How do you train?

[Itstjs]

How do you train for the "unthinkable?" Meaning what kind of drills do you go through? What kind of drills do you do most often, and least often?
I only ask because, of course, you see videos where CCW carriers and regular civilians alike are put in a training situation, and of course, all fail. Of course their in a classroom environment and movement is restricted, in real life, it would be a little bit different, but got me thinking, what could I do to make myself better?
Post your training routine, and how often you train.

 

[B2Tall]

Gun pointed at the ground, raise it, double-tap, move left or right to the next target, double-tap.

Again
And again
And again

3 times a month on average, about 200 rounds each time. When practicing with my pistols I'll buy one large paper target and attach multiple 6" Shoot-N-C targets. That way I can move from one to another. Often times I'll put a snap-cap in one of the mags to simulate a misfire. I practice pistol shooting at distances out to 50 ft but mostly it's between 15-30 ft. Those are the ranges where most firearm encounters occur. (I will on occasion take the pistols outdoors and shoot 50-100 yds just to see what the gun can do at those distances. That's more recreational than anything else.). Virtually all my shooting is done two-handed but I do practice shooting one-handed from the hip or waist as well. You never know when an encounter might be at point-blank range and you'll need your non-shooting hand to fend off an attacker.

I'm at the indoor range most Tuesday afternoons. The weekends are for the rifles and shotguns at the outdoor range, usually twice a month.

 

[Itstjs]

Looks like I need to step my training up a little bit, that does sound like a great work out. I usually end up blowing 200 rounds or less on pop cans just tryin to hit them, and 8x11 pieces of paper. I havent practiced anything intense like that and have had my CPL for about a year now.

 

[NM-1911]

I very rarely "plink". Every time I go out (which is not near as often as I would like), I burn through 200-500 rounds with my carry firearm. I practice tactical shooting at various targets. My standard is a double tap followed by a single tap. I practice from a modified weaver stance, to two handed moving, to single strong hand, to single off hand. I was taught a long time ago that one should be proficient with all three grips; two handed, strong hand, and off hand. That way, if your strong hand/arm is taken out of commission, you still can shoot back.

I would LOVE to go to In-Site and take their tactical defense class. I saw a video for In-Site and they showed a portion of the class that teaches you to shoot while FALLING backward! Anything to hone my skills helps.

I shoot at paper targets, soda cans, clay pigeons, water bottles, you name it. I have the fortune of being able to shoot on my property and have a developed shooting range I use. I just need to make more time to shoot.

Good luck and keep practising. It may be the only thing that keeps you alive.

 

[GuyNAndover]

I agree...

... with the suggestions here.. All good stuff. I'm no expert (whew got that out'a the way).. But I know it's about muscle memory, reflex, and mental conditioning. When the "unthinkable" comes, you'll react like you've trained. Even practicing with your firearm unloaded, drawing from concealed carry and snapping that first shot (dry fire) is a good thing to do repeatedly. Try to keep it within 2 seconds. Try it with the various types of clothing you ware, and carry methods you use. Statistically speaking, who ever gets off the first shot wins a firefight. The suggested double tab, then fire again, multiple targets is a great way to train. Shooting at cans can be good, BUT I think it's better to use a silhouette and just get yourself in the total mind set. It's my humble opinion that people don't really know if they can shoot another human being until that "unthinkable" day comes and they are presented with that choice, and that challenge. It's as much if not more a mental challenge, as it is a physical one. You can be the best shot out there, but if you can't quickly and without thought draw from concealment and fire upon the threat (a human being) you are at a huge disadvantage.

Great question! Got me thinking... Thanks

 

[NM-1911]

Shooting at cans can be good, BUT I think it's better to use a silhouette and just get yourself in the total mind set. It's my humble opinion that people don't really know if they can shoot another human being until that "unthinkable" day comes and they are presented with that choice, and that challenge.

GuyNAndover, usually once or twice a month, I do a tactical shoot with silhouettes, however, my basic mindset is whatever I am pointing my firearm at is just a target. It's a thing. I learned that conditioning when I was practising with the military and FBI guys over 20 years ago. It's also the way I hunt. Makes it easier so I don't have to change my mindset. Anything I point a firearm at is a target that I am willing to destroy (kill).

And the point about shooting another human, I THINK I can, however, I hope I never have to find out.

 

[GuyNAndover]

GuyNAndover, usually once or twice a month, I do a tactical shoot with silhouettes, however, my basic mindset is whatever I am pointing my firearm at is just a target. It's a thing. I learned that conditioning when I was practising with the military and FBI guys over 20 years ago. It's also the way I hunt. Makes it easier so I don't have to change my mindset. Anything I point a firearm at is a target that I am willing to destroy (kill).

And the point about shooting another human, I THINK I can, however, I hope I never have to find out.

Yea, my military training was over 20 years ago too. It was about desensitization, target = thing. Now I train with LE, and in today's training, at least where I am, they make it clear the target/threat is human. As I approach 50, I see "young kids" as potential threats. Young being 30s and below. It can be counter-intuitive.

