The Secret to Fixing Low & Left Shots

This guide, presented by John G. Johnson of Firearms Training, addresses the common shooting error of shots going low and left. It emphasizes correcting eye dominance and weapon angle by aligning the firearm over the dominant eye through proper stance and grip adjustments. The instruction also details the critical technique of using the tip of the trigger finger and executing a smooth trigger press, rather than a pull, to improve accuracy.

Quick Summary

To fix low and left pistol shots, ensure your firearm is aligned directly over your dominant eye by adjusting your stance and grip. Use the tip of your trigger finger for a smooth, controlled press, avoiding a trigger pull which often causes muzzle deviation and inaccurate shots.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Common Shooting Error: Low & Left
  2. 00:03Eye Dominance & Weapon Angle
  3. 00:12Incorrect Trigger Finger Placement
  4. 00:21Pulling vs. Pressing Trigger
  5. 00:27Adjusting Gun to Dominant Eye
  6. 00:32Proper Stance and Grip
  7. 00:41Aligning Gun Over Dominant Eye

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main reasons for shooting low and to the left with a pistol?

Shooting low and left is often due to a visual bias caused by not aligning the pistol directly with your dominant eye. This can happen if you're right-eyed and holding the pistol at an angle. Incorrect trigger finger placement and pulling the trigger instead of pressing it are also significant contributors.

How can I correct my pistol's angle to align with my dominant eye?

To correct the angle, adjust your stance and grip so the firearm is directly over your dominant eye. This involves pressing the pistol straight out and potentially slightly adjusting your chin to achieve perfect alignment, ensuring your eye is directly over the pistol's sights.

What is the correct way to use my trigger finger for accurate shooting?

The correct technique involves using the tip of your trigger finger to engage the trigger. Avoid using the crease of your finger, as this can lead to an inconsistent and uncontrolled trigger press, which often results in shots going low and left.

Should I pull or press the trigger on my pistol?

You should execute a smooth, controlled press of the trigger, not a pull. Pulling the trigger typically causes the muzzle to move offline just as the shot breaks, leading to low and left shots. A press involves a deliberate, rearward movement of the trigger that minimizes disruption to sight alignment.

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