USCCA Firearms & Self-Defense Blog
Firearms Training
Discover firearms tactics and techniques, training tips, and shooting drills for at home and on the range to help you hone your practical skills and self-defense mindset.
Recent Firearms Training Articles
Cover vs. Concealment for Self-Defense
Understanding the distinctions between cover and concealment is crucial for self-defense and effective defensive firearms use. Here we’ll explain what these terms mean, how to identify each and the im[…]
Continue Reading →How to Choose a Shooting Target for Firearms Training
Choosing the right target for firearms training is a critical aspect of effective and realistic preparation. The target should not only help in improving accuracy but also in decision-making under str[…]
Continue Reading →Basics of Sight Picture and Sight Alignment
Sight picture and sight alignment are crucial aspects of marksmanship and defensive firearms training. These fundamentals, often overshadowed by trigger control and grip, are essential for achieving p[…]
Continue Reading →Is It Safe to Dry-Fire?
Originally published in Concealed Carry Magazine, 2008. “Is it Safe to Dry-Fire My Handgun?” When people ask this question, they are almost invariably asking about the mechanical function of their fir[…]
Continue Reading →How to Train Cross-Eye Dominance
For those interested in how to concealed carry, mastering the art of shooting is crucial. One often overlooked aspect that can significantly impact accuracy is cross-eye dominance. Eye dominance is th[…]
Continue Reading →The Four Rules of Firearm Safety
In the world of firearms, safety is paramount. When there is an “accident,” it is typically because someone failed to follow one of the gun safety rules. That, of course, means the shooting was not ac[…]
Continue Reading →Shooting Stance 101: Build a Solid Platform
When it comes to handgun proficiency, simplicity and consistency are your greatest allies. I’ve honed a steadfast approach to shooting through my years of diverse training in the police academy,[…]
Continue Reading →Striker-Fired vs. Hammer-Fired Pistols
When it comes to choosing a firearm for self-defense, it’s crucial to understand the differences between striker-fired and hammer-fired handguns. Many people might not be familiar with the techn[…]
Continue Reading →How to Grip Your Pistol
Gripping a pistol correctly is the cornerstone of accuracy, control and safety. Whether you’re a beginner learning how to hold a pistol or a seasoned shooter refining your techniques, understand[…]
Continue Reading →Weighing in: Strength Training is Gun Training
It can be easy to forget that not all firearms training involves shooting ranges, ammunition or even guns. For instance, there’s a lot to be said about the importance of including regular exercise and[…]
Continue Reading →Flexibility vs. Mastery in Firearms Training
I came across an interesting statement the other day that read something like the following: “Flexibility is greater than mastery.” I just had to pause for a bit and contemplate that. At first, I thou[…]
Continue Reading →What Is the 21-Foot ‘Rule’?
The 21-foot rule is an often talked about concept in self-defense circles. It plays a crucial role in determining when one can use force to protect oneself or others. This tactical approach was develo[…]
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