[Insta-Gator]

Let's be clear, I am a crappy shooter. But then, what is a crappy shooter? What is a good shooter? I'm 60+ years old, been around guns since high school days. Long guns aren't a problem. Pistols, that's a different story. I think I need coaching by a professional.

So, everyone is welcome to give their $0.02 on the subject, but I'm particularly interested in the comments of long-time, proficient shooters.

1. Short comment on your shooting history

2. What gun your shoot (mostly)

3. What style of shooting; defensive slow shooting practice, bullseye, IDPA, ???

4. Qualify your expectation of good shooting; 4" circle at 7 yards, 10 yard, 15 yards, 25 yards?

5. Is it reasonable for weekend shooters to expect 'mickey ears' patterns when they shoot or is a 4" or 6" group acceptable. (may be person choice here)

At my current level, if I can keep most of my shots in a 6" circle at 10 yards I think I've had a pretty good day. I may be lying to myself, or I may be ok. Don't know.

What makes you happy at the range?

 

[Islander]

I too am 60+. I've been around firearms most of my life. Since you are a weekend shooter punching holes in paper, practice the fundamentals every time you go to the range. Practice is the only way you'll get better.
I don't concern myself much with groups. I shoot a lot of steel plates. I also participate in local "combat" matches which are not affiliated with and of the national stuff(IDPA,USPSA,etc). There are also a couple of rimfire leagues, and bowling pin matches.

As to the guns I shoot. Rimfire to shotguns. I probably shoot one of my .22's more then anything else

 

[v35b]

Like both of you I am past 60 and as long as I can keep my shots where they would hit someone at 30 feet or so I am happy. that said I can still keep most shots under 4" at 25 feet.

 

[Dude22]

I am 63 and have been around rifles, shot guns, .22 (my favorite), 30-30s, .308 as long as I can remember. Always messed around the revolvers but never took it seriously until 10 years ago. I think you have to have realist expectations on what you want to accomplish. For example, a 3" barrel defense gun should be able to keep your shots within 6" at 21'. That's proficient for self defense. IMO.

A 4" barrel gun should be able to do a 4" pattern at 21'. A 5" barrel is 4" at 50'.

If you want to shoot in competition all bets are off. You will need lots of practice and some serious instruction to be proficient. Shooting a pistol at25 yards is fun just to see how good you are but really has no practical application unless you shoot in competition. Most of us around are concerned about self defense, I think.

I don't know if any of my rambling makes sense to you, or anyone else. Don't to hard on yourself. Get a lesson from a qualified instructor and tell him what your expectations are. Even golf pros have swing coaches why shouldn't we get help from time to time on our shooting technique?

My .02.

 

[NascarGuy]

In my early 40s here and I try to shoot at least a 100 rds a week at the local indoor range. I shoot both a Glock 19 and Kimber Pro II, 50 rds off of each. My weekly goal is improvement and then consistency. I am realistically shoot a 4" group at 7yds with the occassional flyer hopping outside the circle. As long as I am seeing improvement from week to week I am happy. My EDC is my Kimber and one thing that I often think about is I am shooting target ammo, usually 230gr FMJ and my defensive carry ammo is Critical Duty +p at 220gr. How much difference will a hotter load and a little lighter projectile make?

I too have been shooting firearms for quite some time; started around 6 y.o. or so as a hunter's buddy in South Eastern CT.

 

[Chuck43]

I'm in my 70's and I guess I started shooting about 65 years ago. At one time or another I've tried it all and hunted everything but sheep, never could get lucky enough to draw a tag. I quit competitive shooting when they started closing all the clubs and ranges around me. Today I shoot mostly handguns and get out about once a week, I usually fire about 200 rounds before I get tired and go home. I will fire 100 - 150 aimed rounds at various ranges out to 25 yards in order to maintain an edge in order to beat my son and daughter in law when we're all shooting together. The rest will be fired point shooting out to 10 yards maximum. That is my defensive practice for when the SHTF in the middle of the night and my bifocals have been knocked to the floor getting my .45 out of the night stand. If I can't keep all rounds fired point shooting in a 8" circle I'm having a bad day. I always take one of my Kimbers to the range and will rotate out a .41 mag, .357mag or .357 Herrett with it. I'd love to shoot the .22 Kimber conversion kit I got for my birthday last year but I haven't seen a box of .22's on the shelf in any of our gun stores in almost 2 years.

