Practical Shooting After Dark EP 85

Published on January 23, 2020
Duration: 28:48

This episode of Practical Shooting After Dark features a discussion on competitive shooting strategy, focusing on avoiding unnecessary complexity in stage planning and execution. Ben Stoeger, Tyler Turner, and Matt Hopkins explore the pitfalls of 'gaming' stages, emphasizing that simpler, more direct approaches often yield better results. They also discuss the ideal number of stages for different levels of USPSA matches and share personal training insights.

Quick Summary

Avoid overcomplicating USPSA stages by 'gaming' them. Focus on straightforward plans with simpler shots and efficient movement for more consistent high scores. Extreme leans and complex maneuvers often hinder accuracy and speed, making stable, direct execution more effective. Experimenting with dry-fire across platforms highlights transferable grip and sight acquisition cues.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Guests
  2. 00:31Upcoming Classes & Book
  3. 02:26Gaming USPSA Stages
  4. 06:17Shooting on the Move vs. Leaning
  5. 09:56Minimum Stages for USPSA Matches
  6. 13:39USPSA Minimum Stage Recommendations
  7. 15:33Market Forces in Match Design
  8. 16:33Ben Stoeger's Dry Fire Experiment
  9. 20:05Advice on Cross-Platform Training
  10. 21:40Should You Shoot Nationals 'As a Goof'?
  11. 24:44Dan Wesson DWX Update
  12. 27:31SHOT Show Plans
  13. 28:30Closing Remarks

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best strategy for approaching USPSA stages?

The best strategy for USPSA stages is often to avoid overcomplicating them. Instead of trying to 'game' the stage with complex shortcuts, focus on a straightforward plan that involves simpler shots and efficient movement. This approach typically leads to more consistent high scores than attempting to circumvent the stage designer's intent.

Why is shooting from a lean considered difficult in competitive shooting?

Shooting from an extreme lean is significantly more difficult than from a stable, squared-up stance. It's often compared to standing on one foot and introduces instability, making the shooting process slower and more complex. This can negatively impact accuracy and speed, even if it appears dynamic.

What is the recommended minimum number of stages for USPSA matches?

For USPSA matches, a Level 2 or 3 match should ideally have at least 8-10 stages, with 10-12 being better for a single day. Area matches should aim for 14-16 stages, and Nationals should feature around 24-25 stages to thoroughly test a shooter's skills across various challenges.

What are the key takeaways from experimenting with dry-fire across different firearm platforms?

Experimenting with dry-fire across different firearm platforms reveals that fundamental cue points are transferable. Consistent grip placement, such as the thumb position on the firing hand or the magazine base pad, is crucial. This practice helps identify core skills independent of specific equipment, improving overall adaptability.

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