Plates behind barrels — shoot through the cover, move up, or leave them

Published on February 5, 2026
Duration: 1:08

This video from Forgotten Weapons, featuring Ian McCollum, demonstrates advanced competition shooting tactics. It highlights strategies for engaging targets behind cover, the importance of movement, and analyzing performance outcomes. McCollum, an expert in firearms, shares insights on dealing with unintended target presentations and the critical role of proper sight zero for accuracy, even on an accurate rifle.

Quick Summary

In shooting competitions, when targets are behind cover like barrels, shooters must decide whether to shoot through the cover or move to a better position. Proper sight zero is critical; otherwise, long-range misses can incur significant penalties, even with an accurate rifle.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Course of Fire Overview & Cover Tactics
  2. 00:14Unintended Target Outcomes Behind Barrels
  3. 00:35Engaging Pop-Up Targets from Cover
  4. 00:41Match Performance, Penalties & Sight Zero

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the tactical options when engaging targets behind cover in a shooting competition?

Tactical options include attempting to shoot through the cover if a clear line of fire exists, or repositioning to a vantage point that allows for a direct engagement. The decision depends on the specific scenario, cover type, and competition rules.

Why is proper sight zero crucial in competitive shooting?

Proper sight zero ensures that your shots land where you aim, especially at longer distances. Failing to zero sights correctly can lead to missed targets, resulting in significant time penalties and a lower overall score in timed competitions.

What can cause steel plates to become difficult to engage after being shot?

Steel plates can become difficult to engage if they are struck in such a way that they are knocked into a position where they are obscured by cover, such as barrels. This creates a new tactical challenge for the shooter.

What is the significance of the VLTOR logo seen on the AR-style rifle?

The VLTOR logo indicates the brand of the firearm or a specific component, such as the magazine well. VLTOR is known for producing aftermarket parts and accessories for AR-15 platforms, often associated with enhanced ergonomics and performance.

Related News

All News →

More Range & Competition Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →