Your Target Is Telling You What's Wrong

This video, presented by John G. Johnson, an expert firearms instructor, details how to diagnose shooting errors by analyzing bullet impacts on a target. Johnson explains that target analysis, including quadrant distribution and grouping location, can reveal issues with sight picture, grip, and trigger control. He demonstrates how to identify common problems like high-left shots and offers specific corrective techniques such as the 6 o'clock hold and a 60/40 grip, emphasizing that the target itself provides crucial feedback for improvement.

Quick Summary

Diagnose shooting errors by analyzing bullet groupings on your target. High impacts may require a '6 o'clock hold,' while leftward shots for right-handed shooters often point to grip issues, like underpowering with the support hand, or technique errors such as the gun being too far over the nose.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Target Analysis Introduction
  2. 00:25Target History & Setup
  3. 00:47Quadrant Analysis of Target
  4. 01:06Right-Handed Shooter & Aiming Point
  5. 01:22High Impact Cause (Sight Picture)
  6. 01:44Grip Issue (Underpowering)
  7. 01:58Nose Over Gun (Left Impact)
  8. 02:18Instructor's Role & Solutions
  9. 03:11HTS Skool Promotion & Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if my shooting impacts are high or low?

High impacts on your target, especially if you aimed directly at the center, often indicate you need to use a '6 o'clock hold.' This means aligning your sights at the bottom edge of the target, allowing the bullet to strike slightly higher than your sight picture.

What causes my shots to group to the left when I'm a right-handed shooter?

Leftward impacts for a right-handed shooter can stem from an improper grip, where your support hand isn't providing enough pressure (underpowering), or a technique error like positioning the gun too far over your nose. Focus on a balanced 60/40 grip.

What is the '6 o'clock hold' in shooting?

The '6 o'clock hold' is a sight alignment method where you place the front sight at the bottom edge (6 o'clock position) of the target. This technique is often used to achieve a higher point of impact, correcting for shots that naturally group high when aiming dead center.

How does grip pressure affect shot placement?

Grip pressure is crucial. For right-handed shooters, a 60/40 distribution (support hand 60%, dominant hand 40%) helps control recoil and muzzle flip. Insufficient pressure from the support hand can lead to shots grouping left, while excessive pressure can cause other issues.

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Firearms Training By John G. Johnson

View all →