To my thinking, accuracy is a relative term.
Time is indeed the 800-lb.
gorilla in the room in any discussion about making effective self-defense hits.
Real-life defensive shooting isnt nearly as accommodating.
But where do I need to place those hits?
And exactly how fast do I need to be?
So why shoot for the high chest?
Wouldnt a headshot be a better bet?
Frankly, headshots are an iffy proposition, to say the least.
The rounds either deflected off the skull, or it struck non-vital areas and didnt drive into the brain.
Heads are also very difficult targets to hit, especially when you factor in stress and movement.
Hits to the heart/lung area will typically result in rapid incapacitation.
Targets Matter
The targets we utilize in our training should to a certain extent, reflect reality.
Many popular silhouette targets feature an oversize high value or place it in the wrong location.
Bear in mind that this area really isnt that large.
Printable anatomy overlays can be found on the internet and affixed to any cardboard or paper target.
Other range props I have used include 8 paper plates, B-8 centers, and even 3x5 index cards.
Dont settle for mediocrity!
The formula for success remains reasonably quick hits into the area they will do the most good.
However, doing it at speed is another matter altogether.
Since we have a bit of control over it, lets consider skill first.
On the command, the shooter fires a three-shot burst with no time limit.
Are all the hits in the high-value area?
Now, take a step back and repeat.
Can we fire three shots in three seconds for all hits?
How about two seconds?
As distance increases, shooters will typically slow it down just a shade to ensure good hits.
This drill isnt especially difficult to run, nor does it require a great deal of ammo.
However, it will give you some insight into your skill level.
Extreme stress can also play havoc with your ability to precisely place hits on a threat.
So that is something to consider.
Set the bar high in your training and dont settle for just good enough.
Your ability to place decisive hits on an aggressor at typical self-defense distances will determine who survives the fight.
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Hellcat3" OSPTM
HEXWasp