 

[Gmountain]

I didn't really get into shooting until after I got married. Sure, I shot some .22's in Boy Scout camp, and had BB and pellet guns, but no firearms until later.

I like different kinds of guns. A lot of times, what I shoot is really dependent on how easy it is to clean, lol. I shoot handguns, rifles, shotguns. I like them all. only target shooting, or clays. I'm not a hunter.

My carry gun is a Walther P99AS. If I can get all my shots in a 4" circle at 10 yards I'm really happy with it.

I really like to get out and shoot for the peace and quiet (sounds funny, huh?) and for the relaxation. It's good totake my mind off ofstuff and concentrate on one thing. I like to shoot by myself.

 

[MPO Southy]

I first became a LEO at 23 yoa and my weapon was a model 19 S&W .357.I shortly thereafter was hired by a larger dept.and was issued a S&W model 15 .38 revolver.In 1990 we transitioned to Sig P-226 in 9mm.What a great gun that was.I carried that until retirement in 2001 and kept that gun.Because of my LEO history I train for defensive shooting.Usually between 1-15 yards.In all likelihood if you ever have to use deadly force it will be up close and personal.All my targets are the size of an adults torso.I am happy if I can repeatedly strike these targets fairly quickly.I've been training like this for 35 years now,so Iguess I won't change.I'm a little younger than most of you as I am just pushing 58.

 

[bigdog10]

I use 100yd. 22 rifle targets they measure 11"x14" at 10 yards. as long as all rounds are on that target I'm a happy camper.

 

[Islander]

I first became a LEO at 23 yoa and my weapon was a model 19 S&W .357.I shortly thereafter was hired by a larger dept.and was issued a S&W model 15 .38 revolver.In 1990 we transitioned to Sig P-226 in 9mm.What a great gun that was.I carried that until retirement in 2001 and kept that gun.Because of my LEO history I train for defensive shooting.Usually between 1-15 yards.In all likelihood if you ever have to use deadly force it will be up close and personal.All my targets are the size of an adults torso.I am happy if I can repeatedly strike these targets fairly quickly.I've been training like this for 35 years now,so Iguess I won't change.I'm a little younger than most of you as I am just pushing 58.

I like your approach to training!

 

[pbsdaddy]

I'm 65. My dad started taking me hunting when I was old enough to show an interest. I got into handguns after I went in The Air Force and worked Law Enforcement. I shot competitively both with The Air Force and outside. I became an NRA certified instructor in 1986 and continued shooting in competitions after I retired and became a civilian police officer.
My weapons experience ranges from .22 handguns and rifles to M-1 carbines, M-16 rifles, M-60 machine guns, Grenade Launchers and several shotguns.
I think I have said this before, but when I practice or am trying to teach someone, I start close to the target. It seems to be easier for most people to control their bullet placement if they are close up. After they gain confidence, I move back at various increments until I reach about 30 yards. For DEFENSIVE handgun, at 30 yards one is way outside their need to fire range. But, being able to hit what you point at, at that range, is a great confidence builder.

 

[Insta-Gator]

I'm 65. My dad started taking me hunting when I was old enough to show an interest. I got into handguns after I went in The Air Force and worked Law Enforcement. I shot competitively both with The Air Force and outside. I became an NRA certified instructor in 1986 and continued shooting in competitions after I retired and became a civilian police officer.
My weapons experience ranges from .22 handguns and rifles to M-1 carbines, M-16 rifles, M-60 machine guns, Grenade Launchers and several shotguns.
I think I have said this before, but when I practice or am trying to teach someone, I start close to the target. It seems to be easier for most people to control their bullet placement if they are close up. After they gain confidence, I move back at various increments until I reach about 30 yards. For DEFENSIVE handgun, at 30 yards one is way outside their need to fire range. But, being able to hit what you point at, at that range, is a great confidence builder.

