Do Retro Vietnam Techniques Still Work?

Published on October 31, 2023
Duration: 11:11

This guide details the instinctive hip firing technique, as demonstrated by retired Navy SEALs Dorr and Coch. Originally used in Vietnam for extremely close engagements, the technique emphasizes pointing the firearm using body alignment rather than traditional sights. While dated, the instructors confirm its effectiveness in specific, high-stress, close-range scenarios.

Quick Summary

Retired Navy SEALs demonstrate that retro Vietnam-era instinctive hip firing techniques can still be effective. This close-quarters method, used for rapid engagement at feet-not-yards distances in jungle environments, relies on body alignment and pointing the thumb along the handguard rather than traditional sights.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Vietnam-Era SEAL Techniques
  2. 01:11Hip Firing vs. Shoulder Firing
  3. 02:56Technique Breakdown
  4. 06:34Pointman Course Live Fire
  5. 08:08Training Manuals and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is instinctive hip firing?

Instinctive hip firing is a close-quarters combat technique where the shooter points the firearm towards the threat using body alignment and muscle memory, rather than traditional sights. It was used historically for rapid engagement at extremely close distances.

Why was hip firing used in Vietnam?

Hip firing was crucial in the dense jungles of Vietnam due to extremely close engagement distances. It allowed for immediate response without the time needed for traditional aiming, making it effective for ambushes and sudden encounters.

Can retro Vietnam techniques still be effective today?

Yes, according to retired Navy SEALs, while dated, techniques like instinctive hip firing remain effective for their specific niche applications, particularly in high-stress, close-quarters scenarios where speed is paramount.

What are the key elements of the hip firing stance?

The hip firing stance involves squaring off to the target, keeping weight forward, and using the thumb along the handguard as a guide to instinctively direct the barrel towards the threat.

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