PRACTICAL PISTOL
Basic Course
(FULL BORE)
T R A I N I N G G U I D A N C E
N O T E S
2007
Page 1
INTRODUCTION
Practical Pistol shooting is pistol shooting with a difference. Whereas the traditional shooting sports follow a
particular form of competition, in set times and with set procedures, Practical allows a freestyle performance,
often, but by no means always, in your own time and sometimes with reloads and movement during the course
of fire.
Today Practical Pistol shooting is a World championship Sport. The parent administrative body is the
International Practical Shooting Confederation; under which there over sixty member countries.
Practical Pistol is a sport based on the original concept of the Pistol for Self Defence. Skills are summarized as;
DILIGENTIA, VIS, CELERITAS, which stand for, ACCURACY, POWER, SPEED, all in equal balance.
Practical Pistol typically seeks to pose, various problems and leaves the shooter to solve them. Some aspects
are described by real life terminology, i.e. we talk about the body, or head of the target. We talk about hard and
soft cover. These are easily recognizable terms and are convenient to use. Nevertheless it should be remembered
always, that Practical Pistol is a paper punching sport with excitement, and not in any way a practice for real life
situations.
COURSE OUTLINE.
The following pages contain a number of sections designed to give you the shooter, the basic information of
what is required to help you pass the U.K.P.S.A. Basic Safety Course and become Competition Ready.
SECTION 1.
SAFETY RULES AND PROCEDURES.
SECTION 2.
THE WORKINGS OF FIREARMS AND CARTRIDGES.
SECTION 3.
STRIPPING, CLEANING AND MODIFICATIONS.
SECTION 4.
EQUIPMENT AND DIVISIONS.
SECTION 5.
FOUR BASIC ELEMENTS.
SECTION 6.
HANDLING DRILLS.
SECTION 7.
MALFUNCTIONS.
SECTION 8.
POSITIONS, TURNS AND AMBIDEXTROUS CHANGE OVER.
SECTION 9.
RANGE PROCEDURES AND DISCIPLINE.
SECTION 10
PRE-MATCH PREPARATION.
SECTION 11
RECOMMENDED PRACTICES.
SECTION 12.
CONCLUSIONS.
Page 2
SECTION 1
BASIC RULES.
Always point the gun in a safe direction and never at any person.
Always prove the gun is unloaded whenever you draw it, pick it up, hand it to, or take it from any person.
Never finger the trigger unless you are ready to fire, even during dry practice.
Always make safe, any loaded gun before returning it to the holster.
Never load the gun until you are ready to use it on the line, and are instructed to do so.
Always make safe any loaded gun before any movement on the line.
A dropped gun, loaded or empty, at any time during the course of fire, or during loading or unloading,
results in disqualification from the entire match.
A muzzle pointed in an unsafe direction (even during a fall) results in disqualification.
A negligent discharge, other than towards the target during a string of shots, results in disqualification.
Guns must not be handled, at any time, behind the firing line, except in the safety area.
No rounds, including drill and blank rounds are permitted to be handled in the safety area at any time. The rules
allow them to be carried in a pouch but under no circumstances must they be handled or touched while in the
Safety Area.
Any competitor under the influence of drink or drugs, WILL be required to leave the range, and therefore be
disqualified from the event
FOR FULL RULES, SEE I.P.S.C. COMPETITION RULES.
(AVAILABLE ON THE INTERNET)
COURSE RULES
All above rules plus the following,
Any student, who points the muzzle of his firearm at any other student, or the Instructor at any time, will fail
to classify.
Any student who breaks any of the above rules will be expelled from the course by the Senior Instructor
present.
REMEMBER ACCIDENTS WITH FIREARMS ARE NOT CAUSED BY LACK OF KNOWLEDGE
OR IGNORANCE, BUT BY CARELESSNESS.
FIREARMS CAN KILL
Page 3
SECTION 2
THE WORKINGS OF FIREARMS AND CARTRIDGES.
It is generally agreed that for Practical Pistol shooting the best gun is a Major Calibre Self Loading Pistol.
Alternatives are Minor Calibre Self Loading Pistols and Revolvers which can be used with limited success.
The difference between Major and Minor is defined by the Power Factor of the Firearm.
To determine the Power Factor, we use the formula,
The weight of the bullet head in GRAINS.
X
By the Velocity of the bullet in FEET PER SEC
1000
Power Factors are based loosely on what you would expect from a standard factory produced bullet and
have been set at,
MINOR POWER FACTOR.
125-169.99.
MAJOR POWER FACTOR.
170.00 AND ABOVE.
Example.
124 Grain head multiplied by 1050FPS divided by 1000, equals to a Power Factor
of 130, therefore MINOR.
160 Grain head multiplied by 1100 FPS divided by 1000, equals a Power Factor of
176, therefore MAJOR
There is one exception to this rule which will be explained under the differ ent ‘DIVISIONS’
within Practical Pistol.
For example, 45 ACP is usually Major while 9mm is usually Minor.
