Range Day! Two words that almost every shooter gets excited about. There is no doubt that going to the range is an exhilarating experience. We get to spend time with our firearm and put lead downrange. But most of us are not taking full advantage of this precious time. I use the word “precious” because most shooters do not have access to daily or weekly range visits. At best, most are lucky to get to the range monthly. When we do have the opportunity, it needs to be productive shooting, rather than simply static shooting you employ by blowing through endless expensive rounds. This article will cover five tips that, when utilized properly, that can make your range time more productive.
Prior to the start of your range day, have a plan outlined. Being sufficiently prepared ahead of time will ensure better time management giving you the most out of every minute. Create a “to do” list, so to speak. It’s just a list of specifics you are planning to work on during your range session. List the drills and the amount of time you want to spend on each. Next, estimate the required amount of ammunition needed for each drill. Doing so helps to safeguard against wasting or depleting your ammunition supply without getting everything done. Incorporate a checklist of all items needed. Number of rounds, targets, which gun(s) you plan on utilizing, staple gun, etc. Once everything is mapped out, check your bag to confirm that you have everything you need. By doing this not only will you be physically prepared but also mentally prepared.
The Drills: (The following drills are based on the knowledge that your gun sights have already been sighted in.)
- Figure-Eight Drill
Many shooters struggle with “moving sights” or what they deem as “shaky hands.” This occurs when you are pointed in, but you feel like your sights seem to be moving. When this happens, you tend to grasp the gun harder and tense up, but doing this causes you to shoot worse. You’re not seeing things, your sights actually are moving; however, they’re not moving as much as you think. The figure-eight drill helps you understand that slight movement does not truly affect the shot. It also shows that good trigger control can overcome the slight movement. To do this drill, set yourself up approximately 5 yards from the target. Aim in and move the front sight in a vertical figure-eight motion, about 6 inches wide, over the bullseye. As your sight comes across the bullseye, relax, breathe and take your shot. Stay pointed in and repeat, using five rounds.
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