Faster Splits

Published on April 26, 2025
Duration: 5:24

This video addresses how to improve pistol split times, focusing on shooters experiencing slow shot-to-shot times (23-25s). Instructor Ben Stoeger emphasizes that the issue often stems from hand tension and recommends realistic dry-fire trigger reset practice and close-range live-fire drills like the Bill Drill to build speed and reduce tension.

Quick Summary

To improve pistol split times, focus on reducing hand tension. In dry fire, practice a full trigger press and reset. For live fire, perform Bill Drills at close range (e.g., 3 yards) to build speed and eliminate tension, as achieving the required speed is difficult when over-tensed.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Improving Split Times
  2. 00:15What are Split Times?
  3. 00:30Target Audience for Split Time Improvement
  4. 01:03Typical Split Times with Factory Triggers
  5. 01:40Impact of Trigger Weight on Splits
  6. 02:00Understanding Slow Split Times (23-25s)
  7. 02:40The Root Cause: Hand Tension
  8. 03:05Dry Fire Technique for Trigger Reset
  9. 03:33Realistic Dry Fire vs. Ineffective Practice
  10. 03:56Live Fire Drills for Speed and Relaxation
  11. 04:16The Bill Drill at Close Range
  12. 04:39Why Close Range Works for Tension
  13. 04:53The Cost of Live Fire Practice
  14. 05:03Getting Close Enough to Go Fast
  15. 05:11Conclusion: 3-Yard Bill Drills

Frequently Asked Questions

What are pistol split times and why are they important?

Split times measure the duration between consecutive shots fired from a pistol, typically in hundredths of a second. Improving split times is crucial for competitive shooters and those seeking faster follow-up shots in defensive scenarios, directly impacting overall stage times and accuracy.

What is the main cause of slow pistol split times for beginners?

The primary cause of slow split times for shooters experiencing times around 23-25 seconds is often excessive hand tension. This tension, particularly in the fingers of the dominant hand, hinders the ability to quickly and independently manipulate the trigger for rapid follow-up shots.

What dry-fire exercises can improve pistol split times?

In dry fire, focus on a realistic trigger press and reset. Press the trigger firmly, release it completely off the trigger, and then press it again. Avoid simply touching the trigger; ensure each shot involves a full cycle to accurately simulate live fire and build speed.

What live-fire drills are recommended for improving split times?

Performing Bill Drills at a close range, such as 3 yards, is highly recommended. This drill helps shooters eliminate hand tension and loosen up, allowing for faster trigger manipulation. The speed required to make the time for this drill prevents over-tensing.

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