Shooting on hard mode

Published on May 28, 2024
Duration: 3:01

Ben Stoeger discusses revisiting the Glock platform in .40 S&W caliber with iron sights, framing it as 'shooting on hard mode.' He explains this choice is driven by a surplus of 180-grain Gold Dot .40 S&W ammunition acquired from a police agency. Stoeger contrasts the shooting experience with 9mm, noting the increased discomfort and reduced motivation to shoot more with .40 S&W due to its snappier recoil.

Quick Summary

Ben Stoeger defines 'shooting on hard mode' as intentionally increasing the difficulty, such as using a .40 S&W Glock with iron sights. This approach enhances recoil management skills and is motivated by the availability of 180-grain Gold Dot .40 S&W ammunition, offering a more challenging experience than standard 9mm.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to 'Hard Mode' Shooting
  2. 00:15The .40 Caliber Glock
  3. 00:35Why Shoot on Hard Mode?
  4. 01:01Ammunition: 180gr Gold Dot
  5. 01:14Acquiring .40 Cal Ammo
  6. 01:59.40 S&W vs. 9mm Shooting Experience
  7. 02:44Discomfort vs. Pain
  8. 02:56Conclusion: Shooting .40 S&W

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'shooting on hard mode' mean in the context of firearms?

'Shooting on hard mode' refers to intentionally making a shooting exercise more challenging. For Ben Stoeger, this involves using a .40 S&W caliber Glock with iron sights, increasing recoil and complexity compared to a standard 9mm setup.

Why would someone choose to shoot .40 S&W over 9mm?

While 9mm is generally preferred for comfort and ease of shooting, .40 S&W can be chosen for 'hard mode' training due to its increased recoil, which demands better technique. It can also be a practical choice if a large quantity of .40 S&W ammunition is available.

What are the perceived differences in shooting experience between .40 S&W and 9mm?

Shooting .40 S&W is described as more 'annoying' and 'uncomfortable' than 9mm, leading to faster hand soreness and reduced motivation for subsequent shooting days. 9mm is considered easier to shoot all day with less fatigue.

What type of ammunition is being used for this 'hard mode' training?

The training utilizes 180-grain Speer Gold Dot .40 S&W ammunition. This specific load was acquired in bulk from a police agency.

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