Practice Before the CHL Shooting Test

[Tallinthesaddle]

I got back into firearms and shooting about four months ago after retiring from my job and and took the CHL test on May 3rd. I had practiced with three different pistols 4 or 5 times at the range early in the morning when I was the only one there. I thought I was quite proficient. The day came for the class and we divided up into three groups, mine being the last. Our group was called up, everyone was ready on the firing line, and the first set of instructions read out, and the first shots began. My first shot went far to the left, even at 3 yards. I composed myself and got back on track and did fine, passing the test. The mistake I had made was not shooting with other people around. I was just not ready for all the other gun noise around me. Quite different from the shooting practice I became used to. I now go shooting in the late mornings or afternoons with other people there.
My advice to those who are going to take the test, practice with others firing around you!!!!
It really makes a difference.

[Plato]

I'll second your observations and go one further and say some form of intense training along with competition shooting is in order. Face it, if you go to the trouble of getting that CHL and actually carrying the darn pistol -you need to practice for the dire circumstance of defending your life. That little extra trouble you felt from the change in shooting conditions (solo at the range to group shooting) -is gonna be magnified tenfold in a real life&death situation. And for us average Joe's who never faced such things (like military or police) -we need all the help/training we can get.

Pay some cash for a formal trainup from the holster, then go join IDPA and look up a local club. Shooting IDPA matches with your carry gun is much better than just plinking at the range, IMO

[ArmedTeacher]

I'll second your observations and go one further and say some form of intense training along with competition shooting is in order. Face it, if you go to the trouble of getting that CHL and actually carrying the darn pistol -you need to practice for the dire circumstance of defending your life. That little extra trouble you felt from the change in shooting conditions (solo at the range to group shooting) -is gonna be magnified tenfold in a real life&death situation. And for us average Joe's who never faced such things (like military or police) -we need all the help/training we can get.

Pay some cash for a formal trainup from the holster, then go join IDPA and look up a local club. Shooting IDPA matches with your carry gun is much better than just plinking at the range, IMO

I am getting bored with poking holes in paper. I've been looking around at IDPA and am thinking about trying it out. I think the practical experience of it would be extremely beneficial if I ever have to be in a situation where drawing becomes necessary. Plus, it looks like fun!

[dac1842]

You should in reality practice at least once per month with all pistols you carry. I do my best to do that. I know it can be expensive but the alternative is not thinkable. I met a guy the other day who had bought a new pistol and was carrying it. I asked him how it handled and he replied he had not shot it yet! I dont know how someone can carry a weapon they havent even shot yet. Talk about blind faith.

[longhorn_92]

I'll second your observations and go one further and say some form of intense training along with competition shooting is in order. Face it, if you go to the trouble of getting that CHL and actually carrying the darn pistol -you need to practice for the dire circumstance of defending your life. That little extra trouble you felt from the change in shooting conditions (solo at the range to group shooting) -is gonna be magnified tenfold in a real life&death situation. And for us average Joe's who never faced such things (like military or police) -we need all the help/training we can get.

Pay some cash for a formal trainup from the holster, then go join IDPA and look up a local club. Shooting IDPA matches with your carry gun is much better than just plinking at the range, IMO

It is extremely important to know how to shoot proficiently. It is even important to know how to shoot with others around.

However, shooting at paper targets is one thing - shooting while stressed is another. I would highly recommend taking an advanced class - such as a personal protection class or a defensive class. You learn things such as :

* Malfunction clearance drills
* Shooting from different positions
* Shooting on the move
* Cover and concealment
* Target selection and identification

I took a class like this a few weeks ago - and it opened my eyes. I will begin practicing with more drills like the above.

In the real world situations - you need to move quickly and accurately. Paper targets are one thing - but, like I said when you are moving and your pumped up - it is truly a different experience.