If your position only works on the barricade you train on, it’s already failed.

Published on November 21, 2025
Duration: 0:31

Instruction from USPSA Grandmaster Mark Smith emphasizes the critical need for versatile shooting positions applicable to any barricade, not just those found on a training range. He warns against relying on specific range barricade geometries, like the double-knee position, which may fail in real-world scenarios. Smith advocates for a neutral shooting load for maximum adaptability across diverse environments.

Quick Summary

USPSA Grandmaster Mark Smith stresses that effective barricade shooting requires positions adaptable to any obstacle, not just training setups. He warns that specialized positions like the double-knee may fail on real-world barricades (e.g., chain-link fences) and advocates for a neutral shooting load for maximum versatility.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Universal Barricade Positions
  2. 00:05The Double Knee Position
  3. 00:14Real-World Limitations
  4. 00:24The Neutral Load Advantage

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main principle of effective barricade shooting?

The core principle is to develop shooting positions that are universally applicable to any barricade, rather than mastering a single setup that only works on specific training structures. This ensures adaptability in real-world scenarios.

Why might a double-knee shooting position fail in practical application?

The double-knee position, while stable, is often too reliant on the precise geometry of training barricades. It may not provide adequate support or stability when encountering less predictable real-world obstacles like chain-link fences.

What type of shooting load does Mark Smith recommend for barricade shooting?

Mark Smith recommends a neutral shooting load. This approach ensures versatility, allowing the shooter to effectively utilize any structure capable of supporting a firearm, regardless of its specific design or stability.

How does Mark Smith define a failed shooting position?

A shooting position is considered failed if it is only effective on the specific barricade used during training. True effectiveness lies in a position's ability to adapt and function reliably across a wide variety of barricaded environments.

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