Going shooting is an exciting treat for many. For the average Joe, it could be a healthy escape from day to day life, relieve stress, and can actually promote better balance and posture. For first time rifle shooters, it can be a bit intimidating. Going to a gun range is a lot safer and many offer programs to help beginner shooters get more comfortable with their weapon and help gain the confidence in pursuing shooting as a hobby or a competitive sport.

Shooting Range Industries would like to offer shooting tips for the first time rifle shooter.

– Natural point of aim. For the best precision, it is best not “over-aim“. It is proven that when lining up your aim on the target, taking the natural aim is more precise than when the individual is making too many adjustments. Don’t wrestle with the rifle when aiming. Naturally rise the rifle to the target and think of the rifle and the shooter as one unit as opposed to putting your mind completely in your weapon.
– Firing positions – There are several positions generally used when firing a rifle. Standing, kneeling, seated, prone or on the bench. When holding your rifle in a natural shooting position, align your eye to the target. Close your eyes and relax. You want to be calm; like when you’re lying down for sleep. Take two deep breaths and open your eyes. Instead of man handling your weapon alone, think yourself as one unit and move in harmony to aim at your target.
– Follow through. New shooters may find shooting uncomfortable and startlingly loud. Reaction time can turn a great shot into an okay shot. Many experts try to convey the follow through, but initially, beginners don’t understand the concept. When first learning to shoot, follow through may mean your shot takes a little more time. Wait for perfect breathing patterns, squeezing the trigger as opposed to pulling it and continue to keep aim with the target until the shot is finished.
– Prone position. Getting low to the ground in the prone position is the most accurate and easiest position to learn in. Slowly rising up to the standing position will help improve your shooting techniques. Beginning to hone in your prone position aiming is the most accurate.
– Change your firing positions. If you find that different positions are giving you harder time on the range, it’s okay to revert back to a position that is simpler for you and with better aiming results. After observing your techniques, try the positions you are struggling with and adjust.
– Shooting Targets. Beginners don’t need to limit the kind of targets they shoot at. If the shooting range you are practicing at allows other target choices, avoid using the paper targets down range. It is difficult to see how well your aim was initially. Shoot at metal targets that exaggerate your results, and give you better satisfaction of hearing the impact of the bullet reach your target. Better yet, if you can; visit a custom shooting range like Shooting Range Industries builds and fabricates with bullet traps and target retrieval systems. Our shooting ranges have many real life simulation options as well as fun moving target games with sound that very clearly show you how close you came to hitting the target and rewards you when you do.
– Aim with both eyes. So many shooters try to aim closing with one eye. It is not a good habit to form. Shooting with only one eye open hinders your vision. With both eyes open, it enhances relaxation, promotes better view for more focus.
– Relax and be calm. Shooting is more accurate when relaxed and calm. If you are feeling stressed, pop a few rounds until your calm and breathing. Once calmed and relaxed, that’s when to focus on better accuracy.