Training to be prepared for self-defense shooting is probably the most critical thing a person can do to defend themselves. Not just training, but repetitive, consistent practice that makes shooting second nature, can make all the difference in a self-defense situation. While having the right, well-maintained equipment is important; possessing the ability to hit the target is essential. Drills can give a person the confidence and proficiency to always hit the mark, and with routine practice, it can keep those skills honed and ready for when they are needed.
One of these drills is commonly referred to as the Bill Drill. The exercise requires drawing from a holster and hitting the target six times in three seconds, while seven feet away. The distance and timing may sound daunting, but with regular practice and training, repetition of the Bill Drill can help even the most novice shooter succeed. Many experts agree that this drill is the one to choose when deciding on one.
There are other drills to choose from to refine a shooter’s skills. When doing any drill, try to be comfortable with appropriate actions after a misfire, rapid reloading, “punching out” before a shot instead of “swooping” when bringing up the weapon. Become familiar with the fact that a person will usually shoot where they are looking, especially in close situations.
Some other less common drills to perfect should include becoming comfortable drawing from a holster. Drawing from multiple holsters and becoming proficient at each will ingrain the steps into a routine that is a natural feeling. It sounds simple, but when hindered by concealment, clothing, and speed, it is not as easy as it sounds.
Another avenue people should consider when deciding which drills to work on is realizing that conditions in society will now be the same as conditions in the firing range. There may be other challenges present that will need to be analyzed and overcome.
It’s important to practice putting different limits on yourselves. Become comfortable reloading magazines into the gun, or even reloading the ammo into the magazine “blind” or in the dark. Reloading, without your natural sight, may become crucial in a self-defense situation. Additionally, practice using one-hand shooting or weaker-hand shooting. Standing still while shooting can give an attacker an ideal target, so shooting while stepping right or left or even dropping to the ground are other challenges to consider after feeling comfortable with standard drills.
Whatever drill or drills that you choose to practice, the key to success is repetition. With enough practice, a firearm can feel like an extension of oneself, and aiming accurately at a target will become as natural as pointing a finger, or taking a step.