Training Diary 12 - Hard Leans - You IDPA guys NEED to watch this one

This guide breaks down how to analyze performance in competitive shooting matches, drawing from an experienced shooter's first match of 2026. It covers stage review, movement optimization, decision-making under pressure, and specific techniques for engaging targets. The insights are valuable for any shooter looking to improve their competitive scores and efficiency on the range.

This technique focuses on efficiently engaging targets from behind cover by utilizing shoulder transitions and rifle re-extension without repositioning the shooter's feet. The instructor emphasizes saving time, improving accuracy, and maintaining concentration by avoiding common mistakes like stepping back or excessive rifle manipulation. The method allows for rapid engagement from multiple angles around an obstacle.

This guide details Ben Stoeger's 'floaty thumb' technique for pistol grips, emphasizing consistency and recoil management. Stoeger, a renowned competition shooter, demonstrates how allowing the support thumb to float off the frame, rather than applying pressure, leads to more predictable firearm performance. This method is shown to be effective across various platforms, including Atlas 2011, Sig Sauer P320, and P226, and helps prevent common malfunctions like the slide failing to lock back.

This guide details how to set up and use the Mantis TitanX dry fire trainer for pistol practice. It covers target setup with MTS targets, app integration, and the importance of consistent practice to diagnose and correct shooting flaws. The instruction emphasizes the value of dry fire training for improving marksmanship, as demonstrated by the Fit'n Fire channel's host.

This video demonstrates a fundamental shooting drill focusing on the draw, magazine reload, and target re-acquisition. The individual showcases efficient gear utilization and fluid firearm manipulation, highlighting the importance of smooth transitions between actions. The drill emphasizes maintaining a stable grip and accurate aim throughout the sequence, suitable for competitive shooters or those seeking to improve defensive pistol skills.

This video demonstrates the Criss Cross Drill, an advanced handgun training exercise focusing on rapid target transitions and efficient movement. The drill involves engaging multiple targets from different positions, emphasizing speed and accuracy. The operator, equipped with tactical gear including a plate carrier and drop-leg holster, showcases proficient manipulation and reloading techniques, highlighting the utility of accessories like red dot sights and weapon lights.

This guide details a practical experiment to debunk the myth that an AR-15 round would 'blow off' an ear. The Humble Marksman demonstrates through testing with pig ears that common rifle rounds, and even heavier calibers, create clean holes rather than explosive damage on thin tissue. The expert's analysis highlights the difference between tissue interaction and ballistics gel cavitation.

This guide showcases the specialized 'Space Guns' used in Open Division competition at the Double Tap Championship. It highlights custom 2011 pistols, advanced optics like C-More RTS2 and Sig Sauer Romeo3 Max, and high-end holsters from Safariland and Double Alpha Academy. The content, presented by a seasoned competition shooter, offers insights into the gear and techniques employed in high-level shooting events.

This guide details an efficient iron sight technique, drawing on insights from 3-division USPSA Grand Master Tim Herron. It emphasizes a shift from rigid front sight focus to a more effective target-oriented approach, using the rear sight for gross aiming and the front sight for fine-tuning. This method is particularly beneficial for shooters transitioning from red dot sights.

This guide details the disassembly process for three popular 2011-style pistols: the Staccato P, Springfield Armory Prodigy, and Bul Armory SAS II Tac 4.25. It highlights differences in guide rod systems, with the Staccato P featuring a toolless system, the Bul Armory requiring a paperclip or staple, and the Springfield Armory Prodigy needing a hex wrench. Proper maintenance of the guide rod system is crucial for reliable firearm function.