Coming back to practice/training after absence...

[newTexan]

Hi guys,

I had to take a bit of a lengthy absence from any kind of shooting practice for a while, but things have improved and I'm looking to get back to the range. Was wondering if there was any good advice for this kind of situation. I'm sure my skills have atrophied, and I'm hoping to get them back up to par. Any tips? Does dryfire really help?

[Teamless]

Where are you located?
Maybe there are others in your area, that may help you, in person, at a local range?

[WildBill]

Does dryfire really help?

Welcome to the forum newTexan. Dry firing isn't nearly as good as the real thing, but it does help.

[74novaman]

Where are you located?
Maybe there are others in your area, that may help you, in person, at a local range?

And yes, Dry firing, practicing drawing from a holster, etc all do help.

Most firearms manuals recommend you use snap caps if you're going to practice dry fire.

[newTexan]

I'm on the north side of Austin.

[jchamb]

Having dropped out a couple of times after I retired from the military (no chance to get to a range), after an 8-10 year absence I just cleaned my 1911, took a couple of boxes of ammo and fired away. It all comes back very quickly (then again I had carried/fired the thing for 25 years).
I'd recommend you get some cheap but reliable ammo, a bunch of targets and fire away. Even it you've lost your touch, practice will bring it right back.

[EL29jm]

took a couple of boxes of ammo and fired away. It all comes back very quickly.

Have to agree with jchamb

I too stopped target shooting years ago. I recently picked up punching holes in paper and I am having a lot of fun at the local range. A recommendation, talk with the personnel at a shooting range. They may have a refresher class to re-emphasize safety, the four rules etc. You probably already know how load your firearm, line up the sites and pull the trigger.

-John

[gigag04]

Training class.

Next best thing is get some training DVDs from a reputable entity: Paul Howell, Magpul, etc, and train yourself with unloaded gun. Then take the concepts to the range. Real, in person, training cannot be beat IMO. You will gain more skills for the money of the class, then shooting thousands of rounds on your own.