Multi-time world and national shooting champion Julie Golob is an experienced shooting instructor, an outdoors woman, a US Army veteran, a published author, a wife and a mom.
1. We want to know more about you. Please give us a glimpse into your journey with firearms.
My father shared shooting sports with me at a young age and what started as a dad-and-daughter hobby evolved into a career. I first became a professional competition shooter with the Army Marksmanship Unit (AMU) Action Shooting Team and now represent Smith & Wesson, Federal Premium, Trijicon, CCW Safe and AOB Brands. Thanks to shooting and the firearms industry, I’ve competed on six continents and won over 50 world and national titles in action shooting competitions.
2. What two pieces of advice would you give someone interested in learning how to shoot or purchase their first firearm?
The advice I offer those interested in beginning their journey with firearms always begins with firearm safety. Learning the basic rules and practicing intentional firearm safety during any gun handling is paramount. With safe gun handling comes familiarity, confidence, and competence.
The second piece is to actively train to maintain and improve gun handling and shooting skills. Training looks different for different people and their goals. Whether for home and self-defense, competition, or hunting, time spent on the range and in dry fire training without ammunition is invaluable and important.
3. What is your favorite piece of firearm-related equipment that you own? Why do you like it?
My favorite piece of shooting gear is my PHLster Enigma. It’s a concealed carry belt and holster combination that has completely changed how and when I carry a firearm. As someone who made the compromise with off-body carry in a purse for too many years, with my Enigma, I not only have the peace of mind of on-body carry, it’s incredible the difference in comfort and my confidence in carrying a life-saving tool.
4. What was something someone told you (or that you read) that significantly influenced your life?
While shooting with the Army Shooting Team, I was constantly told I needed to shoot more like my teammates to be successful. My teammates were all men – taller, heavier and bigger than me. After a training day with legendary Rob Leatham, things suddenly changed. Rob showed me how to change my stance and play to my strengths as a smaller and lighter shooter. He explained how it was pointless to try to shoot like someone with bigger hands, who was much taller and had more mass and strength. It was a catalyst moment for me and my shooting.
There are a lot of trainers out there who will insist on their techniques for success, but the best not only teach you how to shoot better but are also able to show you what works for you as an individual.
5. What do you wish you knew about getting involved with firearms right from the beginning of your journey?
That’s such a tough question. My entry into the world of firearms and shooting differs from many other folks. Centered around competitive shooting and starting at a young age, I learned to shoot in a nurturing and supportive environment.
Because I competed in shooting sports, the guns and gear I used had specific features based on the divisions I competed in. It wasn’t until I was in my late twenties that I started to truly explore other firearms, including those beyond the ones used in competition. If anything, I wish I expanded my experience to shoot other guns earlier, things like lever actions, revolvers, bolt-action rifles and historical guns. I think you can learn so much about shooting when you try different firearms.
Cool. I’ve seen some of Julie’s videos.