Making dry fire more functional
Unrealistic static draws and speed reloads in staged environments ad nauseum. This is the majority of what we see on the internet for dry fire. From a technical standpoint we need to reinforce the mechanics so I’m not advocating for not practicing in this manner, I practice this way as well, but we also need to put focus on our reality.
If we’re looking through the lens of self-protection, from a statistical standpoint, as a civilian there is no data supporting self defense encounters that required a reload. In other words, it rarely, if ever, happens. Does this mean we don’t practice reloads or carry an extra mag in case we are the exception? Of course not.
Does your dry fire include reps for more realistic scenarios you’re likely to encounter? This is critical for a well-rounded skillset.. Here are a few to think about.
Do we stand waiting to check out in the grocery store in a fighting stance? Probably not. Hands cupped under our shirt to beat a timer? Doubtful. Perfectly facing our attacker ready to pounce at his first move? No, we do not. So, what is your dry fire preparing you for exactly? The range? IG? None of these would matter in that worst moment.
What is the reality of our daily routines? For most people that reality is groceries stores, Home Depot, holding bags and kids or stopping to tie our shoes head down. We could be facing 90° or 180° from a potential threat or maybe not even recognize the attack until the threat is in our face.
How about tight spaces like an elevator where a proper draw would be compromised. What does the background look like? I guarantee there is no berm. Most probably there will be people, maybe kids.
We experience all kinds of weather where jackets and gloves will affect speed and accessibility.
We all know the quote, “Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face.” Start dry firing with that in mind. Practice for the unexpected because chances are that’s when it’ll happen. This means confronting weaknesses and fixing them regarding marksmanship, fitness, and our actual abilities to function under duress.
Write down your week. Where you went, who you were with and what you wore. Did you have to hold bags or carry kids? Were you in large open areas or tight confined spaces? Now start adding in threat scenarios to that list. Could you draw and use your EDC efficiently? Could you sprint 100 yds after someone that just grabbed your child and then use your pistol at that heart rate? Start dry firing with 90° and 180° turns, tie your shoes with eyes off target then react and draw. Start incorporating items around the house that can double as children or groceries in your arms.
Add value and not theatrics to your dry fire. Make it more functional and have it mirror your reality.
Prioritize your training.
Build on-demand performance through drills that develop and pressure test speed, accuracy, distance, and movement with your gun.