Aiming

by
posted on August 6, 2012
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
wiley-clapp.jpg

This question came up in a combat range discussion not long ago. Indeed, when does the aiming process begin? Most present said something about aiming beginning when the gun is at the full extension of the arm and the front sight is visible. Possibly, but I think it happens earlier in the sequence. As a matter of fact, I can make a pretty good argument for aiming beginning at the moment you realize you need to shoot.

In this sense, aiming begins wherever your gun might be on your person and a threat presents itself. It can include the draw if the gun is holstered, but either way, you must establish a positive firing grip. Without a proper grip, which aligns the handgun correctly in the hand, you cannot get a proper view of the sight system.

Hopefully, you will get level ground without obstacles around wherever the fight starts on which to get your stance, but hopefully I will also start getting younger any day now (not going to happen). The point is that good training will create good tactical and gunhandling skills that become habit. And they are part of the procedure that happens in a flash under stress and leads to the quick sight picture—the aim—that saves your bacon. This only comes with training.

Latest

Trump Atf Reforms F
Trump Atf Reforms F

How the Trump Administration is Reforming the ATF

After more than a year of review, the DOJ, and its sub-agency, the ATF, released 34 notices of final and proposed rules to eliminate infringements on Americans’ Second Amendment rights.

A Tale of Two Grips: Building Beyond the First Shot

Every shooter has two grips living inside them, and most never realize it until they are exposed by a timer.

Roni Corporation Establishes U.S.-Based Manufacturing

Roni Corporation—designer and manufacturer of the Micro Roni, PDW-style pistol-to-carbine conversion kits and other firearm accessories—has established U.S.-based operations and manufacturing in Houston, Texas.

PenFed Credit Union Reports Strong Q1 Growth in 2026

Continuing its record of positive growth over the last several years, NRA partner PenFed Credit Union reported increases in capital and liquidity, earning growth and credit quality through the first quarter of 2026.

I Have This Old Gun: Model 1884 Trapdoor Springfield

The U.S. military's first official breechloading service rifle was the Trapdoor Springfield, and of the line of guns that saw use throughout the late 19th century, one of the most refined was the Model 1884 Trapdoor.

A Retro Python: The Pietta Blacktooth Revolver

As the company did with the original Colt Single Action Army, Pietta sought to reproduce the Colt Python as closely to the original as possible with its new Blacktooth revolver.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.