Spent some time on the range yesterday. It appears I have a healing problem.

[dshepherd7]

I've seen a few people post a target chart showing which errors you are making, if your grouping is consistently in the same spot. (Encyclopedia of Bullseye Pistol) It appears I have an issue with heeling. Any basic ways to combat this, or tips for while I'm practicing. I'm new to pistol shooting in high quantities, and am looking to get better.

All advice is welcome. Thanks in advance.

 

[scwv67]

One way to see what you're doing would be to buy some snap caps, and have someone load a few at random in your magazine. Since it won't be masked by recoil, it may be readily visible exactly what you're doing when you pull the trigger on a cap

Having someone watch you closely while you shoot can be helpful also.

 

[WR Moore]

You mention you found the chart on a Bullseye website. Be advised that chart is intended for those who only use one hand on the firearm. Some of the stuff does transfer for those with two hands on the firearm, some doesn't.

If your point of impact (POI) is above your point of aim (POA), it helps to know how much. Many pistols are sighted to place the rounds about 2-2.5 inches high at 25 yards. Watch your sight alignment and picture very closely and see if that helps.

 

[Stu1205]

I go by this chart. It seemed to help me.
Hope it works for you.

Stu

 

[Old cop]

Place a snap cap on top of the slide, just behind the front sight then extend the weapon as if you were about to shoot it. When you pull the trigger the snap cap should stay put. If not you're moving more than your trigger finger, or in anticipation of recoil, you're attempting to push or help the round out of the barrel.

 

[gwpercle]

If your groups are consistent, hold and stance feel comfortable, maybe you don't have a problem. Trying to force a hold or stance or grip may cause other problems to crop up. Go with what feels good and natural to you, then adjust the sights to hit where the groups are....TA-DA No more problem!
Target and/or custom grips help give you a proper hold and effect a change in impact, but don't be afraid to move the sights.
Gary

 

[shocker]

Assuming the grip of the gun reasonably fits your hand and the trigger is decent....

It takes humility to do this, but the random dummy round - snap cap in the magazine or cylinder is very revealing.
Scenario 1 - hammer-striker falls, no bang but sights stay on target.... congratulations.
Scenario 2 - Whoa - flinch. Back to drawing board. A 22 cal handgun to the rescue.

 

[Big Cholla]

You may not have a 'heeling' problem. It may just be that you just got tired. Practice perfectly and quit shooting when you start to get tired. It also helps to work to get your adrenaline up a little. Practice with someone else and place a small bet on each target string. Take up dry firing at home. Do it a lot. Start an exercise program for your upper body and hand strengths. Then, get really good personal coaching from someone that knows good handgun shooting basics. .............