Jim,
I’d like to add three observations to Shooter’s otherwise outstanding tutorial on weapons drawing and presentation – “Shooter” on The Draw Technique, or “Shooter’s Five Steps to Keeping Ten Fingers”. First, it is absolutely critical to be aware of your state’s protocols for use of lethal force in armed encounters. The most common elements that must be met to protect yourself legally is opportunity, ability and jeopardy. Go to www.packing.org and review your own state’s statutes. Second, I highly recommend that prior to reholstering and reversing the steps of the draw stroke which Shooter outlined, the weapon is brought from extension to the midriff pointing perpendicular from your body in the same two handed position and you conduct a 360 degree scan without moving your body to assess any additional threats and then you reholster WITHOUT looking at your holster (this will take some practice). This 360 scan must become a habit for the rest of your life whenever your reholster. The intensity of focus and tunnel vision common in these “Condition Black” encounters can insulate the shooter from being alerted to any additional threats that may be around or emerged during the shooting. You will never exceed your highest level of training. Third, register or indexing of the trigger finger is critical for safety and efficiency. There is never a reason to do otherwise until you are ready to fire. This probably accounts for most negligent discharges (“NDs”) in police departments as a result of sympathetic flinch on the trigger during stressful situations or reholstering with the finger on the trigger. In conclusion, seek professional training in tactical shooting from a local school or a nationally recognized marquee like Thunder Ranch or Gunsite. Training dollars should become a household budget item. Cordially, B.B. in North Idaho
Letter Re: “Shooter” on The Draw Technique, or “Shooter’s Five Steps to Keeping Ten Fingers”