SELF LOADING PISTOL
By definition this is a pistol which continues to loads itself after the first bullet, or round has been inserted into
the chamber as described below.
A MAGAZINE, which holds the rounds of Ammunition is held in the FRAME of the gun. To Load the first
bullet, or Round, the shooter pulls the top of the gun called the SLIDE to the rear. This action of the slide, cocks
the HAMMER. When the slide is released, an internal spring called the RECOIL SPRING drives the slide
forward. As it does so, the slide picks up the top round from the magazine and feeds it up the FEED RAMP
into the CHAMBER which is the rear part of the BARREL. When the TRIGGER is pressed, the hammer falls
striking the FIRING PIN which then strikes the PRIMER in the base of the round. The primer ignites the
POWDER PROPELLANT and the gases given off, drive the bullet head down the barrel. Due to Newton’s
Second Law of Motion the cartridge case is driven backwards, forcing the Slide back. The CARTRIDGE
CASE is then hooked, and held by its RIM by the EXTRACTOR ARM which is attached to the slide. As the
case and slide move backwards, the hammer is cocked, the recoil spring is compressed and the case is thrown
out of the EJECTION PORT by the EJECTOR. The gases created vent via the barrel muzzle, and the ejection
port. When the slide hits the back of the frame it stops moving, the recoil spring then drives the slide forward
again and the cycle repeats.
The cycle will continue each time the trigger is pressed until the magazine is empty or a mechanical fault stops
the action.
SEE PAGE 4.
Page 4
Page 5
REVOLVERS
A REVOLVER again by definition has a REVOLVING CYLINDER with contains a number of chambers
which hold one round in each. When the trigger is pressed the cylinder revolves, and the HAMMER moves
backward towards its COCKED POSITION. The cylinder locks into position with a chamber in line with the
FORCING CONE at the rear of the barrel. The hammer then falls and the firing pin strikes the PRIMER at the
base of the round. The round ignites and the bullet is forced into the barrel via the Forcing Cone by the
expanding gases, exiting the barrel at the muzzle. When the trigger is pressed again the sequence repeats. When
all the rounds have been fired the empty cases must be ejected manually. This action is called DOUBLE
ACTION. Alternatively, the hammer may be cocked fully by hand which also rotates the cylinder. This time
when the trigger is pressed the hammer falls immediately. This is called SINGLE ACTION. The difference
between single and double action is that single action has a lighter trigger pressure. -
Page 6
SECTION 3
FIREARM CLEANING
When a firearm is fired it accumulates residue formed from oil, carbon, lead, unburnt powder, etc. It must be
cleaned so that it will function properly and not rust or deteriorate.
The items required are :
1 - Cleaning rod,
2 - Phosphor bronze brush,
3- Cleaning cloth patches,
4 - Powder solvent,
5 - Gun oil.
Make sure you clean the gun as per the manufacturer’s instructions, and follow the rules described in the
course. Remember that a firearm costs a lot of money and if it is cleaned regularly and properly then it will last
a lot longer.
The golden Rule to remember, before cleaning a firearm is
Prove empty.
Clean only on your own,
Do not have any distractions and NO AMMUNITION OF ANY SORT.
MODIFICATIONS
Only get modifications done by a competent gunsmith.
Suggested modifications to a self loading pistol are,
1.
2.
3.
4.
5
6
7.
8.
9.
Adjustable sights.
Extended slide release.
Extended ambidextrous safety catch.
Beavertail grip safety.
Commander Hammer.
Magazine chute.
Extended magazine release - if shooter has difficulty reaching the standard one.
Good trigger job down to 3lbs trigger pull.
Feed ramp and chamber modified to accept Semi Wadcutter bullets.
On a revolver usually all that is required is a good trigger job.
It should be remembered that you can compete with a standard gun and that these modifications are only
personal preference.
Page 7
SECTION 4
EQUIPMENT AND DIVISIONS.
THE GUN
This is down to personal choice. The recommendation is for a self loading pistol of Major Calibre, eg. 45 ACP,
or 40 Cal Major pistols. Other types of self loading Pistols are available such as 9mm Parabellum, which can be
used in competition, but score a lesser value due to their Minor Power Factor. Revolvers can also be used, but
lose out on capacity of ammunition and speed of reload. The Minimum bullet size is 9mm or .38 Cal, anything
less than this will not count towards scoring.
THE HOLSTER
The best you can afford, remember false economy in this sport could at worst g et you killed, or at best
get you disqualified.
The holster must,
a) have a covered trigger guard.
b) retain the gun securely.
c) have the butt of the gun level with the trouser belt.
d) have no tie down attached. (if so it MUST be used)
e) hold the gun at such an angle, that the muzzle points at the ground within one metre of the competitors feet.
The best advice is to purchase from a reputable and well known manufacturer of Practical Pistol equipment.
MAGAZINES AND SPEED LOADERS
Again buy good quality and a minimum of four.
POUCHES.
The same quality as the holster, and enough to hold ALL your magazines on the firing line.
