John Chapman (JC):Thank you for inviting me to be a part of this.
Ive been a follower ofThe Armory Lifefor several years now.
I started my professional life in the U.S. Navy, where I was a Machinist Mate.
John “Chappy” Chapman, renowned SWAT officer and tactics trainer, brings a scientific and analytical approach to the science of violence.
I was told when I was new in the profession how important it is to always be training.
I still focus on my development in these critical skills, more than 30 years later.
TAL:It sounds as though your educational background has played a significant role in your work.
Chapman’s more than three decades of service as a law enforcement officer gives him a deep and well-informed understanding of what this demanding job entails.
Can you tell us some more about how it has directly impacted it?
JC:Yes, absolutely.
Formal education isnt important so you can promote in the ranks, in my opinion.
Chapman thinks that the 1911 DS Prodigy makes for an excellent pistol for LE use due to its performance and capacity. Image: Jeremy Tremp
The truly important factor in education for LEOs is in developing their full cognitive and creative capabilities.
The profession will wither and diminish if it is not being actively developed by all of us.
The law enforcement community must continue to expand its knowledge and ability as a profession, generation after generation.
The development of advanced training programs for both LE and civilian students is something that Chapman takes very seriously.
TAL:What led you into this LE career that has become your lifes work?
While in the U.S. Navy, Ill admit that I convinced myself I wanted to be a physicist.
I stuck with college because the physical sciences are a life-long fascination for me.
The Prodigy, shown here fitted out with a Surefire X300 weaponlight and Trijicon RMR optic, is Chapman’s current setup.
But, they are not a calling for me like law enforcement.
Can you tell us a bit more about your experience and development as a trainer?
JC:I was very lucky to encounter some phenomenal teachers early on in my career.
Chapman knew from an early age that a law enforcement career was what he wanted to do with his life.
This relationship inspired me to push myself, and Pats expert guidance led me to what I do today.
Later, I had the honor of teaching under Pat at EAG Tactical, full-time.
In a prior conversation we had, you mentioned CQB as an area of particular focus for you.
Can you tell us some more about this and your connection with that system?
More than two decades later, this CQB program is still evolving and growing.
I seem to catch these types of specific mental illness/drug issues in clusters.
I realized that all good leadership is personal, not general.
JC:Well, I have a few jobs right now.
I love my job.
I also have the opportunity to work as an industry consultant with firearms and night vision companies.
TAL:Do you have any favorite Springfield Armory firearms?
If so, which?
Have any played a role in your time in LE?
JC:My current favorite Springfield Armory firearm is the1911 DS Prodigy, specifically the 4.25 model.
We truly appreciate it.
JC:Thank you for having me.
I appreciate the opportunity.
Go to forum thread
Forge Tactical
1911 DSProdigyTM Series
