Shooting Techniques Part 3 [ Trigger Control ]
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 21 ส.ค. 2024
- Tips on maintaining trigger control.
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hickok45's videos cost me hours of sleep! I start watching them,and the next thing I know,it's 4 in the morning. Thank you for making these excellent videos!
+Ralphs007 He's the Bob Ross of gun guys. You just can't stop watching.
I've been saying the exact same thing. Totally the Bob Ross of guns.
i know the feeling Ralphs007......
I got on youtube to look up a video for class and was like, "Heyyyy it's a hickok video" and that was the end of that. lol
Spider-Man
"They're (guns) all more accurate than we are." Classic quote. And so true.
I smiled at Hickok repeatedly saying 'I do that myself', showing that humility its a great way to make novices less self conscious. I teach myself, cooking, and of course we all make mistakes at times, a little anecdote tends to make people less upset at their own mistakes.
Saying that: I doubt very much mr Hickok actually flinches a lot.
Greg (his real name) is a crackshot indeed...but that's over 50 yrs of shooting everyday. And we must take into account that some people are just inherently naturals at what they do. However this man has a passion for shooting and guns..like we have a passion for breathing...he lives for it. I'm trying to soak up his advice to become a better shooter with pistols because I'm certainly not great at it YET. HELL..I'm lucky to Crack a target at 100 yards with a scoped rifle much less a pistol...bullseye speaking. I'm relatively new at the sport and learning with every shooting therapy session at the range. It's very expensive to buy ammo and most of us don't have the luxury to step into our backyard to shoot and/or endless supply of ammo given to us
100% correct...The flinch is the most common error for shooters. It is a problem all us have or have had at one time...The first step is accurate diagnosis, then it can be fixed...The sight picture/alignment must not be disturbed at the time the shoot breaks...
i love h45; feel like i know him. he is so humble, relaxed and cool. so reasonable and a great teacher. thanx for all the insight, info and tips, hickock!
No joke Mr. Hickok45…you are by far the most entertaining, interesting and most educated with firearms as anyone.
It’s one thing to have the experience and education part but at the same time, you keep people’s interests and explain things in Layman’s Terms to where us common folk can comprehend.
Just want to say a big thank you for sharing your knowledge.
I think it really IS so, so important. As I say in the video, it's the thing we all struggle with every time we pick up a handgun. Do the random dummy round load with yourself and any good shooters you can find; you'll see what I mean. If you find somebody totally immune to the trigger jerk, give him or her a medal! It is well deserved.
I am 69-years-old and just started shooting handguns ten months ago. Your three videos on technique are wonderful and VERY HELPFUL! Thank you!
You're my favorite teacher. No arrogance, just a good solid experienced teacher.
You really should have your own show on some cable channel. Seriously, if I see one more show about fashion or celebrities I'm going to scream. 500 plus channels on TV and nothing to watch. Good thing for Hickok45 and son for great educational videos and pure firearm enjoyment. Keep it up!!!
What I learned from this video alone has improved the tightness of my groups by at least three inches.
And allowed me to move the back sights on my pistol from far right back to center LOL.
Great vid! Thanks Hickok.
Sorry, we get so many requests for that I had to do an FAQ video on it a couple of years ago. Enjoy Nashville; it's a great place!
Hickok45
That was part of the U.S. Army marksmanship course for the M1 when I was in basic training in 1959. You would have someone else load the eight round clip and then watch for the flinch when you fired. It works.
This was the first Hickok video I ever watched. All these years later things have changed so much for him and I am glad.
he continues to amaze me. Read a hundred articles and you communicate correctly and fast. Thanks for all the years of making my shooting fun and better.
Here is what I saw; 1st one-no flinch. 2nd one-no flinch. 3rd one-slightest of flinches. One that I probably would not have even seen if I had not been paying extremely close attention. Anyone else agree?
You sir deserve a TV show that's all about firearms. Your videos are awesome!
@SGCB , Regardless of one's eyesight, the front sight is the key focal point. nobody can have a perfectly clear focus on all three points: rear sight, front sight, & target. Just isn't possible and is not necessary anyway.