THE BELT
This belt must be at waist level upon which the holster and allied equipment must be carried. Ladies only, may
have the belt at hipbone level. The belt is the foundation of a good rig so get the best you possibly can.
EAR DEFENDERS
What price your hearing ? Buy the best and always wear them.
EYE DEFENDERS
Again, what price is your eye sight ? Buy the best and always wear them.
DIVISIONS
There are FIVE Divisions in which the Shooter may complete depending on the type of
Firearm, and the modifications that have been carried out to it.
They are,
Open Division
1 Minimum power factor for Major 160
2 Minimum power factor for Minor
Page 8
Standard Division
125
1 Minimum power factor for Major 170
2 Minimum power factor for Minor 125
Modified Division
1 Minimum power factor for Major 170
2 Minimum power factor for Minor 125
Production Division
1 Minimum power factor for Major Not applicable
2 Minimum power factor for Minor 125
Revolver-Standard Division
1 Minimum power factor for Major 170
2 Minimum power factor for Minor 125
For further information and the rules governing each division, please consult the RULE BOOK
available on the Internet.
Page 9
SECTION 5
THE F O U R B A S I C ELEMENTS OF MODERN HANDGUN TECHNIQUES
1
2
3
4
The Weaver Stance and two handed grip.
The Draw.
Use of sights and the Flash Sight Picture.
Trigger control and the Compressed Surprise Break.
THE WEAVER STANCE
The Weaver Stance turns the pistol into a rifle - shot from the right shoulder and braced from elbow by the left
arm and hand (naturally left handed shooters switch right and left). The left hand resists both weight and recoil
and its pressure is rearward rather than upward. It has been found to be the most effective stance to control the
recoil of Major Calibre guns. It also allows the most flexibility of movement.
1.
Stand -feet almost 45° to target, weak foot advanced.
2,
Two hand grip. Take normal strong hand grip, (muzzle in line with forearm), weak hand
wrapped around strong. Weak forefinger NOT on trigger guard, (see note below) both
thumbs overlapped, weak on top of strong.
3,
Normal trigger finger position ( pad, for single action pistols, crease for all double actions ).
Apply trigger pressure straight back towards base of thumb.
4,
Strong arm as near straight as possible, weak hand grip as high as possible (not underneath).
Weak elbow low and as far toward, and underneath the strong arm as possible. To help
achieve this, bring weak shoulder forward. About 15lbs pressure is generated between weak
hand pulling and strong hand pushing, tension just short of the shakes, if properl y held
muzzle should not rise more than an inch on recoil with full loads. Strong hand grip on pistol
should be medium firm.
NOTES
There are two good reasons why not to use the left finger on the trigger guard, or have your hand under the butt
of the gun.
1 If called to fire over hard cover, resting the gun may trap your finger(s) against the cover upsetting accuracy
by causing abnormal recoil, especially important if using extended magazine bumpers.
2. It is possible to adversely apply pressure to right or left in the heat of the moment and move the gun off
target. (the same set of errors that can be caused by your trigger finger).
Page 10
THE DRAW
If your draw has been self taught, it may be dangerous.
The following has been established as the best and safest method of drawing a firearm from the Holster. It
is based on FIVE DEFINITE MOVEMENTS.
STAGE 1.
Strong hand grip gun in holster, free snap if any. All three fingers into good firing grip, thumb on safety catch.
Trigger finger straight down the outside o f holster.
STAGE 2.
Strong hand only. ‘Break leather’ ( lift muzzle just clear of holster ), trigger finger on to, and parallel with the
slide of the firearm. Revolvers along side of frame.
STAGE 3.
Pivot wrist so that muzzle is facing target. Advance gun towards target ensuring that the WEAK HAND
remains behind the firearm as it moves to join the strong hand in a full grip. Muzzle on target.
STAGE 4.
Hands together in firing grip. Finger now onto trigger fo r r evo l ver s, b u ild u p p re s s ure s.
STAGE 5.
Up into aim, make any final adjustments to grip, safety off for pistols, finger onto trigger (full Weaver Stance).
NOTE
1. Practice slowly so then when the drill is perfected you can then build speed to one smooth movement in
about ONE second.
2. Be careful not to allow any fingers or thumbs to touch the magazine release especially if it is
of the extended type, in case the grip inadvertently releases the magazine.
SIGHTS
It is impossible for the human eye to focus on three things at once which are at various distances from the eye.
So when using the sights to align on a target, we must select the best option. If you focus on the target the
foresight is blurred and the rear sight is obscured. If you focus on the rear sight the foresight is blurred and the
target is obscured. If you focus on the foresight the target is blurred and the rear sight is blurred, but the outline
of both are visible so this is the best option. The tip of the foresight should be level with the top of the rear sight
notch and there should be the same gap on either side of the foresight in the rear sight notch.
Page 11
THE FLASH SIGHT PICTURE
For Practical pistol there is often no time to obtain perfection so we must accept a sight picture related to time
available. But front sight must be visible, focus must be on the front sight.