So, to clarify, at 30 yards, so long as you hit the full size silhouette it's good?

 

[2sharp2]

Let's be clear, I am a crappy shooter. But then, what is a crappy shooter? What is a good shooter? I'm 60+ years old, been around guns since high school days. Long guns aren't a problem. Pistols, that's a different story. I think I need coaching by a professional.

So, everyone is welcome to give their $0.02 on the subject, but I'm particularly interested in the comments of long-time, proficient shooters.

1. Short comment on your shooting history

2. What gun your shoot (mostly)

3. What style of shooting; defensive slow shooting practice, bullseye, IDPA, ???

4. Qualify your expectation of good shooting; 4" circle at 7 yards, 10 yard, 15 yards, 25 yards?

5. Is it reasonable for weekend shooters to expect 'mickey ears' patterns when they shoot or is a 4" or 6" group acceptable. (may be person choice here)

At my current level, if I can keep most of my shots in a 6" circle at 10 yards I think I've had a pretty good day. I may be lying to myself, or I may be ok. Don't know.

What makes you happy at the range?

I am 58, grandpa let me shoot his bolt action .22lr over a sand bag I guess at about five years old. Squirrel,rabbit and deer hunted with Dad and several Uncles. Was on high school and college ROTC rifle teams. Late 70's part of 80's spent 3-gun or just target stuff. Loved anything that would go BANG but liked pistols best. Have not shot much since can no longer just go into my back yard. Divorce,child support,same child in college money was tight. Starting to shoot some again now. Still breaking in my new Ultra CDP II, current EDC (when I carry which is becoming more and more frequent) is a old Detonics .45. I may have info to help all of us, I know it has helped me.
I may be late everyone may already know about this guy and the videos.
It came out of the blue, I did not order it and have no investment in it whatso ever. The company has 341 videos on YouTube. They want me to buy the DVD Series which I may do later. There are videos on all kinds of topics including Home/Personal Defense. Go to YouTube and look for "Personal Defense Network." They also have a website just add .com. The title of the one I have is "Shooting In Realistic Environments" It is in the Personal Firearm Defense DVD SERIES. It was very interesting watching, old dog like me even learned a few tips. Oh guys name is Rob Pincus. After seeing the video mentioned above, I am at the very least "out of PRACTICE". I thought the guys on here might enjoy the videos and maybe pick up a tip or to. Let us know what you think.

 

[PorscheVille]

Great Thread

Let's be clear, I am a crappy shooter. But then, what is a crappy shooter? What is a good shooter? I'm 60+ years old, been around guns since high school days. Long guns aren't a problem. Pistols, that's a different story. I think I need coaching by a professional.

So, everyone is welcome to give their $0.02 on the subject, but I'm particularly interested in the comments of long-time, proficient shooters.

1. Short comment on your shooting history

2. What gun your shoot (mostly)

3. What style of shooting; defensive slow shooting practice, bullseye, IDPA, ???

4. Qualify your expectation of good shooting; 4" circle at 7 yards, 10 yard, 15 yards, 25 yards?

5. Is it reasonable for weekend shooters to expect 'mickey ears' patterns when they shoot or is a 4" or 6" group acceptable. (may be person choice here)

At my current level, if I can keep most of my shots in a 6" circle at 10 yards I think I've had a pretty good day. I may be lying to myself, or I may be ok. Don't know.

What makes you happy at the range?

1. I'm 58. My entire shooting history is 1000 rounds since Christmas. Period. So yeah, I'm a beginner. Full blown. But I'm serious about learning and improving. And I'm glad for this thread because I really don't know what good is.

