What Firearms Instructors Deal With When Training Some People

This expert-level guide from Achilles Heel Tactical debunks common misconceptions about firearms training. It emphasizes the critical difference between uncomfortable, growth-oriented training and counterproductive, uncontrolled shooting. The core principle is to find a balance where shooters push their limits, make identifiable mistakes, and learn to correct them for genuine skill enhancement, rather than simply reinforcing current abilities.

This guide details how to improve trigger control using the HTS Dry-Fire Bullet Insert, as demonstrated by firearms instructor John G. Johnson. The insert allows for uninterrupted dry-fire practice by preventing slide lock, enabling a full trigger press simulation. The recommended training involves a combination of dry-fire and live-fire drills, emphasizing a high volume of trigger pulls to build muscle memory and refine technique. Instructor John G. Johnson, an expert in firearms training, offers this method to help shooters fix common trigger control issues.

This video from Barrel & Hatchet Training Group contrasts an idealized firearms drill with the messy reality of training. It highlights that true mastery, as demonstrated by an experienced instructor, involves numerous failures, gear malfunctions, and a focus on the learning process rather than just initial success. The emphasis is on 'Enjoy the process' as the path to proficiency.

This video from John G. Johnson, a firearms instructor, addresses the common issue of improper trigger pull affecting 99% of shooters. He demonstrates the critical difference between a trigger 'pull' and a trigger 'press,' emphasizing that a smooth, controlled press is essential for accuracy, even more so than grip or sight alignment. The guide includes dry-fire drills using the HTS Dry-Fire Bullet Insert and live-fire examples to illustrate how a proper trigger press leads to tighter shot groups.

Joel Park, an experienced firearms instructor, emphasizes that an outcome-focused mindset can hinder progress in shooting. He advocates for a process-oriented approach, urging shooters to concentrate on the mechanics and execution of each step in a drill rather than solely on the final score or time. This method, honed through years of competitive shooting and instruction, helps identify and correct fundamental flaws for more effective skill development.

This video, presented by John G. Johnson of Firearms Training, emphasizes the critical difference between bullseye accuracy and defensive shooting. Johnson introduces a drill focused on the 'vital triangle,' a key area for effective self-defense, stressing that aiming for this zone is more crucial than precise bullseye hits in real-world scenarios. The instruction highlights the importance of consistent training to maintain accuracy as target distance increases.

This video demonstrates a compliant and safe method for Illinois concealed carriers to interact with law enforcement during a traffic stop. Instructor Mike emphasizes keeping hands visible, informing the officer about the firearm's location, and presenting identification and permits via a lanyard to avoid sudden movements. The officer recognizes Mike from his educational content, validating his teaching methods.

Instructor Mike strongly advises against storing firearms in vehicle locations like the sun visor, door pocket, under the leg, seat gap, or glove box due to poor accessibility and security. He emphasizes that carrying on the person, specifically in the appendix position (AIWB), is the most recommended method for quick access and retention, especially in carjacking scenarios. Demonstrations use a blue inert training pistol for safety.

This video highlights the critical importance of situational awareness and proper gear for off-duty law enforcement officers working side jobs. Instructor Mike demonstrates how easily an inattentive officer, distracted by a phone and wearing limiting clothing with a poor-quality holster, can be approached unnoticed. The content emphasizes that while direct confrontation was avoided due to potential negative reactions, the observed vulnerabilities are a serious concern for officer safety.

This video demonstrates a traffic stop scenario involving Instructor Mike and a Chicago police officer. It highlights the importance of maintaining visible hands during an interaction and provides a practical example of how to communicate effectively with law enforcement. The officer issues a warning for a missing license plate, emphasizing the need for proper vehicle documentation.