Time + Distance v Sight Picture
Develop the ability to recognize the sight picture that for you will give you consistent bulls at various times and
distances.
The following are suggestions that you should achieve as your standard.
RANGE
TIME
N0, OF SHOTS
SUGGESTED SIGHT PICTURE
5 Yards
1 sec
1
Flash sight picture foresight
7 Yards
1 sec
1
Flash sight picture foresight
7 Yards
2 sec
2
Flash sight picture both sights
15 Yards
2 sec
2
Front sight visible in rear sight
20 Yards
3 sec
2
Sights into alignment
25 Yards
5 sec
2
Perfect sight picture
50 Yards
6-8 sec
2
Perfect sight picture
At the last two distances the increased time allows for a perfect sight picture but with reduced wobble.
Then develop two personal time clocks,
A. “How long have I got” for fixed shoots. You know the time, so select the best sight picture.
B. “How long do I need” Comstock timing (your own time). Fast time must be balanced against score.
THE COMPRESSED SURPRISE BREAK
In normal slow fire we try for an open ended surprise break (no time limit, at least not by our standards).
In Practical Pistol, we speed up the process to obtain the same surprise break in an instant.
Practice as demonstrated on the course, slow progressive build up, arm movement and 1 to 5 count, reducing
count to 1 to 4, 1 to 3, 1 to 2, 1. Finally to less than 1 sec. It’s a trick and seems like a kindergarten exercise, but
it works. .
Method 1
Quadrant Trigger Control
1.
Clean gun and prove empty.
2.
Hold gun pointing in a safe direction . Cup elbow in weak hand.
3.
Move the gun in an arc from right to left across the body, counting 1 -2-3-4-5. Ensure that the
muzzle at all times points in a safe direction. Be especially careful at the ends of the arc.
Page 12
4.
During the movement apply increasing trigger pressure, the shot should break before the
final count
5.
The count and the arc are progressively reduced, the shot break coming
before the final count.
The trick in this, is that you are concentrating on movement and counting, and the trigger build up is not a
conscious act, with practice becoming automatic.
WARNING
IF PRACTISING WITH OTHERS WATCH YOUR MUZZLE DIRECTION ON FINAL COUNT.
FINGER POSITION
Single Action pistols.
‘PAD’ of finger on trigger.
ALL DOUBLE ACTIONS.
The Crease of First finger joint trigger.
Method 2
1.
Clean gun and prove empty.
2.
Point in a safe direction, muzzle parallel to the ground, elbow cupped by weak hand.
3.
Place an EMPTY CASE on top of the gun at the muzzle.
4.
Dry fire the gun without the case falling off the gun.
Page 13
SECTION 6
U.K.P.S.A. DRILLS
1 - Prove Clear.
2 - Initial Load.
3 - Unload Show Clear.
4 - Gun Conditions.
5 – Reloading.
PROVING CLEAR, SELF LOADING PISTOL
1 - Take firing stance
2 - Pick up, take or draw gun. Point in a safe direction and lock the elbow of the strong hand into your side.
3 - Check safety catch, apply if possible. Check for magazine, remove if present (which it should not be ).
5 - Safety catch off.
6 - Grab rear of slide and rack open.
7 - Lock slide open.
8 - Check chamber is clear.
9 - Either leave open and set down or hand it to another person OR
10 -Release slide under control, aim in a safe direction and drop hammer, (by firing the action) apply safety
catch if possible, the holster gun.
PROVING CLEAR, REVOLVER.
123456-
Take firing stance.
Pick up, take or draw gun. Point in a safe direction. Finger down side of frame. Elbow locked into side.
Open cylinder ( using Cooper or Garland ).
Check all chambers are clear.
Either leave open and set down or hand it to another person OR
Close the cylinder and holster gun.
When handing a gun to someone else always prove it clear, and always hand it with the muzzle pointed in a
safe direction and with the slide locked open or the cylinder open. Only accept a gun from someone in the
same way.
If at the range, this should only be done either on the firing point under the supervision of an R.O, or in the
safety area, NOWHERE ELSE.
INITIAL LOAD. SELF LOADING PISTOL
METHOD 1
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Take firing stance with weak foot slightly leading.
Draw gun, finger on slide, muzzle on your target instantly, lock elbow into side.
Draw loaded magazine, insert into gun.
Rack slide to load chamber, apply safety, remove magazine and return to magazine pouch.
Draw second magazine and insert in gun.
Holster gun.
Top up first magazine with spare round from pocket or belt and return to pouch.
METHOD 2.
Steps 1 - 4 as for method 1
5. Holster gun.
6. Top up magazine with spare round from pocket or belt.
7. Draw gun, finger on slide, muzzle on target instantly, elbow into side.
8. Re-insert topped up magazine back into gun.
9. Reholster gun.
Page 14
UNLOADING SELF LOADING PISTOL
1. Step forward with weak foot.
2. Draw gun if necessary, finger on slide, muzzle on target, lock elbow into side.
3. Remove magazine and slip between ring finger, and little finger of gun hand.
4. Shift gun in hand so that thumb is underneath slide latch end, roll gun so that back sight is down and muzzle
slightly lifted, but still on target.
