How to Practice Shooting when You Can't Go to the Range

Shooting accurately is a sport that requires specialized use of muscles and body positioning to create a stable platform from which to fire the weapon. As such, it is possible to improve your shooting skills by strengthening these specific muscles and becoming accustom to the positions required to shoot.

Unfortunately, for many enthusiasts, limited time, money, and places to safely shoot inhibit their ability to hone their skill in their sport. This article will provide tips for the firearms enthusiast who would like to become a better shot but are unable to spend as much time at the range as they would like to.

Obviously, the best way to become better at any physical activity is to actually perform that activity. However, it is typically not practical, safe, or possible to construct a firearms range in our basements or backyards. It is often possible to construct an airsoft or bb gun range in a basement, backyard, or garage. In many instances, such a range will consist of a large cardboard box filled with newspaper with a home made paper target taped on the front. (Please note: There are many high powered bb guns on the market. This article deals with inexpensive, lower powered versions that will not penetrate the chosen back stop. Please ensure you are always safe with practicing with any type of firearm.)

Now one might ask, is shooting what is essentially a child's toy, good practice for shooting an actual firearm. The answer is yes... and no.

Shooting an airsoft gun will not simulate the recoil, heft, noise, or power of an actual firearm. It will, however allow the user to work on shooting positions, trigger control, safety practices, and basic marksmanship.

When shooting an airsoft or bb gun for practice, one should select the version that most closely resembles, in size, function, and sighting system, the actual firearm one will be using. Proper shooting positions should be assumed. Shots should be fired for maximum accuracy. Proper safety and shooting technique should be used at all times.

Since distance will likely be severely limited, targets should be of smaller size than one would normally use. Again, we are going for maximum possible precision here, understanding that in all likelihood we will be dealing with weapons with far less inherent accuracy than our actual firearm.

It should further be understood that the triggers on these practice "firearms" will likely be much rougher than the triggers on the actual weapons. In the long run, this will work to our advantage, as returning to your "real" trigger will seem much easier than the rough one you have become accustom to.

For more realistic practice and to increase your stamina for actual range shooting, consider adding some weight to you bb or airsoft gun. This will help you by strengthening the muscles you use to shoot, thus making you steadier and more able to control your weapon.

In summary, an in-home or backyard range set up for shooting airsoft or bb guns will help you become a better shot with your actual firearms. These "ranges" are available during any weather and cost little or nothing to construct and use. Ammunition is generally cheap and reusable. This simple tip will allow you to increase your shooting skill anytime, safely and affordably.