Conflict simulations done right, with skilled and experienced role-players, non-lethal subcaliber marking rounds and all the toys, is about as close as you're going to get to a real rubber meet the road experience. But for shooters, the video simulators can come close. Movement is limited, you can't think too far outside the box and you pretty much are limited to move, talk or shoot (pistol whipping the screen would be costly...)
Our agency had a Range 3000. Programable, cool. Fun.
I had no idea that anything like it was available to civilians. I was wrong.
In the ongoing quest for a place to hold some regular classes, Mike McDonald of Threat Solutions introduced me to Ryan Tuttle of Threat Dynamics. Threat Dynamics is a business out in Hillsboro that uses video graphics and safe weapon simulators to run anyone, officer or civilian, through scenarios ranging from gang ambushes to active shooters to just witnessing a drug deal between guys who don't like witnesses.
It was a blast, but I am woefully out of practice-- my one hostage shot was okay but should have been down and left at least an inch. I actually missed a long range shot. Use of cover was okay (though it took a minute to get used to the 300 degree screen and what was and wasn't cover.)
Like I said. Coolness. If you're a shooter, especially a range shooter, definitely go play. I can't evaluate Ryan's coaching, though from the scenarios I played he has an excellent eye for bad guys, but I suspect it's pretty good. More on that when and if I get a chance to see him teach.
Heee. Heee. Heee. The modern world has the BEST toys.