5. Reach across top of slide with weak hand and rack it to the locked, open position, catching round ejected
from chamber in the weak hand, or letting it fall to the ground. (Watch where it lands).
6. Present for inspection.
7. Inspect your own chamber! You are the one who is finally responsible.
8. Ease slide forward and drop hammer.
9 Reholster.
10. Pocket loose round (it is the one you will use to top up with at next reload).
11. Return magazine to pouch.
Note
T h e r e are 2 reasons for topping up the gun.
1. It increases the capacity of the gun.
2. It allows the shooter to know that the first round has loaded into the Chamber.
Commentary.
A, Elbow locked, finger out, muzzle downrange.
B. Don’t move your weak hand or arm in front of the muzzle while reaching to rack the slide.
C. Don’t worry if you drop the unloaded round. Concentrate on doing a neat job of locking the slide back.
Note
Do not drop slide, ease it forward. But do drop hammer, it is final safety check.
INITIAL LOAD REVOLVER
1. Take firing stance, with weak foot slightly leading.
2. Draw gun, finger dawn side of frame, muzzle on your target a n d lock elbow into side.
3 . O p e n c y l i n d e r , draw and insert speed loader using Cooper or Garland, or use loose rounds,
return cylinder to the closed and locked position.
4. Holster gun.
UNLOADING REVOLVER
1. Step forward with weak foot.
2. Lock elbow.
3. Open cylinder, eject rounds using Cooper or Garland Method.
4. Present gun with cylinder open.
5. Inspect your own cylinder! You are the one who is finally responsible.
6. Muzzle down, return cylinder and reholster.
Commentary
A. Elbow locked, finger alongside frame, muzzle downrange constantly.
B. Watch muzzle direction while ejecting rounds.
Page 15
GUN CONDITIONS
There are four main conditions a firearm can be in which we refer to in Practical Pistol.
They are:
Condition 1.
Full magazine in gun, round in chamber, hammer cocked, safety on.
then
Condition 2.
Full magazine in gun, round in chamber, hammer down, Safety on if possible. (Double
Action Pistols. Revolvers cylinder fully loaded, hammer down).
Condition 3.
Full magazine in gun, empty chamber, hammer down, safety on.
Revolvers empty cylinder, hammer down.
Condition 4.
The UKPSA safe carry rule.
NO magazine in gun, or EMPTY cylinder. No live rounds in the gun, ha mmer down,
safety on, if possible.
RELOADING SELF LOADING PISTOL
“Never shoot until the gun is empty”
Carry two magazines (at least) on hip with the rounds facing forward, in open pouch for fast reload, magazines
no deeper in pouch then last window and not too tight a fit.
PRACTISE SLOWLY, BUILD SPEED ONLY WHEN DRILL PERFECTED
Smooth and slow - better than a fast fumble.
If old magazine hangs up, wipe out, downwards with weak hand little finger after drawing new magazine.
Push Button Release - 3 count drill
1. Break grip weak hand on new magazine, straight forefinger down the front of the magazine, ready to touch
the first round. Strong hand, forefinger on the slide, shift the gun in the hand if required.
2. Draw the magazine and punch the magazine release with the strong hand thumb Feed the rear face of the new
magazine against the rear face of the magazine well. Roll the magazine forward into line with the well - feed it
in about 40mm (1.5”) Move your fingers out straight and push the magazine smartly home with palm of the
hand.
3. Resume the Weaver grip, shift focus back from targets to foresight.
Heel of Butt release - 5 count drill
1. Finger out of trigger guard, weak hand thumb on release with index looped over magazine lip.
2. Weak hand wipes old magazine out of way of new one.
Page 16
3. Draw fresh magazine, tip front nose of magazine in well.
4. Lever the release back with magazine and shove magazine smartly home.
5. Resume Weaver grip, focus on foresight.
RELOADING REVOLVERS
First learn to reload quickly without speed loaders, two or three rounds at a time.
Carry 6 or 12 rounds in belt loops, and first reloader in a position to suit method of reloading, ie. easily in reach
of loading hand, Cooper on weak side of body, Garland on strong side.
Method 1 - Garland - 6 count drill
1. Strong thumb operates cylinder latch, weak ring and middle fingers swing cylinder out and pass through
frame window, with weak index over top strap, trigger finger along frame, muzzle on target.
2. Swing butt down and eject with base of weak thumb while strong hand goes to speedloader.
3. Swing gun muzzle down towards target, align speedloader with chambers.
4. Release cartridges.
5. Wipe cylinder closed, but seat strong grip first.
6. Resume Weaver grip, focus on sights.
Method 2 - Cooper - 3 count drill
1. Strong thumb release cylinder latch, then move to hammer, weak fingers swing out cylinder .
Weak thumb press extractor rod. Hold gun muzzle up (shake out empties). Trigger finger along frame.
2. Turn pistol muzzle downwards, left hand draws speedloader. Insert and operate. Close cylinder firmly and
quickly, but not too hard (ensure all rounds are fully chambered first).
