Four things I want to learn (and use in my writing)

Last week I blogged about using real life in place of research. So I figured that I’d write about things I’d like to write about but need to research first.

1. Archery – I’ve always been fascinated with archery, and I recently learned that I can take lessons not to far from my house for a pretty reasonable price. I may have also researched where I can buy my own equipment (hint, nowhere near my house). Bows and arrows seem like an ideal weapon for survivors in a zombie novel. They can also be just as useful in historical fiction. 
2. World War I – When it comes to world wars, there’s a whole lot to be found online about World War II. Not so much about World War I. There are a couple free, online classes on the subject that caught my eye a few months ago. It’s just a matter of finding time in my schedule. 
3. Security/Police/Military Protocols  – I really enjoy writing characters in the military or who work as security personnel. While I’m pretty familiar with EMS/Fire first responders, I’m not too knowledgeable about law enforcement. The Sisters in Crime writing organization puts on a police academy for writers to learn from professionals. I’m hoping to go to it in the next few years.
4. Self-Defense – This goes hand-in-hand with #3. I participated in karate years ago, but I’ve forgotten most of it. So I’d like to learn practical techniques for self-defense that my characters can use. It’ll be a great way to get me away from my desk and help my writing too. What kind of research have you done? Is there anything you’ve been itching to learn?