No one argues that it’s “better” than the original source. But frankly, there is not one discipline (including TMA) that doesn’t have some reliance on lineage for knowledge transference. Furthermore, sometimes the source is incapable of effectively transferring the knowledge, and someone else has to codify it on their behalf.
How many people do you know, that have taken life with street and improvised weapons? Blown a hole in someone with a revolver, contact shot? Made a critical immediate decision, in terms of situationational awareness? Abducted someone?—and can completely, clearly, articulate the process? Are you comfortable being taught by such a person?
Was Dr. Martin Fackler clueless about terminal ballistics, because he didn’t shoot people?
@Gerry Seymour