3. Resume Weaver grip - shift focus back from targets to foresight.
Notes
Magazines may stick on Colt type pistols for four reasons :
1.
2.
3.
4.
In
Fat magazine or tight well
Release button pushed too far in.
Top round dragged forward onto feed ramp.
Trigger bar distorted
either case, wipe it out with the hooked little finger of the weak hand AFTER drawing fresh magazine.
Clear cases which fail to eject from revolver with ring and little fingers of hand which is holding speedloader.
Page 17
SECTION 7
MALFUNCTIONS
Drilled in, “instant reaction” to a malfunction can save you the match.
Immediate Action.
Freeze - Muzzle Safe Direction
Think - What Action to clear malfunction.
Act
SEMI AUTOS
1. Misfire
Tap-Rack-acquire target-bang
2.. Stovepipe.
Wipe it out, carry hand back to shoulder, acquire target, bang.
3. Feed jam or inside ejection jam.
Lock slide back, wipe magazine out, TWO racks of the slide, reload, rack, acquire target, bang.
Commentary.
A.
One jam may lead to the next. You may produce a feed jam in clearing a stovepipe. Keep working
through the drills until you are back in action.
B.
If you see that you have cleared a feed jam by locking the slide back, feed a round and carry
on. If you see that you have cleared it by wiping the magazine out, reload and carry on.
Otherwise go through complete drill.
REVOLVERS.
1.
Misfire
Cycle past.
2. Cylinder will not rotate.
Swing cylinder out and return.
If it still does not rotate.
Swing cylinder out, advance one chamber, return.
If still unsuccessful, Eject and reload.
3. Cylinder will not open.
A. Check if binding at front or rear.
B. If at front (S&Ws) ejector rod has backed out.
C. If at rear, use force, advance one chamber.
4.
No charge in round.
Drive bullet back with rod from muzzle.
In malfunctions 3 & 4 it may well be better to call it quits at that stage and clear the malfunction
slowly under supervision of an R.O. to ensure that no accidents happen.
DO NOT LEAVE FIRING POINT UNTIL GUN IS CLEARED BY R.O.
Page 18
SECTION 8
POSITIONS
KNEELING.
Count 1
Normal Weaver stance. Strong hand grip gun in holster, free snap if any. All three
fingers in good firing grip. Thumb on safety catch, trigger finger along outside of
holster.
Count 2
Right hand only ‘Break leather’ ( lift muzzle just clear of holster ) trigger finger
onto slide. Revolvers finger along side frame.
Count 3
Advance gun half way, muzzle onto target.
Count 4
Down on strong knee, hands together in firing grip.
At this point if a braced kneeling position is required then sit back on right heel.
Count 5
Arms in Weaver position, look for sights. * At this point if a braced kneeling position is
required then place left elbow on left knee, either in front of knee joint or behind it.
Avoid putting elbow joint directly on top of knee joint as the arm will then slip about due
to the bone on bone contact.
Count 6.
Finger onto trigger, safety off.
Count 7
Compressed Surprise Break
.
Braced kneeling should be used for longer range shots where there is more time as it gives a good braced
shooting platform.
COOPER PRONE
Count 1
Normal Weaver stance. Strong hand grip gun in holster, free snap
if any. All three fingers in good firing grip. Thumb on safety catch, trigger finger along
outside of holster.
Count 2
Strong hand only ‘Break leather’ (lift muzzle just clear of holster) trigger finger onto
slide. Revolvers finger along side frame.
Count 3
Advance gun halfway, muzzle onto target.
Count 4
Lower your body down onto both knees, muzzle still on target.
Count 5
Roll your body forward onto the ground breaking fall with left hand at the same time
pushing gun forwards towards target, gun arm flat along ground. NB Do not allow weak
arm to go in front of firearm. Keep muzzle out of any mud, etc.
Hands together, Weaver type grip, roll spine to right, kick left foot over right knee,
Count 6
left knee on ground. (Left hand shooters reversed)
Count 7
For Pistols safety off, finger on trigger, Revolver take up trigger pressure, look for sights.
Count 8
Compressed Surprise Break.
Page 19
SITTING
Count 1.
Normal Weaver stance. Strong hand grip the gun in the holster, free snap if any. All
three fingers in good firing grip. Thumb on safety catch, trigger finger along outside of
holster.
Count 2.
Strong hand only ‘Break leather, (lift muzzle just clear of holster) trigger finger onto
slide. Revolvers finger along side frame.
Count 3.
Advance gun halfway, muzzle onto target. At this stage for pistols trigger finger still
on slide. Revolvers finger along gun frame.
Count 4.
Cross right foot across in front of left foot as in the Cowley 180° pivot.
Count 5.
Bend slightly forward keeping gun on target and allow both legs to bend. Lower your
body down onto the ground using the weak hand as an extra brace behind you to stop the
body rolling backwards.
Count 6.
Count 7
Hands together in firing grip.
