The ability to shoot a handgun proficiently is an important skill for anyone who owns or plans to own one. Handgun proficiency is not only about being able to hit a target, but also about understanding the proper techniques and having the proper mindset for using a handgun in self-defense.
In my opinion, the group who struggles the most with handgun proficiency is the concealed carrier crowd so this will mostly be focused towards them.
There are many concealed carriers out there who have never had any formal training beyond the required permit class. While taking a permit class is a great start to understanding the laws, it is not enough to make someone proficient with a handgun. In order to be a responsible and safe concealed carrier, one must take the time to learn how to shoot properly and how to use their handgun for self-defense.
So what is handgun proficiency?
There is a lot of misinformation out there about what it means to be proficient with a handgun. Some people think that you only need to be able to shoot accurately from a few feet away. Others think that you need to have extensive experience shooting in difficult and dangerous situations. The truth is, being proficient with a handgun means something different for everyone. It depends on your goals, your abilities, and sometimes depends on the type of handgun you are using.
One of the most important things to understand about proficiency is that it is not a static skill. You do not achieve proficiency and then stop learning. Rather, proficiency is something that you work towards your entire life. There are always new techniques to learn and new situations to practice for. The goal is to never stop improving your skills so that you can be the best possible concealed carrier you can be.
So, how can you work towards becoming more proficient with your handgun? You need to understand the handgun fundamentals. Once you have these basic skills down, you can start working on more advanced techniques like shooting from different positions and moving while shooting. You should also make sure to practice and train regularly so that you can keep your skills sharp. The more you practice and train, the better you will become at using your handgun for self-defense.
Practice and training are key when it comes to becoming proficient with a handgun. We'll cover the difference between the two in another post.
In addition to being able to shoot accurately, you must also understand how to use your handgun for self-defense. This includes learning proper techniques, mindset and local laws for using your handgun in a defensive situation. As a concealed carrier, you have a responsibility to yourself and to those around you to be proficient with your handgun. This means being able to shoot accurately and responsibly, and having the knowledge and skills to use your handgun properly in a self-defense situation.
If you are serious about becoming a responsible and safe concealed carrier, then you need to make sure that you are proficient with your handgun. Take the time to learn the basics, train occasionally and then practice regularly. By doing this, you will be prepared to use your handgun for self-defense in any situation. Remember, proficiency is not a static skill - it is something that you work towards your entire life. Start learning today and never stop improving your skills!
What level of proficiency do you think a concealed carrier needs? Share your thoughts in the comments below!