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Who was Jeff Cooper?
Jeff Cooper was an American Marine, firearms instructor, writer, and the creator of the modern technique of handgun shooting. He was also an expert on the history and use of small arms, and the founder of the American Pistol Institute (API), later known as the Gunsite Academy. He was known for his advocacy of large-caliber handguns, especially the Colt 1911 and the .45 ACP cartridge. He also designed the Bren Ten pistol, based on the 10mm Auto cartridge and the CZ 75 design.
Cooper was born in Los Angeles in 1920 and graduated from Stanford University with a degree in political science. He received a commission in the United States Marine Corps (USMC) in 1941 and served in the Pacific theatre during World War II. He resigned his commission in 1949 but returned to active duty during the Korean War, where he claimed to be involved in irregular warfare in Southeast Asia. He left active duty again after the war and pursued a master’s degree in history from the University of California, Riverside. He also taught history at high schools and community colleges.
In 1976, he founded the API in Paulden, Arizona, where he taught shotgun and rifle classes to law enforcement, military, and civilian personnel. He also conducted on-site training for individuals and groups from around the world. He sold the firm in 1992 but continued living on the Paulden ranch until his death.
What is the modern technique of the pistol?
The modern technique of the pistol is a method of using the handgun for self-defense, developed by Cooper and his associates. It emphasizes two-handed shooting using the Weaver stance, a draw stroke, a flash sight picture, and a compressed surprise trigger break. It also defines several conditions of readiness for carrying a handgun, ranging from condition 4 (chamber empty, no magazine, hammer down, safety on) to condition 0 (round chambered, full magazine, hammer cocked, safety off).
The modern technique is considered to be a pragmatic and effective way of using the pistol for personal protection. It competes with and eventually supplants the once-prevalent one-handed shooting style. It also influences the design and development of handguns, ammunition, holsters, and accessories.
How did Jeff Cooper die?
Jeff Cooper died on September 25, 2006, at the age of 86. He had been suffering from various health problems, including congestive heart failure, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease. He passed away peacefully at his home in Paulden, surrounded by his family and friends.
According to his obituary, he was survived by his wife of 64 years, Janelle Cooper, his three daughters, Lindy Wisdom, Christy Hastings, and Parry Schuller, his son-in-law, James Schuller, his seven grandchildren, and his four great-grandchildren. He was also survived by his loyal dog, Rascal.
He was buried with full military honors at the Prescott National Cemetery in Arizona. His grave marker bears his name, rank, branch of service, dates of birth and death, and his motto: “DVC”, which stands for “Diligentia, Vis, Celeritas”, Latin for “Accuracy, Power, Speed”.
What is Jeff Cooper’s legacy?
Jeff Cooper is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the firearms community. He is credited with revolutionizing the way people use and think about handguns, rifles, and shotguns. He is also respected for his writings, which cover topics such as firearms, hunting, politics, philosophy, history, and culture. He authored several books, including The Art of the Rifle, Principles of Personal Defense, and To Ride, Shoot Straight, and Speak the Truth. He also wrote a monthly column for Guns & Ammo magazine, called “Cooper’s Corner”.
He is remembered for his wit, wisdom, and charisma, as well as his courage, integrity, and patriotism. He inspired generations of shooters, hunters, and warriors, who continue to follow his teachings and honor his memory. He also left behind a legacy of organizations, institutions, and awards that bear his name, such as the Jeff Cooper Legacy Foundation, the Jeff Cooper Distinguished Service Award, and the Jeff Cooper Memorial Shoot.
Jeff Cooper cause of death was not the end of his story, but rather the beginning of a new chapter. He lives on in the hearts and minds of those who knew him, loved him, and learned from him. He is a legend, a hero, and a friend. He is Jeff Cooper.
