Merles Standards

This video features Ben Stoeger, a recognized expert in competitive shooting, discussing fundamental handgun techniques. He emphasizes the importance of grip stability and proper sight picture over potentially destabilizing cues like pointing thumbs. Stoeger advises focusing on a precise visual point on the target and allowing the body to naturally align with it, a method he learned from figures like Matt Pranka. The discussion also touches on the effectiveness of different training methods and the common pitfalls in firearms instruction found online.

This video demonstrates a technique for improving trigger control to achieve tighter shot groups. The instructor emphasizes using the tip of the finger for a precise trigger press and maintaining focus on the sight system throughout the shot. Proper trigger manipulation is shown to enhance pistol control and lead to more accurate shooting.

This video demonstrates two methods for stabilizing a pistol when shooting from cover, emphasizing a preferred technique that rests the forearm near the palm on the cover. The instructor highlights how this method distributes weight effectively, reduces wrist fatigue, and maintains hand dexterity for improved stability and precision in competitive shooting scenarios. The content is presented by a firearms instructor from USCCA.

John G. Johnson, a firearms instructor, emphasizes the critical importance of 'follow-through' in shooting accuracy. He explains that many shooters ruin their shots by lifting their head or dropping their arms immediately after firing to see the impact. This fundamental technique involves maintaining sight alignment and keeping the pistol level after the shot breaks, preventing inconsistency and low impacts. Practicing drills like the 'pause drill' can help develop this essential skill.

Instruction from Ben Stoeger, co-author of 'Baseline Dryfire' and 'Practical Shooting Training', emphasizes focused practice. He advises limiting drills to 2-3 core concepts per session, dedicating 10-20 repetitions to each for effective learning. This approach, whether dry-fire or live-fire, helps shooters develop skills efficiently, even with limited ammunition.

Ben Stoeger emphasizes precision over raw speed in target transitions. He advises focusing on a small spot on the target and letting the gun naturally follow your gaze, akin to using a mouse pointer. This technique, when mastered, allows for faster and more accurate transitions than 'driving' the gun or using physical cues like pointing thumbs. He suggests practicing for precision first, then gradually increasing speed while maintaining relaxation and control.

This video demonstrates a critical malfunction where the magazine drops during recoil, a common issue in competitive shooting. Ben Stoeger, a professional competitive shooter, highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing such failures. The guide provides steps to troubleshoot this specific problem, emphasizing safety and proper firearm handling.

This video demonstrates a critical safety incident: an uncommanded discharge of a Sig Sauer P320 during the re-holstering process. Expert analysis from Ben Stoeger highlights the visual evidence of the discharge originating from the holster, emphasizing the importance of constant vigilance and proper technique even when the firearm is supposedly "safe" in its holster. The incident underscores the need for thorough firearm inspection and immediate post-incident assessment.

Ben Stoeger, a professional shooting instructor, explains common misconceptions about red dot sights. He emphasizes that true proficiency comes from focusing on the target, not the dot itself. The guide details training methods, like occluding the optic, to develop this crucial skill, comparing it to the lifelong refinement needed for trigger control.

This comprehensive dry fire program, led by World Champion shooter Ben Stoeger, focuses on refining fundamental handgun skills. It includes a structured warm-up, detailed drills for draw stroke mechanics, efficient reloads (including strong and weak hand only), and positional shooting from kneeling. The program emphasizes precision and control, progressing to dynamic movements and transitions essential for competitive shooting.