Thoughts on how to track the red dot on your pistol in recoil

Published on November 15, 2017
Duration: 9:26

This guide details the Berm Drill, a technique popularized by competitors and adapted for red dot sights by Scott Smith of Modern Samurai Project. The drill focuses on isolating recoil control and dot tracking by shooting into a berm without an aiming point. By observing the red dot's movement, shooters can diagnose grip issues and improve their ability to keep the dot within the sight window during rapid fire, ultimately enhancing overall shooting performance.

Quick Summary

The Berm Drill is a training technique for pistol shooters focusing on red dot tracking and recoil control. By shooting rapidly into a berm without an aiming point, shooters can isolate these skills, observe the red dot's movement to diagnose grip issues, and improve their ability to keep the sight on target during rapid fire.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Ballistic Radio Mention
  2. 00:35Introducing the Berm Drill
  3. 01:00Why Shoot into a Berm?
  4. 01:24Accuracy vs. Speed Drills
  5. 02:33Performance-Based Training Principles
  6. 03:06Micro Drills in Sports
  7. 03:43Focusing on Dot Tracking
  8. 04:31Executing the Berm Drill
  9. 04:40Analyzing Dot Movement
  10. 04:59Grip Discussion: Jim Santoro & Vogel Grip
  11. 05:46Self-Defense vs. Competition Focus
  12. 06:44Impact of Vogel-like Grip on Dot Tracking
  13. 06:55Range Practice Recommendations
  14. 07:13Grip Adjustment Experiments
  15. 07:25Elbow Bend vs. Locked Arms
  16. 08:35Summary of Berm Drill Benefits
  17. 08:52Modern Samurai Project Invitation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Berm Drill for pistol shooters?

The Berm Drill is a training exercise where you shoot rapidly into a berm or blank target backing without an aiming point. Its primary purpose is to isolate and improve your ability to track the red dot sight during recoil and enhance overall recoil control.

How does the Berm Drill help improve grip?

By focusing solely on the red dot's movement, you can observe how your grip affects its travel path. Deviations like the dot moving up and to the side can indicate specific grip issues that can then be adjusted and re-tested.

Why is shooting into a berm beneficial for recoil control?

Shooting into a berm removes the pressure of accuracy, allowing you to focus entirely on speed and recoil management. This enables you to experiment with grip and body mechanics to find what best absorbs recoil and keeps the dot visible.

What is the recommended grip technique for better red dot tracking?

A high support hand grip, often called the 'drumstick' position, is recommended. This technique, similar to the Vogel grip, helps minimize the vertical travel of the red dot during recoil, making it easier to maintain sight alignment.

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