Rifle-Firing Techniques

Using correct firing techniques will help you steady the rifle for the most accurate shooting. Bear in mind that these are only the basics. Further study will help you understand other factors that can affect your accuracy, such as wind, heat, and parallax.

• Shooting From a Rest: When shooting, the safest and most accurate shots are taken from a rest—a log, large rock, or other stable object. Don’t rest the barrel directly on a hard surface, or the rifle will fire higher than normal—put some padding, such as a hat or a jacket, under the rifle. When shooting at a range, use similar techniques of placing a bipod or some padding under the forearm of the rifle.
• Breathing: Your breathing can move the rifle just enough to throw off your shot.
• Your shot should be taken during your natural respiratory pause while breathing normally.
• When taking your shot, slowly press the trigger. Do not pull it or jerk it.
• Bear in mind that if you hold your breath too long, your heart beats faster, which increases your pulse and causes the rifle to move. If you notice this happening, take another breath and start over.
• At times, the excitement of spotting game will make it more difficult to control your breathing. Try to relax and follow the correct procedure.
• Trigger Press: Jerking the trigger or abruptly clenching the trigger hand can move the gun enough to cause a miss.
• To press the trigger without jarring the gun, simply apply slow, steady pressure until the gun fires.
• Practice makes breath control and proper trigger squeeze habitual.
• Natural Point of Aim: This is where the crosshairs of the scope end up when you are in a relaxed state in your shooting position.
• To set yourself up with a natural point of aim, first get your rifle pointed at your target.
• Align your body with the rifle rather than the rifle to your body. Allow the rifle to aim, and then adjust your position to align with the gun.
• Follow Through: After the bullet fires, it’s important to continue the squeeze or follow through. That prevents you from jerking the gun before the bullet has left the barrel.