NCJ Number
219108
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 76 Issue: 6 Dated: June 2007 Pages: 1-7
Date Published
June 2007
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article discusses shooting fundamentals, technology, and approaches for effective firearms training.
Abstract
The seven fundamentals of law enforcement firearms training involve proper trigger control, sight alignment, sight picture (the relationship of the acquired sight alignment and the intended target), grip, stance, breath control, and follow-through (continuation of the previous six principles in follow-up shots). Trigger control is the most critical fundamental for delivering an accurate shot with a handgun, since proper trigger control enhances the ability to shoot fast and accurately. A separate section of this article discusses correct trigger control. Two other sections address the diagnosis and curing of shooting errors. A section on training approaches focuses on the role of technology. The author advises that the effective use of technological teaching aids by knowledgeable instructors can significantly enhance the learning curve by saving time and improving the trainee's level of understanding. In order to illustrate how modern technological advances can help in firearms training, the author briefly describes the FBI's remedial firearms training program called Fast Track. Fast Track uses sophisticated firearms training technology to provide critical information to trainees who have failed to qualify with their service weapons within the prescribed length of time. Of the numerous technological advances developed for Fast Track, the most effective is the trigger graph diagnostic equipment. The computer-based trigger graph equipment captures the application of trigger pressure and time in an easy-to-read format that quickly conveys information about a trainee's trigger-pressure characteristics. 4 notes