Arms in Weaver position left elbow resting on inside of left knee, safety off for
pistols, Revolvers take up trigger pressure, look for sights.
Count 8
Compressed Surprise Break
TURNS
Some shooters can do almost 90° in a turret movement, but for greater than 45° turns, it is recommended that
foot movement be used.
There are two methods we can use to turn, one is stepping forward, and the second is stepping back.
The method of turn may be the individuals choice, or dictated by the course of fire, ie toes against
barrier.
On the following pages you will find a ‘FOOTPRINT DIAGRAM’ showing the two methods. Both methods
should be practiced, until the turn becomes one smooth movement without loss of balance.
REMEMBER, THE GUN CAN NOT BE DRAWN FROM THE HOLSTER UNTIL THE TURN IS
COMPLETED AS YOU MAY BREAK THE SAFETY ANGLE.
THE GRAY FOOT PRINT INDICATES THE POSITION OF THE FOOT AT THE START
OF THE MOVEMENT, IT IS THEN MOVED IN THE DIRECTION OF THE RED
ARROW TO COMPLETE THE MOVEMENT.
Page 20
TURNING 90% BY STEPPING BACKWARDS
LEFT TURN. MOVE LEFT FOOT BACK BEHIND RIGHT FOOT
APPROX SIX INCHES. PIVOT ON BALLS OF FEET TO THE LEFT,
WILL END UP BACK IN WEAVER.
FINISH
START
RIGHT TURN. MOVE RIGHT FOOT BEHIND LEFT AND PASS BY
APPROX SIX INCHES. PIVOT ON BALLS OF FEET TO THE RIGHT.
BENDING YOUR KNEES SLIGHTLY WILL HELP YOUR TURN.
START
Page 21
FINISH
TURNING 90% BY STEPPING FORWARD
RIGHT TURN. MOVE LEFT FOOT ACROSS IN FRONT OF RIGHT
FOOT AND SIX INCHES PAST. PIVOT ON BALLS OF FEET TO THE
RIGHT, WILL END UP BACK IN WEAVER.
START
FINISH
LEFT TURN. STEP FORWARD WITH RIGHT FOOT, PIVOT ON
BALLS OF FEET TO LEFT. WILL END UP BACK IN WEAVER
FINISH
Page 22
START
TURNING180%
RIGHT FOOT IN FRONT OF AND SIX INCHES TO LEFT SIDE
OF LEFT FOOT. PIVOT ON BALLS OF FEET THROUGH 180%
TO THE LEFT.
START
FINISH
COWLEY METHOD
LEFT FOOT BEHIND AND SIX INCHES TO SIDE OF RIGHT
FOOT. PIVOT ON BALLS OF FEET, BEND KNEES TO HELP
TURN
START
FINISH
COOPER METHOD
Page 23
AMBIDEXTROUS (WEAK HAND)
Strong to weak hand transfer.
Trigger finger onto slide, weak hand trigger finger onto slide lever. Unwrap fingers of strong hand from front of
butt and wrap fingers of weak hand around butt. Then put fingers of strong hand over those of weak hand. Then
release strong thumb and allow weak thumb to wrap around rear of butt and overlap strong thumb on top of
weak. Then finally trigger finger of strong hand over fingers of weak hand and trigger finger of weak hand
onto trigger. REMEMBER, THE SAFETY WILL BE OFF, KEEP FINGER AWAY FROM TRIGGER
AND THE MUZZLE MUST BE ON TARGET DURING CHANGE OVER.
MOVING POSITIONS
Remember always
1, Muzzle always on target.
2, Finger on slide (Revolver, finger along frame).
3, Apply safety catch before moving.
4, Always draw gun before going prone or kneeling due to muzzle position.
5, Always apply safety catch before changing hands.
6, Never draw the gun until you have completed a turn.
Remember the most important aspect of positional shooting is SAFETY. Always make sure that the gun is
drawn and the muzzle is pointed in a safe direction PRIOR, to adopting the shooting position and ONLY when
a turn has been completed.
Page 24
SECTION 9
RANGE PROCEDURES.
READY POSITIONS.
Normal Ready designates a position in which the gun is in its ready condition according to the Stage orders, and
the shooter’s hands are in the position stipulated for the event in question. Unless otherwise directed the
shooter’s posture shall be erect, relaxed and natural. “Artificial” ready positions shall not be tolerated; nor shall
‘creeping’ (moving the hand toward the gun before the signal to commence is given).
RANGE COMMANDS
“LOAD AND MAKE READY”. The shooter will face the targets, fit ear defenders, glasses, etc., load the
gun and make it ready. Note, All loading must be completed while facing down range The shooter will
then adopt the ready position as stipulated for the stage. If this involves facing away from the targets,, the
gun must be reholstered in the correct condition, SAFETY ENGAGED, if Revolver, hammer down and the
hands clear of the gun before the shooter turns away from the targets. Once the shooter has assumed the
START position, the RO will assume that he is ready and the next command will be given.
