BSIS Firearms Training Manual - October 2001 Edition

 Firearm Training Manual  82

Despite correct stance, grip, and sight picture, the shot will be inaccurate if the trigger is snapped instead of squeezed. The term "trigger squeeze" means the smooth and steady pressing of the trigger. If the trigger is snapped, the barrel will jump in the hand. This will cause the shot to miss. 

The firearm should be gripped so that the first joint from the tip of the index finger lies on top of the trigger. This produces a straight pull. 

Placing too much of the finger on the trigger, will cause the firearm to shift to the outside of the target. If too little finger is put on the trigger, the firearm is pushed to the inside by the squeeze. (Demonstration) 

a. Single action shooting 
Single action shooting is using the trigger to fire an already cocked weapon. Single action shooting with a revolver is not acceptable. 
b. Double action shooting 
Double action shooting is using the trigger to cock and fire the weapon. 
c. Count your shots 
Students should always be aware of the amount of ammunition they have. 
d. Anticipation 
The most common mistake made by the novice shooter is anticipating the shot. Anticipation will generally result in one of three patterns. 
1) If the shooting pattern begins to trail upward, the shooter is withdrawing from the recoil. 
2) If the shooting pattern begins to trail downward, the shooter is anticipating the firearm's recoil and is pushing the muzzle downward. 
3) If the shooting pattern is either to the left or right, the shooter does not have proper body position, does not have proper sight alignment, or proper trigger finger placement. 
Anticipation can be diagnosed by placing two or three live rounds randomly in the cylinder and filling the remaining chambers with empty casings. This is called "skiploading." Spin the cylinder and close the cylinder without looking