Competitive shooting is recognized as a great way to test pistol shooting skills. Yes, that’s true. It’s also considered an effective tool to build skill. Well, that depends. Here’s why.

You don’t need to know all the rules to start competing. But understanding the rules does give you a competitive advantage.

While convenient and comfortable, training exclusively indoors will limit skill development.

While very straightforward in principle, shooting a pistol is harder than it looks and often feels overwhelming.

False confidence arises when the brain confuses the process of passively listening and receiving information with the ability to actively call on and apply information.

I have a Glock 43x in my carry rotation. However, it does take more work to maintain my grip and keep the pressure consistent because the gun is smaller and lighter.

Statistics are clear. Most self-defense encounters are over in 2-5 seconds, averaging about 3 shots fired. Are you able to shoot at speed with full accountability?

Stop guessing about your shooting skills. Learn how evidence-based pistol training, performance benchmarks, and the Five-Yard Roundup drill reveal real-world readiness.

Understanding target transitions is not inherently difficult. However, the execution becomes much more challenging as you add complexity.

There are many, many holster options. But regardless of which holster you choose, you must be able to get your gun out and on target, safely, efficiently, and as fast as possible.

I recently competed in my first rifle match. Outside my comfort zone? Yes. Potential for learning and growth? Off the charts.

There’s no place to hide when you’re on a stage in front of other shooters. Your skills are what they are in that moment.

In January, I’m going to focus my dry fire and live fire training on three key skills: a fast draw, quick target acquisition and smooth, efficient reloads.

Don’t be dissuaded from mounting a red dot pistol optic on your first handgun. Given the advantages of a red dot, it’s all upside.

To be competitive, “movement” is absolutely key. And, in a broader sense, “reaction time.” Which has direct defensive utility.

In this designated target drill, I work multiple target transitions, at different heights, different distances, and different levels of difficulty.

The work I’m doing to shoot more aggressively is really paying off in performance.

Run this Target ID drill to get you working on basic transitions.

Want to make 10 yards easy? Learn to shoot at 25 yards aggressively with accountability.

Nothing beats discovering what you’re doing wrong, learning how to correct it, and then seeing immediate and measurable results.