LOL, Hickok is so right. I was shooting low-left like crazy until I started learning to control the trigger jerk. Proper trigger control is a Zen-like experience, requiring a lot of focus and total control.
Thank you for everything you do. Love the tips, love the reviews, love your style!
I was confused by the term 'anticipating recoil' when I first transitioned to handguns, as the first gun I ever had was a 12g pump, so I got over the fear of recoil quickly. What I decided was, I was 'anticipating the trigger break'. Meaning, I was concentrating on trying to know just when the trigger would break and not on keeping the sights aligned through the entire trigger pull. As soon as I stopped trying to 'know' the trigger, I got much better with handguns.
ive found shooting from the wall helps with that. it's awesome
I just want to thank you so much for taking the time for making these videos and explaining things in detail. They have really helped me improve my shooting.
Hey Hickok, I've picked up shooting casually about a year ago. I don't shoot as much as I'd like to but when I do shoot I always end up down and to the left just like you said would happen if you anticipated.
I will definitely be picking up some dummy rounds and try that method out and really start trying to improve my technique. I just started looking at your videos this week and I absolutely love them! Hope you continue to make them for years and years.
Thanks again!
Your training videos have been very helpful, you have a good manner of explaining the curriculum.
I think I mention in one of these videos how I use more finger than one is supposed to. I contact the trigger with the first joint of the trigger finger.
use what works for you!!
Damn watching these Shooting Technique videos of H 45 really helped me. Have been shooting my Sig P229 for two years and shoot pretty well and don't shoot like a pro now, but in one range session cut my 7 yard group in half.
Humble, that's why I love watching your videos and listening to your tips and advise.
I definitely shoot low and left when I'm unfocused. This tip you outline seems like a great technique to keep the mind in control the whole time. I also try to concentrate on following through on my trigger pull.
Thanks for this and all of the excellent videos you've posted.
I really needed this video. I flinched just watching it
I KNOW I flinch. I've got to try this technique so I can get a better idea of which direction that I'm flinching. I can only hope that one day I can be 1/2 as good as Mr. hickok45.
I flinch especially when someone in the lane next to me pulls the trigger on a rifle that I can feel a blast of hot air on despite a partition.
My wife and enjoy your videos. Thank you for taking the interest and time in making them.
between this vid and todd jarrett's vid.....when i am off, i always go back to calming down,aiming dead center of the bullseye,and slowly,slowly pulling the trigger a little at a time. haven't used dummy rounds in a while, probably should. this is a terrific vid...thanks,hickok!
Thanks Hickok45: I really enjoy your videos, finally I hear someone say they raise the front sight post above the rear sight to make a long shot. Most people will say keep the front sight level and hold over, I knew there had to be a better way.
rdaugherty52 I can't take credit for it. I have read the master; Elmer Keith.
I have a cheap .22lr revolver that shoots a little high, so I place the tip of the front post below level to where I can barely see it. Works like a charm...
I’ve watched so many people with tips on TH-cam. Not a single one is as good as this man. Keep up the great work, sir!
You nailed that one Hickok.
Trigger pull flinch control is a huge problem.
Brand new pistol owner here... I had a friend load 3 snap caps into my 10rd mag... and sure as shit, I was flinching like hell on every round. I'm going to continue this exercise at the range for an extended amount of time.
Thanks for the AMAZINGLY informative videos!!!!
Good tips. Trigger control is the most important thing that helped me to improve my handgun shooting. Crimson trace laser grips are another great training device that really shows how steady or unsteady your hold is on the target. My eyes arent what they were so I got a set for my nightstand pistol. When I am at the range it really makes me concentrate on my grip, trigger control and sight picture. Even with them turned off it has made me a better shot with a handgun.
In my opinion this is the second most important video that you have done (first is your gun safety video). I was shooting low left and the first thing I did was blame my sights. Then, I blamed my grip. I shot hundreds of rounds and did not know what i was doing wrong. I am flinching basically every time. Great video.
