Originally Posted By: Brad WDo you guys think that practicing a fast smooth draw ever requires live ammo? I get that you want to simulate a real life scenario but practicing with snap caps will never get you shot (as long as you double check that they are indeed snap caps) and you might be able to practice draw and shooting separately. Thoughts?
There is no substitute for burning powder. Yes, dry fire practice can and often will make you better, but at the end of the day the proof is in the pudding, you have to burn powder. I have been a competitive shooter since I was 10 years old in a variety of disciplines. I made it to Grand Master doing practical pistol competitions, IDPA, USPSA, etc. I practiced dry firing and my draw for hours on end. First rule, NO ammunition was even in the same room. NO live magazines, dummy mags only. When "practice" barrels came onto the scene, we went out and got them.
One thing that these situations have in common is a failure to follow basic firearms safety rules. Treat all firearms as if they are loaded. Unload and clear before attempting to "practice."
Slow is smooth and smooth is fast. Another common denominator in many of these situations is "fast" draw. They try to snatch the gun out as quick as they can which usually entails grabbing the trigger. Booger hook off the bang switch until you want it to go bang. Trying to rush is not going to make you fast. Eliminate unnecessary movements and you will get faster.
I would also recommend the use of a shot timer. Timers and steel targets do not lie.
There is no substitute for burning powder. Yes, dry fire practice can and often will make you better, but at the end of the day the proof is in the pudding, you have to burn powder. I have been a competitive shooter since I was 10 years old in a variety of disciplines. I made it to Grand Master doing practical pistol competitions, IDPA, USPSA, etc. I practiced dry firing and my draw for hours on end. First rule, NO ammunition was even in the same room. NO live magazines, dummy mags only. When "practice" barrels came onto the scene, we went out and got them.
One thing that these situations have in common is a failure to follow basic firearms safety rules. Treat all firearms as if they are loaded. Unload and clear before attempting to "practice."
Slow is smooth and smooth is fast. Another common denominator in many of these situations is "fast" draw. They try to snatch the gun out as quick as they can which usually entails grabbing the trigger. Booger hook off the bang switch until you want it to go bang. Trying to rush is not going to make you fast. Eliminate unnecessary movements and you will get faster.
I would also recommend the use of a shot timer. Timers and steel targets do not lie.
