If you're a left-handed shooter, you may have noticed that shooting can be a bit more challenging for you than for your right-handed counterparts. This is because we live in a right-handed world, and left-handed shooters have to make adjustments to get the same level of accuracy. However, with the right techniques and some practice, left-handed shooters can improve their accuracy and become just as proficient as right-handed shooters.
In this blog post, we'll go over 8 tips to help left-handed shooters improve their shooting accuracy.
Tips and Tricks to Boost Shooting Accuracy for Left-Handed Marksmen
If you're a left-hand shooter looking to improve your accuracy, here are a few tips that can help you out:
1) Choose the Correct Left Handed Firearm
Credit: Envato Elements/ NomadSoul1
While many firearms are designed for right-handed shooters, there are plenty of left-handed choices available that offer ambidextrous controls and other features that can make shooting more convenient for lefties. Some left-handed firearms even allow for the cocked and locked carry method, which is not possible with most right-handed guns.
When selecting a left-handed model, remember to take into account your eye dominance. Many left-handed shooters are left-eye dominant, meaning their left eye is stronger and more accurate. Choosing a left-handed gun with a left-sided ejection port can make it easier to aim with your dominant eye.
Finally, it's important to pay attention to the left-hand bolt in the left-hand versions of the gun. Taking the time to find a left-handed pistol or firearm that fits your needs and feels comfortable in your hands can make a big difference in your shooting ability.
2) Practice Good Stance and Grip
Left-handed shooters often struggle with their stance and grip because most shooting instructors are right-handed and teach right-handed techniques. However, left-handed shooters need to develop their own techniques to achieve accuracy.
When it comes to stance, left-handed shooters should stand with their feet shoulder-width apart and place their left foot slightly forward. This will help to provide stability while shooting.
For grip, left-handed shooters should place their left hand on the gun's grip, while their right hand supports the gun from underneath. The left hand should be positioned so that the left thumb is on the same side as the ejection port. This will prevent the shooter's thumb from being hit by the ejected cartridge.
3) Practice Sight Alignment and Sight Picture
Credit: Envato Elements/ orcearo
Sight alignment and sight picture are critical for accuracy in shooting. Sight alignment refers to the position of the front and rear sights in relation to the target, while sight picture refers to the alignment of the sights with the target.
Left-handed shooters need to be mindful of their sight alignment and sight picture because they are viewing the target from a different angle than right-handed shooters. To achieve the proper alignment and picture, left-handed shooters should adjust the position of their head so that they are looking through the sights from the correct angle.
4) Practice Trigger Control
Trigger control is another important factor to consider. Left-handed shooters may have to make adjustments to their trigger finger position to achieve good trigger control. The trigger finger should be positioned so that it pulls straight back, rather than at an angle.
It's also important to practice proper trigger control techniques. One technique is to use the pad of the trigger finger, rather than the crease of the first joint, to pull the trigger. This allows for greater control and accuracy.
5) Practice Breathing and Follow-Through
Credit: Envato Elements/ BlackWhaleMedia
Breathing techniques can help to improve stability and reduce movement while shooting. Left-handed shooters should take a deep breath, exhale half of it, and hold their breath while taking the shot.
Follow-through is also important for accuracy. This refers to the shooter's ability to maintain their position after taking the shot. This will help to ensure that the shot hits the intended target.
6) Learn to Read the Wind
When shooting outdoors, the wind can be one of the biggest challenges that a shooter faces. The wind can cause the bullet to drift off course and miss the target, which can be particularly difficult for left-handed shooters. Since left-handed shooters typically shoot with the wind coming from their right side, they need to be especially aware of the wind and make adjustments to their aim accordingly.
To effectively read the wind, left-handed shooters should pay attention to the wind direction and speed. They can do this by observing the movement of trees, grass, or other objects in the environment. They should also check the weather forecast and use a wind meter if possible to get a more accurate reading of the wind speed and direction.
Once left-handed shooters have a sense of the wind conditions, they can adjust their aim by aiming to the right or left of the target, depending on the wind direction. They can also adjust their holdover or hold under, which refers to the amount of space they should leave between the target and the crosshairs, to account for the wind.
7) Use Training Aids
Credit: Envato Elements/ Loabachad
Training aids are devices that can help shooters (especially left-hand shooters) develop their technique, build muscle memory, and improve their shooting consistency. Here are a few examples of training aids that can be particularly useful for left-handed shooters:
Laser Training Devices
Laser training devices are a great way to practice your aim and trigger control without using live ammunition. These devices emit a laser beam that simulates the firing of a gun. They can be particularly useful for left-handed shooters who choose to shoot with a right-handed firearm.
Recoil Pads
Recoil pads are designed to absorb the recoil of a gun, reducing the amount of felt recoil that the shooter experiences. This can be particularly useful for left-handed shooters who may have trouble with recoil if they are shooting with their non-dominant eye. By reducing recoil, recoil pads can help you develop better control and accuracy.
Grip Trainers
Grip trainers are devices that are designed to help shooters develop a stronger grip on their guns. They can be particularly useful for left-handed shooters who may have trouble finding guns that fit comfortably in their hands. By using a grip trainer, you can develop a stronger, more stable grip that helps to reduce movement and improve accuracy.
Shooting Rests
Shooting rests are devices that are designed to provide a stable platform for shooting. They can be particularly useful for left-handed shooters who may have trouble finding a comfortable shooting position. By using a shooting rest, you can stabilize your gun and reduce the recoil.
8) Join a Shooting Community
Lastly, joining a shooting community can be a great way for left-handed shooters to learn from experienced shooters and improve their skills. Look for local shooting ranges or clubs that offer classes or training sessions for left-handed shooters. You may also be able to find online forums or social media groups that cater to lefties and provide valuable advice and support.
Summary
To become a more proficient left-handed shooter, make sure to incorporate these tips into your training routine. Remember that practice is essential, regardless of whether you're a left-handed or right-handed shooter. Keep at it and stay patient as improvement can take time.
Looking to improve your shooting skills? EasyShot shooting targets is an excellent way to monitor your progress. These targets are specially designed to provide you with immediate and precise feedback on your shots, making it easier to identify areas that need improvement. With a range of target designs and colors available, you can select the one that best suits your training goals and preferences. Visit our shop today to get started on improving your accuracy.