I totally agree you, I believe I can, I hope no one makes me prove it...

 

[.45 Ben]

Me and my friends like to clear each others houses (guns unloaded and checked again again or course),we clear both by ourselves and in teams.Range training in my pasture or course,plus we have cover with trees and boxes and stuff to practice with.At least every other weekend,usually more.

Oh,and i forgot to ad that i practice on drawing and unholstering quickly.

 

[Itstjs]

I do have to state that I am in the Michigan Army National Guard, Ive got training with m4s but however I dont train with the m9 very often, and when I do, its nothing too glorious...
I believe I COULD draw and fire on a human in a civilian situation, I just hope I dont mess up and shoot my foot lol. I dry fire with my weapon, draw here and there, but I do find it difficult being my holster turns the safety off...Ready to fire mode I guess...
:big_boss:

 

[ClearSightTactical]

Wow, there are some great responses on this board, gave me some ideas lol. I don't always stick to this but the below is my optimal plan for range days.

My normal routine is 60 rounds marksmanship maintenance, this is non-timed, 2-handed shooting at 3, 7, 10, 15, 20, and 25 yards 10 rounds per distance.

20 rounds per hand of 1- handed drills from 7 yards, from the holster.

10 rounds of "fast as you can" from the holster at 3 yards. *shot timer w/ delayed start* 1.53 is my best time that I cannot beat (Level 2 duty holster, I think slows it down from CCW holster)

10 rounds from each distance (3, 7, 10, 15, 20, 25) with time markers for each. IE: 3 yards I allot myself 1.75 seconds as "acceptable" if it averages less I repeat the distance.

30 rounds worth of speed reload. I spread 4 magazines and load them with various rounds Example: Mag 1 will be loaded with 3 rounds, mag 2 with 2 rounds, mag 3 with 5 rounds, mag 4 with 8 rounds, etc...

I then shuffle the magazines around so I don't know which one has how many, I do shoot and move from various distance at silhouette targets, and speed reload on empty.

I'm sure I need to incorporate more drills into my training, but having a plan sure does beat going to the range with 200 rounds and feeling unaccomplished afterwards lol.

 

[tomwalshco]

I'll set up some paper plates and practice between 5-10 yards. I practice pulling my gun from its carry position and fire a couple at a time, never looking at anything but the paper plates.

I don't care what anyone says, when you-know-what hits the fan, you're eyes will be locked on that bad guy. Won't be looking for any sights, lasers, lights, etc.

It's muscle memory practice and your hand and arm will know when you're on target. Sorta like the Sundance Kid's school of self defense.

 

[ClearSightTactical]

I'll set up some paper plates and practice between 5-10 yards. I practice pulling my gun from its carry position and fire a couple at a time, never looking at anything but the paper plates.

I don't care what anyone says, when you-know-what hits the fan, you're eyes will be locked on that bad guy. Won't be looking for any sights, lasers, lights, etc.

It's muscle memory practice and your hand and arm will know when you're on target. Sorta like the Sundance Kid's school of self defense.

Not to change the topic of the thread, but point shooting is only half of the equation. I recently attended a combat focus shooting course. I trained with Robb Hamic, an accredited instructor of CFS. Rob Pincus is the founder of the Combat Focus Shooting program and I think you should check out some videos, and maybe even think of attending a class.

I used to think that point shooting was garbage, that it was irresponsible and even unrealistic. I have since changed my opinion. One of the things that is taught in the CFS class is that your target dictates your need for precision. Your confidence and ability dictate your speed.


CFS also recommends that you train in a variety of situations. From your post I gather that you only use point shooting. There are so many variables to where you may need to use precision shots to make combat effective hits.

You'll get no argument from me that in a CQB encounter where you come home from work and some lunatic jumps out of your closet, damn straight your reaction is going to be 'Oh s*** WTF" pull your weapon and engage likely without looking at the sights.

In any prolonged incident, lets say a verbal that escalates to a physical that escalates to someone shooting at YOU. I don't know about you but if I'm being shot at I'm going to scramble for cover. From behind cover I will then assess and re-engage as necessary. Possibly AT a target which is also behind cover, therefore bringing the need to use precision shots (sighted fire).

 

[Itstjs]

I love the responses that I am getting here. What kind of training aside from quick draw, acquire, and fire can you do while at an indoor range? I ask because recently I went to an indoor range that allowed rapid fire, I shot from 7feet, 12 feet, 18 feet and 25 feet, I was surprised at my accuracy. I know that when SHTF I wont be so accurate, but I nailed almost every shot at an actual human size silhouette, everything from head shots, midchest, arms, legs etc, I hit what I was aiming at without any laser sites.
I took my time most the time, and rapid fired when my friend brought the target at a "charging" speed.
I then released a magazine, quickly through in another and continued. Turned that bad ol paper into swiss cheese.

 

[tomwalshco]

Gotcha, Clear.

Practice facilities come into play as well. I'm lucky, joined a shooting club where I can get off by myself at any time inside or outside. 3 a.m. if I'm sleepless. Most people are restricted to crowded ranges - no fast draws, no double taps, no fast fires, cease fires, you're in a toll booth while the targets move in and out on a wire and a clothespin.

