How I get up to speed with a new gun

Published on March 20, 2025
Duration: 6:08

Joel Park outlines a methodical approach to familiarizing oneself with a new pistol, emphasizing marksmanship fundamentals. The core drill involves shooting 'doubles' to assess grip, trigger control, and recoil management, with a focus on high accountability and pinpoint accuracy. This process helps identify any fitment issues or areas for improvement before moving to more complex drills.

Quick Summary

When getting up to speed with a new pistol, focus on marksmanship fundamentals. Start with a few rounds to feel the trigger and recoil, then perform 'doubles' to assess grip, sight tracking, and shot grouping. Aim for high accountability with accurate shots and analyze your grip and trigger press to identify areas for improvement.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Listener Question: New Pistol Familiarization
  2. 00:16Initial Assessment: Trigger and Recoil Feel
  3. 00:33The Doubles Drill Explained
  4. 00:49Assessing Grip and Sight Tracking
  5. 01:16Personal Experience with Walther PDP
  6. 01:30Predictive vs. Reactive Shooting
  7. 01:39High Accountability Shooting Drill
  8. 02:04Independent Trigger Press
  9. 02:14Comped Slide Example
  10. 02:38Marksmanship Fundamentals are Key
  11. 02:46Rapid Fire Shooting into One Target
  12. 02:50Dry Fire vs. Live Fire Drills
  13. 03:09Best Use of Ammunition on a New Gun
  14. 03:12Slow Group Shooting for Zeroing
  15. 03:22Reactive Shooting for Accuracy
  16. 03:36Doubles Drill Distances
  17. 03:53Rapid Fire Group Size Goal
  18. 04:03Attaching Cause and Effect
  19. 04:31Assessing Gun Fit and Grip Needs
  20. 05:05Trigger Reach and Shoe Considerations
  21. 05:26Marksmanship at Accountable Speed
  22. 05:37Advanced Drills Post-Familiarization
  23. 05:44Live Ammo for Marksmanship
  24. 05:50Viewer Questions and Future Videos

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus when first shooting a new pistol?

The primary focus should be on marksmanship fundamentals. This includes shooting a few rounds to feel the trigger and recoil, then moving to 'doubles' to assess grip, sight tracking, and shot grouping for accuracy and control.

What is the 'doubles drill' and why is it useful for a new gun?

The 'doubles drill' involves shooting two rapid shots consecutively. It's useful for a new gun because it helps you quickly assess how you grip the firearm, how the sights track, and how controllable the recoil is, all while maintaining accuracy.

How much ammunition should be used for initial familiarization with a new pistol?

The bulk of live ammunition should be used for marksmanship. This includes slow group shooting to zero the firearm (20-30 rounds) and then rapid-fire shooting drills to build speed and accuracy, rather than extensive gun handling practice.

What should a shooter look for when assessing a new pistol's fit?

When assessing fit, look for how the frame feels in your hand, if it provides adequate traction, and if there are any areas that need modification like skateboard tape or different grip panels. Also, check trigger reach and if the trigger shoe allows for a straight rearward press.

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