I started using your technique for sight alignment. I have a revolver, with fixed sights, that shoots a little high(POA). I used to just aim at a spot below my target. But, now I just line the sights up, to where I barely see the tip of the front sight. It has made a huge difference in my accuracy. Thanks Hickok!
1 points I teach my students which relates to flinch is follow through. 1 Particular student I had was havin alot of problems w/ flinch. He anticipated the gun goin off & recoiling.The only thing in the end that seemed to help him was to keep loadin mags & runnin rapid fire while tryin to keep his eyes open when the gun goes off to help his follow through. It helped him to stop bein afraid of recoil & helped him follow through with his shots. Taught him to concentrate on sights, Not the recoil
This is a good tip. Many years ago when I was in Marine boot camp the drill instructor did this to a couple of recruits that were bucking the rifle, expecting the shot. He wasn't as nice about it when their rifle jumped without firing. Marine DI's were not the nicest teachers.
Parts 1,2&3 are good to go back to basics from time to time. Thanks hickok45.
I am new to shooting and have been looking at many different videos and Hickok45 is by far the best at explaining things so that a novice like myself can understand and apply. Thanks Hickok45!
I’ve watch H45 for a couple of years now and this is the first time I’ve seen this video. I struggle with this issue so I’ll load a few dummy rounds as you demonstrated. Thank you.
These videos are so fantastic. "I'm a doctor, not a shooter" (tribute to Dr. McCoy). I started shooting a while ago, and I disliked the Glock and LOVED the 1911. In watching your videos, I decided to give the Glock another try--GREAT GUN. Thank you.
I loved this series. I think anyone that shoots a pistol can take away something from these. As someone who has not shot pistols very much, I have learned much. I am going to encourage my wife to watch these as well. Thanks hickok!
Might I mention that a small time ammo manufacturer will produce dummies that are far cheaper than store bought. Hickok, I have the same problem. Sometimes I even mix 9 dummies with 3 live. Great video.
It will probably take me several months to work through the videos, but Sir you are an inspiration. Thank you for your humble approach and for sharing your wealth of knowledge. God Bless!
Thanks so much for posting...this is exactly the problem that I have where I am shooting about 7:00-8:00 on the target and wide spread. I'll try the technique you described. It's helpful to know that others struggle with this as well.
These are timeless practical videos. Thanks Hickock45.
Actually, I've not picked on up. I might be going to a gun show today, so maybe I'll fondle one. I can't imagine it being any better than a regular Glock with the Talon grips that I use. Those serrations certainly look strange, but I hear they feel fine.
I have small hands and on top of that I mangled my shooting hand in a Mountain Bike accident years ago. I have to use my middle finger to shoot now. I have adapted quite well in spite of that. I am not anywhere near you and your accuracy but I am improving. These videos are informative and inspiring.Thank you very much. I appreciate it! I get a kick out them. God bless!
Hickok45.... since I came across your videos on TH-cam, over a year ago, my shooting technique has improved immensely. If I have a problem with some aspect of shooting, I look to see if you've covered it, which you probably have. But the problem is, once I start watching your videos, I can't stop, which means I'm up until the wee small hours. Your enthusiasm is catching. Thank you from Bonnie Scotland. I might start my own channel and call it MacHickok 45. Och aye the noo. 😂👍🏼
Hickok can make any gun more accurate
As a new shooter, this series is great. Maybe I can add a tip for other new shooters. After 250-300 rnds at the range, my back hurt, my grip was tired and my hold was shakey. A home exercise that seems to be starting to help: Using the 3 stances, I approximate a good grip on a dumb bell and raise it to the firing position and hold it as long as possible. 3 or 4 reps, ~ 5 times a day seems to be helping me in my last couple of range trips. Good luck all.
I went through the same problem. Once I nailed down, worked, on my grip and controlling my muzzle flip I was able to focus on trigger control. As you briefly mentioned, trigger break can not be anticipated (jerk), but follow thru is highly important, the bullet still has to leave the barrel. At times at 21' targets, I have managed to actually see my bullets impack on the target, at the time of the shot. When that happens, I go to Ready Pistol, and analyze myself as to what I did right, and try again. Another great video, thanks.
hickock45, your videos and others here have made me a much better handgun shooter over the last month or so, much thanks!
