Firearms Training Drill of the Week: 4&1 Drill

John Johnson, owner of a firearms training facility in Southwest Florida, introduces the '4 & 1 Drill' designed to enhance trigger engagement, sight alignment, and overall trigger control. This drill involves dry-firing four times to take slack out of the trigger, followed by one live shot, repeated five times per target for a total of 25 rounds. It emphasizes pressing the trigger rather than pulling it and aims to improve accuracy by focusing on precise trigger manipulation and weapon stability.

Quick Summary

The 4 & 1 drill is a firearms training exercise focused on improving trigger control and sight alignment. It involves four dry-fire repetitions to master trigger slack, followed by one live shot, repeated five times per target for a total of 25 rounds. This method helps shooters press the trigger accurately and consistently, enhancing overall marksmanship.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the 4 & 1 Drill
  2. 00:29What is the 4 & 1 Drill?
  3. 00:42Target Setup for the Drill
  4. 01:06Starting Distance and Repetitions
  5. 01:12The Role of Dry Firing
  6. 01:29Understanding Trigger Engagement
  7. 01:43Aim Small, Miss Small Concept
  8. 01:53Drill Execution: 3 Yards, 5 Rounds
  9. 02:13Total Rounds and Concentration
  10. 02:26Pressing vs. Pulling the Trigger
  11. 02:39The Drill as a Skill Assessment
  12. 02:44Marrying Weapon and Eye
  13. 02:55Focus on Trigger Slack Removal
  14. 03:07Level Weapon Principle
  15. 03:13Proper Target Placement
  16. 03:24Practice and Progression
  17. 03:36Defensive Context of the Drill
  18. 03:41Vital Triangle and Target Size
  19. 03:54Focus on Aiming Intent
  20. 04:07Identifying Trigger Manipulation Issues
  21. 04:13Pistol Accuracy vs. Shooter Control
  22. 04:18Points of Contact and Grip Strength
  23. 04:36Grip, Stance, and Trigger Control
  24. 04:42Integrating the Drill into Training
  25. 04:52Self-Assessment and Feedback
  26. 05:08Closing Remarks and Safety
  27. 05:14Merchandise and Support
  28. 05:31Supporting Small Businesses
  29. 05:54Final Safety Message

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary benefit of the 4 & 1 firearms training drill?

The 4 & 1 drill is primarily designed to enhance trigger control and sight alignment. By dry-firing four times before each live shot, shooters learn to take slack out of the trigger, leading to a more precise and controlled press, ultimately improving accuracy.

How should a shooter set up for the 4 & 1 drill?

For the 4 & 1 drill, set up a target with four small dots, approximately 3 yards away. These dots can be made with a marker or from discarded shoot-n-see targets. The small aiming points challenge precision and focus on trigger manipulation.

What is the recommended execution of the 4 & 1 drill?

The drill involves performing four dry-fire repetitions to focus on trigger slack and sight alignment, followed by one live shot. This sequence is repeated until five rounds are fired on the target. The entire drill is typically performed for five sets, totaling 25 rounds.

How does the 4 & 1 drill help identify shooting errors?

The 4 & 1 drill acts as a diagnostic tool. If shots consistently impact lower than the intended aim point, it often indicates the shooter is pulling the trigger rather than pressing it straight to the rear, a common error this drill helps to correct.

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