Happiness is a warm gun

"It's just like any other sport. It helps me develop a presence of mind and deep concentration," says Daorung Kaewphutsa, 22, a Bangkok native who's studying Dutch in Belgium.

She tried shooting a couple weeks ago and returned to the range the very next week.

Target practice at the 2nd Cavalry Division is a bargain. Students don't have to pay for instruction, only for ammunition and handgun rental. The soldiers stationed at the base teach the basics for free.

They begin with familiarising pupils with different makes of handguns. Then they review their operation and safety procedures.

After they've demonstrated shooting positions, it's the students' turn to pull the trigger.

Stationary targets are erected 10 metres away while a handgun, 50 rounds of ammunition and earmuffs are placed in front of each student.

At this point, most first-timers are nervous. The instructor, Sgt Sutjarit Bua-Thieng, tells students to get a grip on themselves.

"You must get rid of your fear first. Because if you're anxious, your hands will shake and you'll miss the target," Sutjarit says.

Sutjarit suggests beginning with a .22-calibre handgun because it's lightweight, quiet and doesn't have much of a kick. It also has a comfortable grip.

The instructors teach students how to load their guns, hold them and aim at the target. Watching their novice charges closely, they give tips on posture and aim.

Rules are strictly enforced on the range. Wearing ear protection is mandatory, and no one can enter when other people are practising.

Students can also get training on .38-calibre and 9mm handguns at the range.

"I never thought of owning gun, but wanted to learn how they work. I want to be prepared in case someday I might need to use one," Daorung explains.

The 2nd Cavalry Division's firing range is open from 9am to 5pm daily. A one-year membership is Bt1,150 and is paid to the Royal Thai Army on Phaholyothin Road, near the Sanam Pao BTS station. Earmuffs are distributed free. Call (02) 243 0200-19 ext 95086 or (06) 768 3004 to make reservations.

Suwicha Chanitnun

The Nation