I had flinch when I first started shooting, doesn't help I learned with a .45lc.
I used to Randomly leave 1-3 empty rounds in and spun the cylinder (single action) and practiced until flinch is gone.
Flinch destroys accuracy in a huge way, flyers are embarrassing and a telltale sign you need more practice.
I have almost no flinch shooting .454 Casull now, but after the first round, the adrenaline kicks in and I get a little bit of the shakes and DA is a bear to master on that gun! I'm still learning the foot long 20lbs trigger pull with a concussive surprise break!
I'm still no sharp shooter though.
I love how humble he is.
What great advice. The low-left misses you describe are exactly what I experience. Thanks for lesson.
Thanks for the videos, watched all 3 and they helped me alot. Im from the UK so with our stupid gun laws I dont get to shoot as much as id like so got to make range time count. Keep up the good work
Hey Hickok. I noticed how you called the handgun a "machine". I want to let you know how much I appreciate you calling it that. I honestly feel that if more people saw guns simply as a machines, our right to bear arms wouldn't be in so much trouble. I wish people would call guns "Machines" more often. It takes away all the negativity that's villainizing them, and turns it into a mere piece of equipment. which is exactly what they are.
Excellent info, I'm a new shooter who also just got a new pistol. A buddy of mine, who's a retired police officer and firearm instructor pretty much said the exact same thing.
I wanted to thank you Hickok45. You suggested snap caps and man it works great. I posted a video response to show how bad I did it on one pull. Amazing. Thanks very much for all your time and effort. Really appreciate it!!
I believe you have identified one of my main shooting problems. Now that it is identified, I can work toward solving it. Thank you for the fine explanation on maintaining trigger control.
On rimfire guns, you're correct. Since the firing pin on a rimfire gun strikes the very edge of the casing to ignite the primer, without a round in the chamber the pin can actually strike the inside of the reciever. With centerfire guns, on the other hand, it's very rare that dry-firing will cause any damage. Some guns may vary, of course, so don't take my word as gospel. But IN GENERAL, you should be able to dry-fire centerfire guns without any problems.
I tell my class the better way to think about it is "Pressing" the trigger or "Pressing" the shot, not pulling or squeezing. Students can easily translate "squeezing" into the wrong "concept" or "context" of the actual proper mechanics of trigger manipulation. They seem to get the concept better when you refer to it in that way. :)
Yes, there r a couple techniques.1 is to point ur index finger at a object focus on the object, look down ur finger at it.Close ur left eye first if ur right handed. If the finger appears to have not moved, ur right eye dominant. If it did appear to move, then try closing your right eye first, if your finger didn't seen to moved then your left eye dominant. Even though your holding ur hand still closing ur non dominant eye will make ur finger appear to move. .2 way is to-continued in next post-
I'm probably never going to fire a gun, but it's interesting to learn about all of the different techniques used.
This helped me so much! I was totally missing the target with my 38 special and couldn't figure out why, I almost sold it. After seeing this video there all in the target now, one right on the red in the middle! Thanks!!!
No flinch, just a little twist. NICE JOB!!!
Dummy round idea.. FANTASTIC!
Great video. The video you have with FateofDestinee shooting a 44mag was awesome as well. She is one cool customer. Can you say ZERO flinch. It gave me chills.
Excellent!!! I have been making sooo many mistakes...I cant wait to get to the range and start practising what just learned.
Hickok.....you are a Gentleman, a Scholar, and a judge of fine Women.
Thanks for taking the time to make this video.
Thanks for producing the videos. I watched all 3 and learned something new.
Excellent video series, I appreciate you taking the time to make all 3 parts. You can never stop learning with firearms and especially when it come to pistol shooting techniques.
I have a saying I like to spread around. "Every gun has the potential to be the best, most reliable, most accurate gun around. Some just require more tweaking, or smithing, than others."