When you practice point-shoot and other quick reaction stuff you'll be all over the place and you're buddies will make fun of you or the guy next stall over thinks you're the worst shot in the world. Ego crushing stuff. Most ranges cater to practice styles that are better suited for Olympic trial practice. Not whipping a 2" Kel-Tec outta your pocket at Quik Trip.

That's why I never set foot in those joints anymore. It's just a waste of good ammo.

 

[ClearSightTactical]

Gotcha, Clear.

Practice facilities come into play as well. I'm lucky, joined a shooting club where I can get off by myself at any time inside or outside. 3 a.m. if I'm sleepless. Most people are restricted to crowded ranges - no fast draws, no double taps, no fast fires, cease fires, you're in a toll booth while the targets move in and out on a wire and a clothespin.

When you practice point-shoot and other quick reaction stuff you'll be all over the place and you're buddies will make fun of you or the guy next stall over thinks you're the worst shot in the world. Ego crushing stuff. Most ranges cater to practice styles that are better suited for Olympic trial practice. Not whipping a 2" Kel-Tec outta your pocket at Quik Trip.

That's why I never set foot in those joints anymore. It's just a waste of good ammo.

Agreed, I am a member of a 24 hour club, any time on a large private berm. Urban Prone, crouch, rapid fire, from concealment, from the holster, etc. If anyone is stuck at a 'Stand and Deliver" only facility I strongly reccomend you seek alternatives. The only alternative may be taking advanced training so you'll just have to talk yourself into it (I know it'll be difficult to talk yourself into spending a day at the range having a good time with your firearm)

 

[billv]

Agreed, I am a member of a 24 hour club, any time on a large private berm. Urban Prone, crouch, rapid fire, from concealment, from the holster, etc. If anyone is stuck at a 'Stand and Deliver" only facility I strongly reccomend you seek alternatives. The only alternative may be taking advanced training so you'll just have to talk yourself into it (I know it'll be difficult to talk yourself into spending a day at the range having a good time with your firearm)

I agree with this too. None of the indoor ranges near me allow drawing from a holster. Some limit shot interval to no less than 1 second (WTF?).

I Dry fire at home several times a week. I use a LaserLyte LT-Pro and that works ok (It a device that fits in the barrel, self centering, and shines a laser for 0.1 second when it hears the firing pin click. It's works ok, but I can't rack the slide normally or it will fly out of the barrel. LaserLyte has a new one that fits inside the barrel that is like a snapcap but shines the laser when you pull the trigger but is designed to without the rim so it won't be ejected during racking. It been announced but not sure that it's for sale yet. Look for LT-45, LT-9 or LT-40.

At the range I mainly go to double check my dry fire, deal with recoil issues (I still flinch) and accuracy.

I also shoot in some competitions - a USPSA deal with steels and a group near me for Springfield armory XD owners that does a competition monthly. My goal is not win (it'd be nice) - but to get practical practice in simulated stressful situations. Competitions are timed so you want to go fast but not hitting the target usually costs time penalties so you go as fast as you can and still be as accurate as you can. Still I time penalty is nothing like a miss that hits someone....

 

[Itstjs]

The Advanced Ranges by me offers a defensive shooting class [4 hours for about 100 to 150 dollars] Im thinking about taking it up. I talked with the guy at the counter, he said they clear off the range of all tables and stuff like that, set up walls, and give you a stressful situation, put civilian targets up as well as BG targets. He said the lights kinda flicker, and youre forced to get from one side or the other in about 3 minutes and fire from several positions.
I think this would be fun, but for a 4 hour class, I dont know if its going to be for me really. Might be worth checking it out though....Curiosity more than anything heh...

 

[tomwalshco]

Classes are fine, taken a couple, but it seems as though over half the time is spent on gun safety (needed, of course, but I get it, thanks). Classes always seem to move at the pace of the slowest student.

If my club went bust or the members voted me out because I was an a-hole, I'd probably put up some notes at hardware/feed stores in surrounding rural communities.

"Myself and a couple of my mature friends...... would be willing to pay for the privilege, blah, blah....
You set the days and hours, blah, blah...will keep the place neat and clean.... - call Nice Guy at 555-5555."

Maybe try an ad in the local Penny Saver or Thrifty Nickel.
Lots of empty farm land sitting around these days. You and your buds could have some fun and maybe learn some stuff along the way.

 

[Daven]

Since my regular range does not allow drawing from holster to shoot, I sometimes go out to the desert to practice my drawing and other tactical situations.

 

[Passin Thru]

I am not going into details but having shot at someone I can tell you, IT IS TRAUMATIC!
I practice all the time, in my sleep, if I can sleep, day time, at breakfast. I am always seeing the invisible guy. I had military training and it did not train me for this. I went to PTSD counciling for several years and still I have nightmares, most of someone chasing me and killing me. Be sure you are RIGHT before you shoot. It's bad enough taht everything is and worse if it isnt. Practice!