Practicing Defensive Shooting at 40 Feet: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to defensive firearms training, the 10-inch steel target from 40 feet has long been considered a standard among professional and recreational shooters. This challenge, while commendable, is just the first step in honing your defensive shooting skills. Let's explore why this drill is important and how you can enhance your proficiency by increasing the distance, target size, and firearm caliber. We will also delve into the practical aspects of shooting one-handed from behind cover, as well as the historical context of ambidextrous shooting.

Understanding the Standard

Consider the practice of hitting a 10-inch steel target from 40 feet. This distance of 13.71 yards places it at the ideal range for rapid follow-up shots. The drill teaches essential skills such as recoil control, maintaining a steady aim, and fostering a disciplined shooting technique. It is a fair and realistic standard that many defensive shooters can achieve with targeted practice. Once you master this level, you can escalate the challenge by moving the target farther or using smaller targets, or even increase the caliber of your firearm.
As you progress, try starting the drill from the holster, replicating a real-world scenario where you might need to draw your weapon quickly. The goal should be both practical and attainable for civilian self-defense shooters.

Skill Development through Distance and Difficulty

Starting with a 10-inch target at 40 feet is a solid foundation, but the journey to true proficiency in defensive shooting does not stop there. Consider shrinking the target to a 7-inch diameter and moving it to 15 yards. Your aim should be to achieve 6 hits in 6 shots in 5 seconds, 5 times out of 5. This is a significant improvement over the standards set by the FBI for their Q Course. Achieving this level of accuracy is a testament to your skill and dedication.

While 13.71 yards is a good starting point, gradually stretch your range to 15 yards and eventually work your way up to 25 yards. Consistent hits at these distances will better prepare you for realistic defensive situations. Real-world experience shows that if you can handle a 10-inch target consistently at 75 feet, you can still effectively engage a target at closer distances of just 5 feet. Even in the height of stress, your accuracy can remain high.

Shooting from Behind Cover: A Vital Skill

One of the key skills in defensive shooting is the ability to shoot from behind cover. This not only provides immediate protection but also allows you to use your non-shooting hand to shield the rest of your body. Consider that an injury to your shooting hand or arm can occur early in an encounter, possibly before you can even draw your weapon. Shooting a pistol with one hand was once a common practice, associated with the Wild West gunslingers of yore. However, dual-wielding and ambidextrous shooting were also standard practices in that era, offering a significant advantage in close-quarters combat.

One effective drill to improve your one-handed shooting skills is the HeadHunter’s 6×6 Drill. This drill involves shooting a target with one hand at a specific and concentrated area, developing hand-eye coordination and the ability to control the firearm effectively even when using only one hand. This is a crucial skill for any defensive shooter.

Historical Context of Ambidextrous Shooting

For a deeper understanding of the historical significance of ambidextrous shooting, consider the book The Best Caliber Wars: A History of Self-defense Ballistics, part of the Traditional American History Series. This book provides insights into the evolution of defensive ballistics and the various considerations that have influenced the choice of firearms and ammunition over time. Understanding this history can offer valuable context for modern shooters.

Conclusion

The journey to excellence in defensive shooting is a continuous process. Starting with a 10-inch steel target from 40 feet is a great way to develop foundational skills, but remember to push yourself beyond that standard. Gradually increase the distance and the challenge, incorporating drills like the 6×6 Drill, and developing your one-handed shooting skills from behind cover. The key is to stay consistent and dedicated to your practice, ensuring your skills are always up to date for any defensive situation you may face.