OST (On-The-Spot) Training: Student Assessments and Throwing the Gun

Published on March 21, 2021
Duration: 22:16

Instructor Mike explains the common shooting error of 'throwing the gun,' where shooters anticipate recoil, causing shots to go low. He emphasizes mastering the basics, particularly smooth trigger control and trigger reset, to avoid this. The video highlights how early childhood 'shoot 'em up' play can lead to ingrained jerking motions that persist on the range. Tools like laser training aids are recommended to help identify and correct these fundamental technique flaws.

Quick Summary

Shooting low is often caused by anticipating recoil, leading to 'throwing the gun.' Instructor Mike emphasizes mastering smooth trigger control and trigger reset, and understanding that recoil occurs after the bullet leaves the barrel. Utilizing tools like laser training aids can help identify and correct these fundamental technique flaws for improved marksmanship.

Chapters

  1. 00:57Introduction with Instructor Mike
  2. 01:30Recent Range Session Observations
  3. 03:12Shout Out: South County Guns
  4. 05:07Shout Out: Eagle Sports Range
  5. 05:43Identifying the "Throwing the Gun" Issue
  6. 06:36Mastering the Basics: Crawl, Walk, Run
  7. 06:54Demonstrating "Throwing the Gun"
  8. 07:36Front Sight Dip Analysis
  9. 08:03Student and Fiancé Target Comparison
  10. 08:43Failure as Part of Success
  11. 09:22Revisiting Front Sight Dip
  12. 10:07Preventing "Throwing the Gun" with Drills
  13. 10:14Using a Cert Pistol for Training
  14. 10:50Understanding Sight Alignment and Placement
  15. 11:53Smooth Trigger Press Technique
  16. 12:27Analogy: Driving a Car vs. Operating a Firearm
  17. 13:30Don't Mash the Trigger
  18. 14:10Guns Move When You Press the Trigger
  19. 15:00Learning How People Learn
  20. 15:15Childhood Habits and Firearm Use
  21. 16:14The Gun Recoils on Its Own
  22. 16:35Understanding When Recoil Happens
  23. 17:09Misconceptions About Counteracting Recoil
  24. 17:47Don't Dip or Fight Recoil
  25. 18:48Target Analysis Tools
  26. 19:13Importance of Professional Instruction
  27. 19:41Real-World Examples of Errors
  28. 21:32Promoting Tim Larkin's Book
  29. 21:51Mindset is Everything
  30. 22:03Closing Remarks

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes a firearm to shoot low?

A common cause for shooting low is anticipating recoil. This leads the shooter to 'throw the gun' or dip the muzzle just before the trigger breaks, disrupting the sight picture and sending the shot low. It's crucial to focus on a smooth trigger press and allow the gun to recoil naturally after the bullet has left the barrel.

How can I improve my trigger control to avoid shooting low?

To improve trigger control, focus on reaching the trigger wall and then smoothly pressing through the shot without disturbing your sight alignment. Practicing trigger reset is also vital, as it allows for more controlled follow-up shots. Using tools like laser training aids can help visualize your shot placement and identify issues.

What is 'throwing the gun' in shooting?

'Throwing the gun' refers to the action of actively moving the firearm, often downwards or sideways, in an attempt to counteract perceived recoil. This is a mistake because recoil happens after the bullet has exited the barrel, and this anticipatory movement disrupts the shot's trajectory, typically causing it to go low.

Why is it important to get professional firearms instruction?

Professional firearms instructors provide expert guidance to identify and correct fundamental errors like 'throwing the gun.' They focus on teaching proper technique, safety, and mindset, which are critical for effective and safe firearm operation. Unlike personal relationships, professionals prioritize your knowledge and ability over personal feelings.

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