Combative Handgun training

1. Accuracy takes precedence over speed.

The most important thing is to hit what you are shooting at. No matter what else happens, you must hit your target.

2. Learn to apply your skills on demand.

No one knows for sure when an attack will occur and being able to respond skillfully, without conscious thought, is essential or you will not be an active participant in your own rescue.

3. You must compete at your natural body speed. Don’t attempt to speed up or slow down.

In a fight, panic fire will not solve the problem. You must keep yourself in check and shoot no faster than you are capable of doing accurately.

4. Speed will increase through practice; it is a byproduct of proper training and technique.

You don’t have to try to be fast. As your skill increases and you are able to execute at the subconscious level, speed increases naturally.

5. Let the sights dictate your cadence of fire. If the sights are acceptably aligned, fire the shot.

Only hits end a fight; fast misses are like shots that are never taken, as they have no affect on the situation.

6. Learn what is an acceptable sight picture, and squeeze for the required shot.

You’d like to always see the perfect sight alignment, but you must learn to accept less if it will still allow you to hit your target. Remember, quality of sight alignment for a 15-yard shot is NOT as exact as a 25-yard shot. And at interview distance it can be even less and still be effective. Train for it.

7. Shoot one shot at a time.

The next shot you are about to fire is the most important one of your life.

8. Know how to properly operate your gun on an auto-subconscious level. Train with your firearm.

Beyond shooting, you must know how to handle gun jams and malfunctions and other issues that could rear their ugly heads at critical moments.

9. Assume your opponent is at least as skilled as you are. By taking this position, you will not become overly confident and will be less likely to make a mistake which could cost you your life.

10. When all else fails, align the sights and squeezed the prepped trigger.