Live Podcast From The Range This Week Topic Stop Shooting Low!!

Published on February 21, 2024
Duration: 68:37

John G. Johnson, owner of a firearms training facility, provides 10 tips to address the common issue of shooting low with a handgun. He emphasizes the importance of proper grip, trigger control, stance, sight alignment, and follow-through. The instruction highlights how small errors in these fundamentals can lead to inaccurate shots, particularly shooting low or low-and-left for right-handed shooters. The video also touches on breathing techniques and understanding trigger reset for improved accuracy.

Quick Summary

To stop shooting low with a handgun, focus on a proper 'two thumbs forward' grip, smooth trigger pressing (not pulling), and a stable stance with weight forward. Ensure correct sight alignment with the front sight level to the rear sight and practice follow-through by maintaining aim after the shot. These fundamentals are key to improving accuracy.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Channel Overview
  2. 01:00Subscriber Request: Why Shooters Shoot Low
  3. 05:58Tip 1: Proper Grip
  4. 10:29Tip 2: Proper Trigger Control
  5. 14:35Tip 3: Proper Stance
  6. 17:12Tip 4: Sight Alignment
  7. 20:07Tip 5: Sight Picture
  8. 23:27Tip 6: Breathing Techniques
  9. 28:29Tip 7: Follow Through
  10. 32:31Tip 8: Trigger Reset Explained
  11. 35:31Understanding Trigger Travel
  12. 39:29Dry Firing Drills (Penny Drill)
  13. 43:11Tip 10: Practice & Finding an Instructor
  14. 48:39Recommended Videos & Drills
  15. 52:10Conclusion & Key Takeaways
  16. 54:14Viewer Comments & Q&A

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main reasons a shooter might be hitting low with a handgun?

Shooting low is often caused by improper grip, leading to thumb pressure or an angled firearm. It can also stem from poor trigger control, where the trigger is pulled rather than pressed smoothly. An unstable stance, incorrect sight alignment, and a lack of follow-through also contribute significantly to low impacts.

How can I improve my handgun grip to prevent shooting low or left?

Ensure a 'two thumbs forward' grip, with your strong hand high on the backstrap and your support hand filling the space. Avoid applying pressure with your thumbs against the firearm, as this can cause shots to drift left for right-handed shooters. A firm, consistent grip is foundational for accuracy.

What is the correct way to press the trigger for better handgun accuracy?

Instead of jerking the trigger, practice a smooth, gradual press using the center pad of your index finger. Visualize slowly pouring sand onto a scale. This controlled engagement minimizes firearm movement, allowing the shot to break cleanly and improving accuracy, especially for those who tend to shoot low.

Why is follow-through important in handgun shooting?

Follow-through means maintaining your sight alignment and aim on the target even after the shot is fired. Failing to do so, by 'prairie dogging' (lifting your head to see impact), disrupts the firearm's stability and alignment, leading to inaccurate follow-up shots and overall reduced precision.

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