PORT TOWNSEND — The trigger is pulled and a flash of gunpowder escapes from the pistol barrel, not once but over and over again.
A deafening sound reverberates through the air as law enforcement officers 10 at a time line up to squint, aim and fire.
Empty shells fly and “tink” as they hit the ground, and the potent smell of gun powder fills the air.
It was Tuesday night and about 20 Jefferson County Sheriff’s deputies and Port Townsend Police officers are participating in the annual nighttime training session at the Jefferson County Sportsman Association shooting range on Gun Club Road.
The annual training session ensures that law officers’ low-light shooting abilities are honed.
“Things can get very confusing very quickly at night,” said Sheriff’s Deputy Brian Post, instructor for the session.
“Add the adrenaline and it’s best to have as much training as possible.”
Port Townsend Police Chief Conner Daily attended the training session and said it’s important because about two-thirds of officers’ shifts take place at night, so practicing night shooting scenarios is essential.
Law enforcement agencies conduct the session only once a year so neighbors are not frequently alarmed by nighttime gunfire.
As darkness began to fall, so did the raindrops. Law enforcement personnel lined up about 15 feet from white posters painted with several red circles.
They were instructed to practice various techniques, such as different ways to hold a flashlight while firing a gun.