Wilson Combat Drill of the Week: The F.A.S.T. Drill

This video details a comprehensive pistol skills test developed by Ben Stoeger, designed to benchmark shooter proficiency. It incorporates elements like drawing from a holster, shooting from various positions (standing, kneeling), strong and weak-hand-only shooting, movement, and reloads, all under strict par times. The test uses three USPSA targets and requires a range capable of 25-yard shooting. Stoeger emphasizes that the par times are set with a buffer, making the test achievable with dedicated training.

This drill, 'One Reload, One Live, One Dry', from Tactical Hyve focuses on improving reload speed and addressing trigger control issues post-reload. It involves drawing, loading one round, firing it, performing a reload, and then dry firing, emphasizing follow-through after the reload. The drill is designed to be efficient with ammunition while reinforcing critical shooting fundamentals.

This video demonstrates a strong-hand pistol reload technique, focusing on efficient magazine changes when the slide locks to the rear. It covers proper firearm presentation, magazine release, re-holstering, acquiring a fresh magazine, insertion, and racking the slide using various methods. The instruction emphasizes maintaining a stable and aggressive shooting stance throughout the process.

This video details a pistol training day focusing on practical drills with a Glock 17 Gen 5 equipped with an X300 weapon light and Trijicon night sights. The instructor emphasizes the importance of consistent training for personal and family safety, normalizing practice with carry or duty firearms. Drills include 'one reload twos' and simulated adverse conditions like sand ingress, highlighting the need for proficiency and gear reliability under stress. The session also touches on managing shooter fatigue and maintaining a good grip during dynamic shooting.

This video demonstrates a systematic accuracy test of the Lifecard Pistol, conducted by an experienced presenter. The test involves firing single shots at increasing distances from 3 to 20 yards to simulate real-life self-defense scenarios where only one shot might be available. The presenter provides clear observations on shot placement, concluding that the Lifecard is best suited for very close-range engagements.

This video from Line 45, featuring Ted, delves into the practical differences between 9mm and .22LR for self-defense, emphasizing that the 'best' caliber is subjective and depends heavily on the shooter's ability to handle recoil and train consistently. While 9mm offers superior terminal ballistics and centerfire reliability, micro-compact 9mm pistols can be punishing for new shooters due to their snappy recoil, leading to anticipation and avoidance of practice. .22LR, conversely, offers significantly less recoil, enabling faster follow-up shots, better trigger control, and more affordable practice, which is crucial for building skill. The video highlights that consistent training with a firearm you can shoot well, even if it's a .22LR, often leads to better real-world performance than carrying a 9mm you struggle to master. However, the inherent reliability issues of rimfire ammunition are a significant drawback for defensive use. Ultimately, the choice hinges on individual recoil tolerance, training habits, and a realistic assessment of one's ability to perform under stress.

This guide details the dangers of 'thumbing the hammer down' on a loaded firearm, a technique strongly advised against by experts. It emphasizes that this action, which involves pulling the trigger while manually lowering the hammer, carries a high risk of accidental discharge if the thumb slips. The expert instruction highlights safer alternatives like engaging the manual safety for 'cocked and locked' carry or clearing the chamber entirely.

This guide details the advanced technique of hand stippling a 1911 firearm frame for enhanced grip, as demonstrated by a master gunsmith. It covers the precise application of texture using a punch and hammer, followed by meticulous filing to refine the edges. This process requires significant skill and attention to detail for a professional finish.

This guide details the proper technique for cycling the slide on a semi-automatic pistol, specifically the 1911, as explained by Ken Hackathorn. It emphasizes avoiding "gun abuse" by not slamming the slide on an empty chamber, which can cause premature wear. The explanation includes the mechanical reasons behind this, focusing on how the cartridge rim stabilizes the extractor and cushions the slide's action.

Massad Ayoob, a renowned firearms instructor and legal expert, details the critical post-Defensive Gun Use (DGU) protocol. He emphasizes that the most common mistake is failing to immediately call 911 after a DGU, even if no shots were fired. This action is crucial for establishing oneself as the victim complainant in the ensuing legal aftermath.