Getting Started, with BJ Norris - Part 03 - Getting Ready for Your First Match

Published on July 30, 2019
Duration: 8:18

BJ Norris of Wilson Combat provides essential safety rules and basic skills for new competitive pistol shooters. Key takeaways include strict adherence to handling firearms only under range officer direction or in a designated safety area, maintaining finger discipline by keeping it outside the trigger guard during movement and reloads, and understanding the 180-degree rule. He demonstrates a fundamental draw stroke and reload technique, emphasizing safe practices throughout.

Quick Summary

For new competitive pistol shooters, safety is paramount. Always handle your firearm only when directed by a range officer or in a dedicated safety area free of ammunition. Maintain strict trigger discipline by keeping your finger outside the trigger guard during movement and reloads, and adhere to the 180-degree rule, never pointing your muzzle beyond 90 degrees from your body.

Chapters

  1. 00:06Introduction to Competitive Pistol Safety
  2. 00:15Key Safety Rules for Matches
  3. 01:09Handling Your Gun Safely
  4. 01:18The Safety Area Explained
  5. 01:48Where to Handle Ammo and Load Mags
  6. 02:34Finger Discipline During Movement
  7. 03:50Understanding the 180 Degree Rule
  8. 04:46Essential Skills: Draw and Reload
  9. 05:07Practicing the Draw Stroke
  10. 06:37Performing a Reload
  11. 07:36Finding More Training Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most important safety rules for a first-time competitive pistol shooter?

The most critical safety rules are to only handle your firearm under the direction of a range officer or within a designated safety area where no ammunition is allowed. Always maintain strict trigger discipline, keeping your finger outside the trigger guard when not actively shooting.

What is the 180-degree rule in competitive shooting?

The 180-degree rule means you must never point the muzzle of your firearm more than 90 degrees in any direction (up, down, left, or right) from your body. This ensures the firearm's direction is always controlled and safe.

What basic skills should a new competitor practice before their first match?

Before your first match, focus on mastering your draw stroke from the holster and your reload technique. Practicing these skills safely and efficiently in dry fire will build confidence and competence on the range.

Where can I find more information on competitive shooting techniques?

BJ Norris recommends seeking local training from experienced shooters at matches. For online resources, he suggests visiting his website, myguntips.com, which offers extensive tips and videos on competition shooting and defensive skills.

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