Mastering a pistol requires time and practice. There are a number of ways to improve accuracy. By sticking with pro tips and creating a practice routine at the gun range, you’ll quickly resolve bad habits and notice an immediate difference in how you’re shooting. Use the tips below for the best results.

Ways to Improve Pistol Shooting Accuracy

1. Dry Fire

To improve accuracy, you need to first see what you’re doing wrong. Remove the clip and ammunition from your gun, making sure to check the chamber twice to ensure all bullets are removed. Hold the pistol in front of you in a safe area and squeeze the trigger slowly. Pay attention to how the gun moves as you squeeze. If you’re inaccurate, it’s likely moving up, down, left, or right at the last minute. This can be related to your grip, wrists, stance, and other mechanics. Identify the most common movement so you can hone in on the cause.

2. Squeeze the Trigger

How you squeeze the trigger is perhaps the most important part of shooting. Many people “pull” instead of squeeze. When you do this, you’re often jerking the gun at the last second depending on which hand it’s in. If you notice you’re always shooting slightly off center, try to squeeze the trigger more slowly. Do it as slowly as needed until your accuracy improves and stay mindful of how you’re squeezing. Gradually, it will become second nature.

3. Focus On the Front Sight

The front sight at the end of the barrel is crucial to hitting your mark. With one or both eyes open, center it on your target. Make sure it’s aligned perfectly within the back sight. Maintain your posture, breathe, and check that you aren’t pulling the gun based on what you’ve learned from dry firing. It’s helpful to have a firearms professional check that your sights are aligned and spaced apart correctly.

If you’re looking to purchase a new firearm and need a place to shoot, Shooter’s Firearms & Indoor Range is proud to serve gun enthusiasts throughout Columbia, IL. They welcome customers of every skill level and take every step to teach gun safety. Their full-service shooting range regularly hosts pistol leagues and other competitions, and their skilled staff also provide concealed carry courses. Call (618) 281-6393 to speak with a sales associate and visit their website to learn more about their shooting range. You can connect on Facebook for news, deals, and updates.