Tips for a rusty shooter?

[newTexan]

Hi guys,

I did my taxes the other day and when I saw the refund I'm gonna get, I didn't see dollar signs, I saw my first gun. I plan to purchase as soon as my Uncle Sam sends me my cash. The little woman is good with it. I don't have any travel plans coming up so I can get some quality range time. The stars are in alignment.

But...

Due to travel (I was traveling 3 of the last 5 months) and just a crazy time at work, I've not had a chance to go and shoot anything since October/November. So I'm probably pretty rusty. I didn't have a ton of shooting experience before that, although I did pass the shooting test for CHL with flying colors (doesn't everyone?). So, any tips for a shooter who hasn't shot in a while other than going slow and paying close attention to safety? Would it be better to use a close target and work up to longer distances or start at a medium range? Any thoughts?

[thankGod]

I would start with a close target. In my opinion it's easier to analyze any problems you may have and correct them.

[MTICop]

Don't forget some dry-fire practice to work on those fundamentals prior to going to the range as well. Dry-fire is a great way to knock off rust or to learn to shoot period.

Start with the close target and go slowly. As I'm sure you know, speed will come with practice but the basics must be ingrained first. Good luck and good shooting. Congratulations on the new gun. Can't wait to see the pictures.

[DoubleJ]

So I'm probably pretty rusty.

I'd advise scrubbing with Hoppes #9, at least to start off with....

[LittleGun]

Ask a more experienced shooter to watch when you shoot, and then give suggestions for improvement. Doing that has greatly helped me.

[longhorn_92]

So I'm probably pretty rusty.

I'd advise scrubbing with Hoppes #9, at least to start off with....

[newTexan]

So I'm probably pretty rusty.

I'd advise scrubbing with Hoppes #9, at least to start off with....

That's what I love about this forum, lots of good advice and just the right amount of humor.

I suppose I should spray myself down with CLP and be thankful nobody suggested a boresnake.

[Tallinthesaddle]

1. Trigger Control and finger placement
2. Grip of the firearm. The tighter grip should be with your non trigger hand.
3. Posture - Slightly relaxed, knees slightly bent, head up.
4. Think front sight, front sight.

Remember, what works for me could be different than what works for you or others, but these are good ideas.
Also depends on the type and caliber of firearm.
Once you start, don't get rusty again!

[Cosmo 9]

What are you thinking of getting for your first? And of course you know it won't be your last!

[Keith B]

So I'm probably pretty rusty.

I'd advise scrubbing with Hoppes #9, at least to start off with....

That's what I love about this forum, lots of good advice and just the right amount of humor.

I suppose I should spray myself down with CLP and be thankful nobody suggested a boresnake.

That is funny. I almost posted something similar yesterday, but didn't get a chance. The scary part is how many of us clowns think alike on this forum!