Help a newbie out?

[.40isthenew.45]

Okay, so now that I am getting into this competition shooting stuff I am learning a lot.

Wednesday I learned that there is a huge difference in getting off a quick second shot while wingshooting and getting off six quick shots in a row with a pump gun. I already kind of "knew" that I wanted a Benelli M1 Super 90, but now I know why.

Last night I learned that there is a better way to grip a pistol for fast follow up shots. Now that I know to not use the little hook on the front of the trigger guard for my support hand index finger, and that BOTH my thumbs should be pointed at the target to get the most contact with the grip and better control recoil, I can work on faster follow up shots.

So the question is, "What will I learn at my first tactical rifle match or 3-gun rifle stage that I could be working on in advance so that I look a little less like a newb and turn in a better performance on my initial outing?"

Thanks in advance,
--Chris

 

[Justin]

Practice getting into and out of position.

Practice quickly getting into and out of prone.

For other positions, use a couch or set up a ladder, and practice going from a standing position to getting your gun onto the object and stabilizing it as quickly as possible.

 

[Sunray]

"...six quick shots in a row with a pump gun..." Dry fire practice. Applies to handgun and rifle shooting too. Lets you practice sight picture, trigger control and breathing. If you're reloading, make up some DP cartridges(loaded cartridge with no powder or primer) and practice loading/unloading, IA drills(clearly jams or misfires. Misfires aren't dealt with the same way as a jam though) and mag changes.
"...What will I learn at my first..." Most likely that you didn't bring enough ammo. And that running around and shooting is hard on you. Take some water with you too.
"...less like a newb and..." Don't worry about it. Just go and have fun.

 

[Robert]

Justin is right, do as much work going from a near static position to moving as you can.
Sunray is right too, dry fire, dry fire, dry fire. Practicing loading, unloading and clearing jams until you can do it in your sleep.

Remember, slow is smooth. Smooth is fast.

The biggest thing you can do is have fun. Ask lots of questions, and listen. Figure out who the good shooters are and make it a point to get to know them. Most of these guys are more than happy to share their knowledge. Take an "I know nothing and want to learn all I can" approach and you will be fine.