Found I have a problem flinching. Got to try this....Love the videos
Read the manual for your specific firearm. Generally, for centerfire pistols & rifles, no, dry fire will not harm them.
With rimfires, when there is no cartridge rim to absorb the blow, the firing pin may possibly strike the edge of the chamber (and gradually cause damage over time). This has fixed in many modern rimfires; again check the manual for your specific firearm.
@TheGJenny45 , You might try the Ruger SR9c if you need a smaller grip. Also, if you need a smaller gun than these, the Kahr is a very shootable 9mm for such a small gun.
Great presentation. I've been shooting for 15 years and I still jerk the trigger sometimes, specially during rapid fire. The exercise shown here I do as well too. Now im training my wife, she has never shot before. I just recorded her in these days and was impressive for her first time. Its loaded in my new gun related channel.
Just wanted to thank you sir ! Your videos have taught me a lot about shooting glocks and glocks in general. Your the man ! Keep up the great content.
You have great passion for firearms.
This man is a national treasure!
thank you, i'm shooting exactly at 7 o'clock consistently
Reminds me of my second day (ever) at a pistol range. Getting frustrated with recoil anticipation (the range operator told me about it, when looking at my targets) I tried something: loose grip and trigger. Just aiming it then gently pulling the trigger. It helped. Lousy idea for the way to do it and I don't intend to practice that, but it fits with what Hickock45 said: all that matters is the sights are on the target when the trigger is pulled.
@stefpotej, Only if the shooter is better than the gun, which is not that common, at least for standing and shooting, which is all that matters to most people in a defensive handgun.
Not sure about the small hands. I know that shooting low left is very common for most right-handed shooters, at least when they are not totally focused.
Dear Sir. I enjoy watching all your videos. Absolut fun.
Especially the one with the trigger control helped me a lot to improve my shooting results.
Thanks a lot.
What a great idea. Whoever thought of this is genius
Yes, I believe that is what it's called. I just bought it a couple of days ago.
Love the holster. Galco summer comfort. Great value, worth every penny. Excellent video. Keep em coming so I can cancel my satellite TV and just watch shooting videos instead.
Superb vid Mr Hickok, thumbed and faved. You are dead right about anticipating the recoil etc. Ive only fired a couple of hundred 9mm rounds at the range so far. On my first shots I couldn't hit an A4 sheet of paper at 10 yards. I thought the gun had been loaded with blanks!
Once I started getting used to the bang slap, I found I was shooting low by forcing the muzzle down ( to compensate for the flip).
After 50 rounds, the groups started to tighten up a lot more.
Thanks again.
People confused me (as a new shooter) by using that old term "anticipating recoil", when recoil didn't bother me mentally. It didn't make sense until I studied trigger control and I realized it wasn't the recoil I was "anticipating", but rather the trigger break. I didn't become a decent shot until I stopped trying to find the trigger break and thinking about the break point. When I mentally detached myself from finding the break point and let it happen on its own I stopped jerking triggers.
That is a great drill Hickok! Another tool in the tool belt.
3000 rounds later still was flinching, all in the mind, 100%. Getting better but revolvers are no issue and he says. Long hard pull seems to negate the flinch 100%.
This is a great little drill Hickok thank you!
I also feel it helps to give your mind something to think about while shooting. I say "Front sight" over and over in my head while shooting, it keeps me from over thinking the shot, keeps the hands steady.
Strength and bone mass can never equate with metal: Shooting a pistol is a bit like operating a precision machine from the end of a pool noodle.
Great tip! The instructors at Tiger Swan recommended a similar drill called the Ball and Dummy drill, which they say is the best way to fix trigger control. A really smart way to train
The best/only worthwhile accuracy video I've seen, Thanks!
1POINT I teach my class is havin BOTH EYES open is better in a defensive situation for the reason of not getting trapped in that tunnel vision.Bad guys travel in packs. keeping both eyes open helps to have more awareness of ur surroundings being trapped in tunnel vision could impair u to deal with multiple threats. What does it mean for accuracy?Long as ur dominant eye is locked on that front sight this doesn't hinder u whatsoever. It also helps in target transition. All top instructors agree.