Stephen

I grew up in rural New England where spending Saturdays at the town dump  shooting rats with 22 rifles was the pinnacle of excitement (next only  to setting things on fire). I found public schooling somewhat more  effective than Ambien in neutering my desire to begin “Adulting” and  enlisted in the US Coast Guard during my senior year of High School. Over the course of my 21 year career I worked my way through the ranks  and retired as an O-3 with a degree in Criminal Justice. I transitioned  into Law Enforcement and completed a career at a large metropolitan  Sheriff’s Office in South Florida, walking away from a command staff  position when the internal politics and agency culture became intolerable. I maintained a passion for firearms and teaching and  obtained certifications as a Military, Law Enforcement and Civilian NRA  instructor. I enjoy the technical side of reloading precision ammunition for the various shooting sports and Ninjaneer my own unique, custom  swaged projectiles for various calibers. Finding the joys of shooting  USPSA & Steel Challenge later in life, I partnered with David in building Double Alpha Ranch to share that passion with others. I  currently serve the Ranch as Head Unicorn Wrangler and Director of Astonishing Things.

David

 Like most Georgia Southern Boys, my father raised me early with a Daisy BB gun and tin cans, then a 22-single shot for squirrels, or a 20 gauge that was much more efficient.  So, guns and shooting have been a lifelong part of my heritage.  In 2014 Steve introduced me to USPSA and Steel Challenge, and I wish I had discovered them a lot earlier in life.  Not only did this give me another reason to go throw lead, but as a law enforcement officer it provided me with the opportunity to hone my tactics and techniques.  It also fueled a dream that had been festering for quite some time.  Now after a 27-year career in law enforcement, with the help of family and friends, the dream is now a reality.  I have raised my children around guns while teaching them the importance of safely, and it has always given me joy to take them hunting or watch them shoot.  That is why one of my reasons for developing Double Alpha Ranch is to allow other parents to do the same.