How to Shoot a Pistol

You have purchased a pistol for sport shooting or for self-defense in your home, but you're not sure how to shoot it. Whether you chose a revolver or a semi-automatic pistol, there are certain things to remember when learning to shoot. Read on to learn how to shoot a pistol.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Slide the safety lever to "On." This is often signified by a black dot or a dark spot. Thoroughly read the literature specific to your gun to be sure. The safety must be on until the gun is ready to shoot.
2. Load ammunition into your pistol. If you have a revolver, the cylinder will rotate to the side for adding the bullets. If you own a semi-automatic, you will load the bullets into the clip and insert it into the bottom of the grip pushing firmly until it snaps in.
3. Pump a bullet into the chamber if you are using a semi-automatic by pulling back and releasing the slide on the top of the pistol. A revolver always has a bullet in the chamber if it is fully loaded.
4. Stand with one foot slightly behind the other in a well-balanced position. You must center your weight and be stable in your footing. Alternately, you may sit, or kneel to stabilize your body. Your shooting accuracy will depend on how still your body is.
5. Switch the safety to "Fire" only when you are in shooting position and ready to discharge the pistol. Hold the grips of the gun firmly with both hands. Your trigger finger will be beside, not on, the trigger. You will not put your finger on the trigger until you have sighted it in your target.
6. Aim by holding the pistol directly in front of you and lining up the sights on the top with the target. Keep both eyes open while you aim.
7. Squeeze the trigger with a smooth motion, moving only your finger. Hold your hands very still while squeezing. The slightest movement of your hand will result in a deflection from your target. Keep your eyes open as the gun discharges. Switch the safety back on until you're ready to shoot again.

Tips & Warnings

• A scope will mount to the top of your pistol for easier sighting-in of your target.
• If you have trouble holding the pistol still, try a shooting bench with a support for your arm.
• The safety switch must always be on when a gun is not being shot. On a semi-automatic the chamber must be empty until ready to shoot.
• Handguns are extremely dangerous and misuse causes many deaths every year. Guns are not toys and children must be instructed not to touch them.
• Every handgun owner is responsible for learning proper shooting procedure and for safely storing his pistol. Check with your local shooting club or police department to locate safety classes.