When it comes to target shooting with a rifle, there are a few best practices that you should always keep in mind in order to ensure accuracy and, most importantly, safety.
1. Know your rifle.
Get to know your rifle inside and out. This includes understanding how your rifle works, how to clean and maintain it, and what kind of ammunition it uses.
The more familiar you are with your rifle, the easier it will be for you to handle it properly and in a safe manner.
2. Practice target shooting regularly.
Shooting is a skill that must be honed through regular practice. Find a safe space where you can get comfortable with your rifle and practice often. The more you shoot, the better you will become at hitting your targets.
Shoot at different distances, from different positions, and in different weather conditions. This will help you be prepared for anything that might come up when you are out in the field. Practice makes perfect!
3. Always use a proper stance when shooting.
A proper shooting stance will help you stay steady and increase your accuracy. You will want to practice target shooting in both standing and seated positions.
When standing, make sure your feet are shoulder-width apart, your knees have a slight bend to them, and your weight is evenly distributed. Your body should be straight and square to the target with a slight forward lean.
When seated, have a sturdy platform to rest your rifle on and keep your feet flat on the ground. Your upper body should, again, be straight and square to the target with a slight forward lean.
In both positions, make sure the buttstock is making good contact with your shoulder to prevent injuries and instability.
4. Use the proper grip.
Again, this will help with your accuracy. Grip the rifle firmly but not too tightly, and make sure your trigger finger is positioned correctly.
For more details on proper grip and stance, check out this target shooting lesson from Top Shot Chris Cheng
5. Focus on the front sight.
The front sight should be in sharp focus, while the rear sight and target should be slightly blurred. This will help you align the sights properly and take a more accurate shot.
6. Breathe deeply and evenly.
Don’t rush your shots! If you can, take a deep breath and steady yourself before squeezing the trigger. Deep, even breaths will help you stay calm and steady while shooting.
Take a deep breath and hold it while you align the sights on the target. Exhale slowly and gently squeeze the trigger while maintaining focus on the front sight. The shot should surprise you when it goes off. If you anticipate the shot, you are likely to flinch and throw off your aim.
7. Squeeze the trigger, don’t pull it.
Squeezing the trigger slowly and evenly will result in a much more accurate shot than jerking or pulling the trigger.
You should also always practice good trigger discipline. This means keeping your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
8. Follow through
Once you’ve squeezed the trigger, don’t move until the shot has been fired and the bullet has left the barrel.
9. Practice safety at all times.
Shooting is a fun and enjoyable activity, but it is also very dangerous. Always handle firearms with care and treat them with the respect they deserve.
Always be aware of your surroundings. Know your target and know what is beyond your target. Being mindful of what’s going on around you will help ensure that you don’t accidentally shoot something or someone that you didn’t intend to.
Never point your firearm at anything you are not willing to destroy.
10. Have fun!
Shooting should be enjoyable, so make sure to relax and have fun while doing it.
By following these practices, you can help ensure that your target shooting experience is safe and fun. With these simple tips, you can become a better marksman and enjoy target shooting more safely.
Happy shooting!
Call us at (360) 559-6210 for more information, and visit our Build Your Own Rifle page to get your custom build!