bit more investigation.
What Students Have Taught Me
Over the years, my students have taught me lessons I now pass on. Here’s a good example:
Many shooters—beginners and veterans alike—come to me looking for no-nonsense, 24/7/365 dependable truths. When they do, I tailor every lesson to match their abilities and goals.
Once the chambers are loaded, I quickly identify and address the unseen inconsistencies in their setup or swing. From there, we build on their strengths, making step-by-step adjustments that steadily close the gap toward more consistent performance.
Credit Where It’s Due
When the lesson ends, I always appreciate the kind words students share. But I make sure the most important factor in their improvement gets full credit:
- They made the decision to learn why they were inconsistent.
- They made the call for help.
The Real Difference-Maker
After countless lessons—whether for serious competitors or social shooters—one truth always surfaces:
The honest desire to learn is what makes the difference.
That intensity, that sincerity… it ultimately determines how far a student progresses. The more focused and truthful the desire, the greater the improvement. Always.
A Familiar Example
Just my opinion? Consider January 1.
Every year, gyms across the country fill with well-meaning newcomers. But a few weeks later, only the regulars remain. You’ve seen this. I’ve seen it. Intentions are easy. Discipline and determination are rare.
No Instructor Can Do It For You
No instructor in the world can make you a better shooter. Only you can do that.
If an instructor promises you more Xs or higher scores—guaranteed—they’re selling magic beans. A competent instructor won’t promise results. Instead, they’ll give you:
- Encouragement
- Precise instruction on what to do
- Step-by-step direction on how, when, and why
But the required truths, the inspiration, the tenacity, the patience to learn? That’s 100% on you.
How We Start Every Lesson
Before a lesson ever begins, I explain all this in our first discussion. I talk about how you’ll learn to:
- Build an X swing—on purpose, consistently
- Self-correct a miss—O to X, with one shell
- Understand your mental game
- Make practice actually work
And then, on lesson day, as we shake hands, I give you credit right there. Because by showing up, by deciding to be here, you’ve already started improving.
Today’s skill advancement? It’s guaranteed—by our mutual determination.
Final Word
Truth isn’t flashy. It’s not always easy. But it’s always worth it.
At Paragon, we care deeply about your success—and we form lasting relationships with those who walk this path with us. We're honored to be part of your journey.
Be safe, and I hope to see you out on the course.
We’d Love to Hear from You
What part of this message spoke to you most—or what would you like us to write about next?
Leave a comment below. We read every one.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Every second on the course is a chance to do something great.
If you're ready to stop missing the moments that matter—and start shooting with confidence—we’re here to help. At Paragon, we set every lesson up for your success.
Call (828) 693-6600 or visit ParagonSchool.com to book your time with Dan Schindler.
We look forward to helping you shoot your very best.
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About Dan Schindler
Dan Schindler is one of only 60 worldwide members of the Guild of Shooting Instructors (UK) and is one of the most highly respected Sporting Clays and Wingshooting Instructors in the US. Dan is an NSCA Level III Instructor (since 1995) and founded the Paragon School of Sporting with one goal in mind. Whether it be for the advanced competitor or providing the basics to the entry-level shooter, Paragon provides the simplest, most practical and most effective Instruction, Coaching and Mental Training for the Sporting Clays & Wingshooting enthusiast. Dan Schindler helps shooters alleviate a lot of their frustration by taking the mystery out of breaking targets, calling their own misses, and make their own corrections. Lessons are fun, enlightening and our clients learn to shoot better in minutes!
Dan Schindler's Books
"Recommended for shooters of all skill levels, Coaches, Instructors
and parents of youth shooters."
Take Your Best Shot (Book I), 3rd Edition is THE Gold Standard Primer It's all about the fundamentals, a requirement for good shooting. This book is used by high school and college shooting teams, recreational and competitive shooters from around the world. Solid, valuable, concise information that has helped thousands of shooters shoot more consistently with higher scores.
To The Target (Book II) Builds on the steps outlined in Book I. Emphasises Gun Management skills when the trap fires, creating a consistent, reliable, trustworthy swing.
Beyond the Target (Book III) is for shooters of all levels. It is filled with valuable information and clay target truths. It is entertaining and a culmination of three decades of Dan's life's work as a teacher, competitor, published writer, and much more.
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