How much practice is required to become a “good shooter” with modern/military rifles?
Hi. I’m interested in possibly pursuing a military career. I’m a talented athlete and I’m clever, but I have no experience with rifles. I’ve lived in "the city" all my life, and I haven’t ever owned any firearms – or even really ever known anyone in particular who owns firearms. Anyway, because of my physical nature and personal interests, I’d like to consider becoming involved in Special Operations. I know I’ve got what it takes in most areas, but I’m totally unsure when it comes to guns. Does it matter that I didn’t grow up on a farm somewhere with lots of shooting and hunting every weekend? Could I practice and work my way up to a high level without having to have grown up as "a shooter"?
SOF operators obviously must be skilled marksmen. I’ve heard they must be 90% accurate at 600m with assault rifles… Is this true? If so, how long would it take a talented athlete to master accurate shooting? Remember, I didn’t grow up in the boonies with a rifle stashed under every pillow.
Thanks in advance!
Also, if you feel particularly helpful, feel free to include any tips for a first-time shooter. What should I begin with? How far away? The basics. I’m brand new to shooting. Thanks.
Posted in Military Rifles
January 22nd, 2010 at 9:10 pm
i suggest seeking out a source for the expanded hunters safety course most states require in order to get a hunting license. The expanded class goes into the basics of shooting but also provides the more important beginner information on safe handling and identifying ‘down range’ issues. That would be enough to get you started, the military will provide specific instruction.
January 22nd, 2010 at 9:10 pm
The M-16 is an extremely accurate and easy gun to shoot. And it will help you out loads for starting fresh for when the drill instructor explains it to you, you will not have any bad self taught habits. Hand gun is the same way, if you have never shot it before you will learn well. It was this way for me anyhow, and I notice it goes better for those who did not try learning on their own. The hand gun obviously requires more skill, but it is a fun one.
Rifles are easy, and will not give you any trouble. Really, shooting weapons is easy, it is people who are scared of them that shoot badly because of the fear.
January 22nd, 2010 at 9:10 pm
they will teach you. but there are so many factors in shooting long distances there is no one answer. its not hard but for the most part you can shoot or you can’t shoot. don’t try to teach yourself because you will just develop bad habits. they like training people who have never held a weapon.
January 22nd, 2010 at 9:10 pm
Never forget the basics:
1. Sight Alignment
2.Sight Picture
3.Aim Center Mast
Basically, just make sure that you can see your target. Make sure your target is in the center of your sights. And make sure that you aim right in the center of the widest part of your target. It’s that simple. Enjoy your new career. Semper-Fi!
January 22nd, 2010 at 9:10 pm
If you’re considering the infantry, which include Special Ops, they will teach you what you need to know. And as was said before, you are like a blank canvas, so listen to your instructors. As far as practicing, I recommend getting an air rifle first. That way, there is a lot less "kick", and almost no noise. This is good for mastering the fundamentals. Then once you’re comfortable, step up to a .22LR. Like a cap gun, except it can kill. Handguns are a whole different matter, which I don’t have the space to get into. Hope this helps and good luck
January 22nd, 2010 at 9:10 pm
Dont stress so much. They will teach you all you need to know about shooting and gun maintence in Basic. You will have no bad habits to unlearn and as long as you take it seriously and dont have a fear of guns you will be fine. My husband had never fired a rifle before joining the Army but now is a very good marksman.
A little advise though if you are planning on joining anytime soon. There are a lot of people from what you call the "boonies" ( Which your tone was really very insulting) who join the military and if you go in with that attitude you are going to make a few people angry so try to change your thinking about those who didnt grow up in cities. No one likes someone coming in thinking they are better than everyone else.