Does dry fire practice really help?

[Buck13]

It's a cliche that "the first step in solving a problem is recognizing that you have a problem." Like a lot of cliches, it contains a heaping helping of truth.

On a good day, I can mostly control my flinch. Not every day is a good day.

 

[mavracer]

I find it amusing when those who can't think they know more than those who can.

OP you've gotten some excellent information from some very accomplished shooters what you do with it is up to you.

 

[strambo]

I find it amusing when those who can't think they know more than those who can.

Yes, classic Dunning Kruger effect at work. It isn't as if this is uncharted territory or anything. Thousands of high level competition shooters, armed professionals, and trainers have proven dry fire is an extremely effective form of practice, so much so even those with access to "free" ammo still do way more dry fire than live. All are human, all had to overcome the natural tendency of wanting to blink, flinch and/or anticipate the shot as the loud mini-explosion is happening in front of their face.

If live fire was the best way then the top shooters wouldn't waste their time with dry fire.

 

[200Apples]

.
Sanderson on dry fire (and holding drills): "It's not fun, it's not sexy, but it's how you get better".

Thanks for the first video link, Klausman.

 

[MrBorland]

I started with a D.A. revolver. I put a coin on the barrel & practiced until I could pull the trigger D.A. quickly without the coin falling off. Then I practiced it on a target on the wall with the coin.

In it's standard form, the ol' coin-on-the-barrel drill is a decent start. Sounds like it's time to take it to the next level, though:

Advanced Coin-on-the-Barrel drill, Part 1

Advanced Coin-on-the-Barrel drill, Part 2