Practice at the range

[Anonymous]

I went to the range with my single six 22lr. I'm new at this so I want to ask about distance from target. What would be a good distance to practice with the 22? I also notice at my age 69 I have some hand shake causing me to pull some shot to the left and right. What is a good stance to steady my aim. Thanks guys. I think this is a good place to get some answers.

Rich

 

[Scott]

I'm very amateur - better shooters will have different opinions, but here's mine; I shoot mine mostly at about 25yards. that's about the right mix of a challenge but able to get a pretty small pattern. The "Weaver stance" works best for me. I hunt with mine a lot, and that's about as close as I can usually get to the rabbits & squirrels around here. Just for fun I'll back it out to 50yards, more with the .22mag, and I'll occasionallly move in to "self defense" distance of 20 to 50 feet. Have fun with that little gun - I sure do!

 

[Jayhawkhuntclub]

Rich: I would shoot at whatever distance that it's fun for you. And that's probably going to be the distance that you can reliably hit something. I'd try 5 yard increments of 10, 15, 20 and 25 yards. As for stance, probably something two handed. And don't limit yourself to shooting freehand. I shoot most of my targets from a sandbag. Have fun!

 

[Pal Val]

Only thing I might add is to try to get someone knowledgeable to help you get the right path on your shooting technique. Like every other skill, a bit of learning goes a long way.

Many of us got that learning for free when wearing the uniform, but not everyone can be so lucky as to have a DI breathing down his neck and screaming unto his ear while shooting a rifle. :lol: :lol: :lol:

 

[Pinecone]

RichB69, Best way to ease the "shakes" is to utilize some type of "rest". If your right handed, try resting the gun and right arm over your "left" arm. A nearby tree also works. When sitting, try your right knee and calf, etc. I sight my .22 Rimfires at 20 to 25 yards "dead on" because I shoot most of the critters at that range........................Dick :wink:

 

[Cracker-American]

When handgun hunting I use a "walking stick" made from a piece of hickory. Gives me sort of a monopod and works to calm down the shakes from; age, excitment or a combination of both.

And whatever range you feel comfortable with or are having fun with. Fun is important.

 

[Anonymous]

I think 25 yards and maybe 15 would be a good start. I served in the Air Force for 8yrs 5 years overseas. 18 months on Bien Hoa air base vietnam new years day 68 till August 69. I've had plenty of experience with rifles but not pistols. I've been away from firearms for along time and now retired so have time to hit the range alot. The single six22lr is some fun and cheap to shoot.

Rich

 

[mraywi]

When handgun hunting I use a "walking stick" made from a piece of hickory. Gives me sort of a monopod and works to calm down the shakes from; age, excitment or a combination of both.

And whatever range you feel comfortable with or are having fun with. Fun is important.

Oh yes great idea!
If you are new to shooting handguns,it is better to learn how to hit at 15-20 feet accurately then extend your distance.If you are new and start out at 25 yards you will quickly get discouraged. Maybe I am the worst shot in the world but that was my experience.

 

[Yosemite Sam]

When handgun hunting I use a "walking stick" made from a piece of hickory. Gives me sort of a monopod and works to calm down the shakes from; age, excitment or a combination of both.

And whatever range you feel comfortable with or are having fun with. Fun is important.

Oh yes great idea!
If you are new to shooting handguns,it is better to learn how to hit at 15-20 feet accurately then extend your distance.If you are new and start out at 25 yards you will quickly get discouraged. Maybe I am the worst shot in the world but that was my experience.

Agree 100%. I shot at an indoor range for years (50 FT. max), and did most of my shooting at 21 ft (7 yards). Once I got to the point I could make one-hole groups at that distance I moved out further.

I'm now shooting at a different range with 25 yard shooting lanes and am relatively happy with my targets, but it took a while to get there, and the "up close" practice taught me a lot. It's also a lot more satisfying to have good looking groups, which keeps your interest up.

-- Sam

 

[maxpress]

i like 15-25yrds any field stance is good. i see some gents kneel to take leg shake out. a "carpal tunnel" glove or other wrist stabalizer since most tremors are most aparent distaly might help.

 

[Anonymous]

I'll try short 10 - 15 yards and work my way out. I just joined the shooting club so haven't met anyone yet its and outdoor range and not really marked off in yards so I've been paceing.

Rich