“ARE YOU READY”. If the shooter is not ready when this command is given, they must shout “NOT
READY”. To avoid any misunderstandings, it is suggested that, when the shooter takes up the ready
position, the last thing he does, after composing himself, is to place his hands in the ready position, as this
will be the indication to the RO that the shooter is ready.
“STAND BY”. This will be followed by the cue to commence firing, eg. a verbal “GO”, a BUZZER or
BLEEP or possibly the VISUAL CUE OF A TURNING TARGET. Short whistle blasts may, in certain
circumstances, be used for the commence fire and the cease fire signals. A prolonged whistle blast at any
time means “FREEZE”, and any person shooting will immediately stop and remain stationary until such
time as he receives further instructions from the RO.
WHEN A SHOOTER HAS COMPLETED THE REQUIRED COURSE OF FIRE, THE RO WILL SAY
IF FINISHED, UNLOAD AND SHOW CLEAR.
It is imperative that the muzzle be controlled during unloading. When the RO is satisfied that the gun is clear,
he will call, IF CLEAR, HAMMER DOWN, HOLSTER. The competitor must check for themselves that the
gun is clear by inspecting it for bullets. If a Semi Auto Pistol is being used, the competitor must point it in a
safe direction, and fire off the action as a final safety check.
The gun should then be holstered in the following conditions;
a) Revolver - CYLINDER COMPLETELY EMPTY (even of empty cases) and closed,. The hammer down.
b) SemiAuto Pistol - Slide forward, hammer down, magazine well empty and safety catch on if possible.
RANGE DISCIPLINE
Each shooter will be individually supervised by a Range Officer, who will check the condition of the gun when
it is holstered. In the event of a gun being holstered in the wrong condition the RO will place his hand on the
shooter’s shoulder and say “STOP”, the shooter will then “FREEZE” and receive an explanation from the R0.
After thinking about what he has to do, the shooter will slowly and carefully draw the gun and point it down
range. He will then correct its condition and reholster. It should be emphasized that there is no penalty involved
and there is “NO HURRY”.
During loading and unloading, and during remedial action in the event of malfunction, the muzzle of the
weapon must be continuously directed down range. Violations will result in disqualification from that stage.
A second infraction will result in disqualification from the remainder of the competition.
After shooting, no contestant may leave his firing position until so directed by the RO who has supervised the
unloading and reholstering of his gun.
Page 25
SECTION 10
PRE-MATCH PREPARATION.
Don’t forget matches can be lost in the gun room or on the loading bench.
1. Clean your gun and magazines before a match, check that your sights are clean and that all screws are tight.
2. Make sure that you have taken the correct ammo.
3. Check that you have your belt, holster, magazine or speed loaders and pouches, and of course your ear
muffs and shooting glasses.
4. Arrive early, watch other competitors shooting-and plan your shoot.
5. Study course rules, if not fully clear then ask the C.R.O. before shooting.
6. Do simple limbering exercises.
7. Use safety area, if available, to practice building up speed, and B. Think the ‘shoot’ through, and picture it in
your head.
9. Go to your firing point, mentally rehearse the stage. Think hard and aggressively to build up tension and
adrenaline for a sprinter’s start.
SECTION 11
RECOMMENDED PRACTICES
Most of the champions recommend firing a minimum of 150 rounds per week under qualified supervision. For
the intermediate shooters, the basic practice drill recommended by Jeff Cooper for graduates of his basic pistol
course is suggested. It should be practised weekly to sharpen the fundamentals. This is done in addition to the
practice required in preparation for a particular match The basic drill consists of the following :
1. Eight singles at seven yards, one-and-one-half seconds each. As this becomes easy, and groups average eight
inches, increase speed, working toward one second.
2. Ten singles at seven yards, one-and-one-half seconds each. As this becomes easy, increase distance one yard
at a time, working toward ten metres.
3. Ten singles at fifteen metres, two-and-one-half seconds each. Work out at two metre increments toward a
possible at twenty-five metres.
4. Five pairs at ten metres, two seconds each. As this becomes easy, increase speed, not distance.
5. Five quads at ten metres: two shots, reload and two shots. Allow eight seconds initially and work down to
five - all hits in the ring.
6. Three sextets at ten metres. Start with a 90° pivot and hit each of the three targets twice. Repeat twice for
eighteen rounds. Work toward a ‘possible’ in four seconds.
7. Two ‘Presidentes’. Three targets, three paces apart, at ten metres. Start with back toward centre target, pivot
180°, hit each target twice, reload and repeat for twelve shots. 2 x 12 = 24 shots in all. Each run is twelve shots.
SECTION 12
CONCLUSION
This course is only the first steps in your sport of Practical Pistol shooting. They are however the most
important steps, they are the foundation upon which you can build your skill. Practice as often as possible both
live and dry, and always listen to more experienced shooters if they give you advice. No matter how good you
are, you are not perfect and someone else can see faults that you cannot. But above all, remember SAFETY
FIRST.
BRAIN IN GEAR, BEFORE GUN IN HAND.
Good Luck and Good Shooting.
DVC