3 Next-Level Drills to Try at the Shooting Range
- Daniel Defense
- Jan 2
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 13
You’re a competent marksman. You can work your M4 carbine pretty well and are capable of hitting some impressive shots at the range. But there’s always room for improvement, and your go-to drills might not be doing enough anymore. Now, it’s time to level up and do more advanced drills. Whether it’s transitioning from rifle to pistol or practicing your weak side, the right drills can take your shooting to the next level.
Rifle-to-Pistol Transition
Transitioning from your rifle to your pistol safely and efficiently is the name of the game for this drill. This drill might not be all that useful outside of specific professions or competitive shooters, but it’s still worth practicing as it can help train your coordination. Start with your striker fired 1911 loaded and in your holster and your M4 loaded with just two rounds and in a low-ready position.
On the buzzer, flip off the safety and fire the two rounds. This should lock the bolt back. Put the rifle down or let it swing down on a sling, and present your pistol from your holster and fire two rounds. While accuracy matters, the main point of this drill is to practice moving from your rifle to your pistol smoothly.
Using Your Sling
Many competitions require rifles to be attached to a sling. You can use a sling to pull your rifle into your shoulder better and stabilize your shooting position, helping you be more accurate. If you have a competition in your sights, you better practice using your sling. For this drill, you will need a quick-adjust sling.
Start with your rifle slung crossbody. On the buzzer, bring your rifle up and pull the quick-adjust as far as possible. This should put tension on the sling and provide stability for your shot.
If you want to switch things up, use your weak hand to wrap the sling around your arm for even more tension. You can also practice starting with the rifle on your back with the muzzle to the sky. Swing it around, load a magazine, rack the bolt, and fire two shots at your target.
Strong Side, Weak Side
You might be great at shooting with your strong side, but what about your weak side? A competition scenario could have you contorting into weird positions and having to use your weak side, so it’s a good idea to practice. This drill, a variation on the drill created by Kyle Lamb, is a fast-paced drill that tests both sides and can also test your transition to a pistol.
Start with three targets downrange at around 20 yards out. Your M4A1 should have 30 rounds, and at least six in your handgun.
On the buzzer, fire two shots at each target from your strong side. Switch to your support side and fire two shots at each target. Flick the safety and run forward 5 yards. Fire two shots at each target from your support side, and repeat with your strong side. Run forward 5 more yards and repeat. Or, fire the shots from the strong side, transition to your handgun, and fire two shots at each target.
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Original Source: https://bit.ly/42gJ67h
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