This week, we’re going to build on last week’s accuracy test. We’ll use the same targets (3×5 cards) and follow the same program of six shots.
The difference is that this week, we’re going to see how far we can shoot and still maintain the necessary accuracy to hit that 3×5 card every time on demand. We’ll do this two-handed.
Start with a card placed horizontally at 7yd. Fire six shots at the card (for a Traditional Double Action pistol, that would be three pairs … DA/SA, DA/SA, DA/SA). You should get six hits.
Put up another card, this time at 8yd. Repeat the drill. If you get six hits out of six shots, put up a card at 9yd and go again. Every time you get 100% of your hits, move another yard out. There is no time limit, and no time pressure. The only thing that matters is accuracy. Go as slow as you need to. Focus on the front sight and press the trigger in a slow, consistent stroke.
Eventually, you’ll reach a distance at which you finally miss one or more shots. Take a break, rest your fingers and your eyes, and then try at that distance again. Slow down even more, pay even more conscious attention to what you are doing. See if you can’t wring just one more yard of performance out of yourself and your gun.
If you want, you can leave a comment to this post letting us know how far out you got on your first try!
Training with firearms is an inherently dangerous activity. Be sure to follow all safety protocols when using firearms or practicing these drills. These drills are provided for information purposes only. Use at your own risk.
15 yards
What a great and simple idea. I adapted it by using 4″ x 4″ sticky notes. (A little more expensive but I like the way the bright colors stand out.) I took a lady-friend shooting today for only her second session. We started with a .22 at ten feet which boosted her confidence and kept her excited. We continued and at one point she was shooting weak-hand a 1911 .45 and going 6 for 6 at 15 feet. I didn’t push the disance too much this session as wanted to keep fun factor high. For myself, I have incorporated the stickys in all my sessions and I can’t wait for the next drill/tip. Kudos to your site.
ChrisM — Sounds like you did a great job! Congrats on the excellent lesson.
We use the 3×5 card because it does a fair job of approximating an ocular window (the vulnerable area at the front of the skull). Also, bullet holes tend to be a little cleaner through the card stock compared with regular paper. Finally, it’s an easily found standard item that allows people across the world to compare results if they want to. While they’re a bit more expensive, you can find 3×5 cards in just about any color, including some “Neon Brite” versions.
Interesting concept. I will try this at my next session and see how I do…