2. Kimber Pro Carry II.

3. Style? I'm just trying to get more accurate and more consistent. I'm shooting fairly slow but steady. About 1 to 1-1/2 seconds per round. I'm just beginning to get a little comfortable and trying to figure out what works. I'll get faster as I learn. I plan on getting instruction and CC classes, etc.

4. I don't know what good is but it doesn't matter too much to me as long as I know I'm improving and learning. My range has full-size torso targets. My goal is to eliminate all shots outside the ring, which is about 5-6 inches. And to keep getting the majority well centered. I'm getting about 80% in an area the size of my fist. The range has no marks, but the first light is probably 7 yards. I shoot about four feet behind that so the target is well lit. I figure it's 25 feet.

5. I don't even know what Mickey Mouse ears are!

What makes me happy at the range? I'm always happy at the range. The rest of life's BS melts away. No clients. No partners. No phones. I have no expectations to meet...I just love it.

Last Saturday's target:

 

[MPO Southy]

1. I'm 58. My entire shooting history is 1000 rounds since Christmas. Period. So yeah, I'm a beginner. Full blown. But I'm serious about learning and improving. And I'm glad for this thread because I really don't know what good is.

2. Kimber Pro Carry II.

3. Style? I'm just trying to get more accurate and more consistent. I'm shooting fairly slow but steady. About 1 to 1-1/2 seconds per round. I'm just beginning to get a little comfortable and trying to figure out what works. I'll get faster as I learn. I plan on getting instruction and CC classes, etc.

4. I don't know what good is but it doesn't matter too much to me as long as I know I'm improving and learning. My range has full-size torso targets. My goal is to eliminate all shots outside the ring, which is about 5-6 inches. And to keep getting the majority well centered. I'm getting about 80% in an area the size of my fist. The range has no marks, but the first light is probably 7 yards. I shoot about four feet behind that so the target is well lit. I figure it's 25 feet.

5. I don't even know what Mickey Mouse ears are!

What makes me happy at the range? I'm always happy at the range. The rest of life's BS melts away. No clients. No partners. No phones. I have no expectations to meet...I just love it.

Last Saturday's target:

Touche!Great attitude,and great target.Stay with it.

 

[PorscheVille]

More on "happy at the range".....the smell of gun powder. Love it. Shiny brass shells and the sound they make hitting concrete. Love it. The feel of a Kimber 1911. Love it. Kick of a .45....yep. LOVE IT! Shooting holes in stuff. You guessed it. Love it!

 

[bigdog10]

More on "happy at the range".....the smell of gun powder. Love it. Shiny brass shells and the sound they make hitting concrete. Love it. The feel of a Kimber 1911. Love it. Kick of a .45....yep. LOVE IT! Shooting holes in stuff. You guessed it. Love it!

You sure your not Bruce Springsteen? cause that would make a great song.

 

[Insta-Gator]

Great post, PorcheVille. I think you speak for many of us. For someone who's only shot 1,000 rounds, I'd say you are doing darn good.

You captured the essence of my original post, "I don't know what good is." I should stop watching all these shooting shows on TV. They make me feel chump shooter.

I'll bet I'm not the only one here who goes to the gun safe, opens it up, takes out the Kimber and just holds it (grinning.) Then a few dry fires. (more grinning) Then back in the safe until the next time or range trip.


Mickey Ears (as in Mickey Mouse)
0 0
.0

Only touching.

 

[pbsdaddy]

So, to clarify, at 30 yards, so long as you hit the full size silhouette it's good?

Not really, Gator. What I'm saying is, put in some practice at that, or even longer distances. In controlled, aimed firing, groups within the 8 ring should be very common for the average shooter.
In point shooting, yes. Keeping all the rounds on target would be considered good. But, my bigger point is, 30 or more yards in not defensive shooting, so there is no need to practice as if it were. One is, in my opinion, outside the ring of imminent danger at that range. However, knowing I can still hit what I'm aiming at is a valued lesson and resource.

 

[Insta-Gator]

Thanks for the clarification.