Hailing from Soldotna, Alaska, Kita Busse is an action shooter and instructor who places an emphasis on training smart and economy of movement. She also works hard to understand how each of her students learn so she can better teach them. Learn what Busse keeps in her range bag.
What are your first memories of handling a firearm?
The first firearm I handled was an M16 rifle. It was during basic training for the Army when I was 17 years old.
Tell us how you began in competition shooting.
In my 30s, I began competing to help me become a better movement coach.
Please share with us some of your major accomplishments.
I have a bachelor’s degree in science. A few years ago, I started my own business—180 Firearms Training—and now I travel the world coaching movement and vision training for practical shooting. I wrote a book called “Smart Move: Economy of Motion for the Shooting Sports,” which has been well received. Right now, I’m in the process of finishing the next book in the series called “Train Smart: Self-Coaching for Practical Shooting.” In addition, I host the 180FT Podcast, which you can find on YouTube and Spotify.
What firearms and other gear do you use for competition?
I shoot a CZ Shadow 2 Orange for USPSA and IPSC. My carry gun is a SIG Sauer P365. I am sponsored by the IPSC Store based out of Estonia. Super Vel Ammunition has supported me for the last few years through some very difficult times to obtain ammo. I would not be where I am without them.
Tell us about your range bag and what you carry in it besides your firearms?
Gauge Outfitters worked with me to design my own 180 Firearms Training range bag with a high vis interior. It is completely made in the United States, down to the last thread. The pockets zip all the way down, making it easy to find what I am looking for, in addition to the high vis interior and removable hook-and-loop dividers. It also has a fold out mat included for gun cleaning, going prone or catching brass. Plus, there is a leather patch with my logo made by Mean Gene Leather.
Besides my firearms, I also keep the following in my range bag: magazines, ammunition, Liberty Gun Lubricant, a bore snake, a magazine brush, pistol grip, snacks, a Gerber multi-tool, Hunter’s HD Gold shooting glasses and work gloves.
What do you do in your free time?
Spending time with family and friends is very important to me. I enjoy travel and good food. Also, I am politically active in protecting our Second Amendment freedoms.
What would you tell someone interested in finding out more about your sport?
Go to the USPSA website or the Shooting Sports USA Coming Events section to find a match near you. Go and observe. Do not be afraid to ask questions.
Any tips for the new shooter?
Take a class. Don’t invest a lot of money in guns and gear. Use what you’ve got until you have more experience. Then spend the money after you have a better idea of what you want.
Check out Kita Busse’s podcast on YouTube and Spotify. You can also visit her website at 180firearmstraining.com.
