Firearm Training Drills
How Often Should You Practice Dry Firing?
Dry fire training is an essential part of building shooting skills, but how often should you do it to see real improvement? The answer depends on your schedule, experience level, and commitment—but the more consistently you practice, the better your results will be.
We recommend aiming for dry fire practice anywhere from once a week to daily. While fitting in a session every single day can be a challenge, three to four times a week strikes a great balance that’s easy to stick with.
Think of it like going to the gym. If you’re serious about seeing progress, working out once a month won’t cut it—and dry firing is no different. Regular practice builds muscle memory, sharpens focus, and speeds up results.
Here’s the best part: it doesn’t take much time to make a difference. A quick 10-15 minutes every day or every other day is all you need for impactful training. If your schedule only allows for weekly sessions, extend them to 20-30 minutes or more to stay effective.
The key is consistency. Make dry fire practice a routine, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly your skills improve. Ready to take your training to the next level? Start small, stay consistent, and watch your precision and confidence soar.
How Much Practice Shooting Do You Need to Get “Really Good?"
The question of how much practice it takes to become “really good” with a handgun comes up often. While "really good" can mean different things to different people, let’s define it: being proficient enough to defend yourself under any circumstance. This means better-than-average accuracy at speed—not just hitting the target when you take your time, but delivering accurate shots quickly and efficiently in a self-defense scenario.
Here’s the truth: most shooters have room for improvement. Adequate skills might get you through a basic range session, but reaching a level where you’re prepared for a real-life encounter requires consistent effort, structured training, and deliberate practice.
What Does It Take to Improve?
Consistency Matters
Training regularly is key to reinforcing good habits and eliminating bad ones. Practicing sporadically or only during specific months won’t cut it. A shooter who trains twice a week year-round will outperform someone who trains three times a week but only for a few months.Dry Fire: The Secret Weapon
Dry fire practice is one of the most effective ways to build skill. Just 10-15 minutes a day can dramatically improve your draw, aim, and trigger control. While live fire at the range is crucial, dry fire practice should be a consistent part of your routine.Perfect Practice Makes Perfect
Simply “putting in the time” isn’t enough. Practicing incorrectly reinforces bad habits, which can be dangerous in a real-life encounter. Structured training from professionals ensures you’re practicing the right techniques from the start.Quality Over Quantity
At the range, focus on making every shot count. You don’t need to fire hundreds of rounds in one session. Instead, aim to shoot at least 50 rounds per visit, treating every shot as if it’s the one that could save your life.
Critical Skills to Master
To truly excel, these skills should become second nature:
Drawing your firearm while moving off the line of attack or toward cover.
Shooting quickly and accurately immediately after drawing.
Reloading (both speed and tactical) under pressure.
Clearing stoppages efficiently.
Engaging multiple targets at varying distances.
Practicing defensive shot placement: two to the chest and one to the head.
Shooting at self-defense distances (2 to 10 yards) while moving or using cover.
Move Beyond Static Practice
Standing still at the range and shooting at stationary targets won’t prepare you for real-world encounters. Learning to move and shoot—or shoot from cover—can save your life in a deadly situation. This is why we are here to help you!
The Path to Mastery
Becoming “really good” takes dedication and time. A well-rounded training regimen combining dry fire and live fire is essential. If you’re serious about improving your skills, sign up for TriggerTime VOD classes today. These classes provide the structured training you need to perform under stress and refine your abilities.
Remember, you can’t shortcut the process. But with consistent practice, quality training, and determination, you can reach a high level of proficiency. Don’t just settle for being adequate—take the steps to be ready for anything.
$0.25 Dry Trigger Control
From Home
*NO LIVE AMMO AROUND *
On The Range Drills
IDPA 5x5 MODERATE to ADVANCED
What You'll Need For This Drill:
Live Fire Range
25 Rounds
A Shot Timer
Silhouette Target
Master the IDPA 5×5 Classifier Drill:
A Benchmark for Defensive Shooting
Looking to sharpen your shooting skills for real-world self-defense? The IDPA 5×5
Classifier Drill is a simple yet powerful tool to help you build and assess key skills.
With just a target, a timer, and 25 rounds, you can elevate your performance while
measuring the fundamentals that matter most in critical moments.
What makes it so effective
No props required: Just a standard target at 10 yards.
Efficient and focused: 25 rounds divided into four distinct shooting strings.
Practical skills tested: Accuracy, draw speed, recoil management, reloads, and more—all under the pressure of a timer.
How To Perform The Drill
Set up the drill, place a IDPA or USPSA silhouette target 10 yards from the firing line with the shoulders 5 feet off the ground.
Four shooting strings, each targeting different skills:
String 1: Draw and fire 5 rounds freestyle (any grip).
String 2: Draw and fire 5 rounds using only your strong hand.
String 3: Draw and fire 5 rounds, perform an emergency reload, and fire 5 more rounds freestyle.
(Ensure the first magazine only holds 5 rounds.)
String 4: Draw and fire 4 rounds to the center, followed by 1 headshot freestyle.
Scoring the IDPA 5×5 Classifier
The IDPA prioritizes accuracy, with scoring zones on the target directly affecting your time:
Down Zero: Center and head circles—no added time.
Down One: Surrounding areas—adds 1 second per shot.
Down Three: Outer edges—adds 3 seconds per shot.
Misses: Add 5 seconds each.
Your score is the total time for all four strings plus any penalties for missed accuracy. The goal? Shoot as fast as you can while maintaining precision.
Tips for Each String
String 1: Resist the urge to rush. Focus on a clean draw and precise shots.
String 2: Start in a strong, balanced stance to control your one-handed shots.
String 3: Take your time on the reload. Smooth is fast, and accuracy after the reload is critical.
String 4: Slow down for the headshot—it’s worth the extra second to land it cleanly.
How to Use the 5×5 in Your Training
Use it to:
Track progress: Run the drill periodically to measure improvement.
Warm up: Shooting cold can reveal how you’d perform under real-world pressure (But do we get this in "Real Life")
However, remember that this drill doesn’t test every skill you’ll need for IDPA matches or self-defense, like shooting on the move or engaging multiple targets. Supplement it with drills that cover those scenarios.
What Matters Most? Accuracy or Speed?
Whether it’s IDPA competition or self-defense, accuracy always beats speed if you can't hit the target with that first fast shot. In real-world scenarios, a fast miss won’t stop a threat, but a precise shot will. Use the 5×5 to hone your ability to make every shot count—because in critical moments, there’s no second chance. Use this drill to push your limits of speed, gaining the ability to accurately shot quickly.
Final Thoughts
The IDPA 5×5 Classifier Drill is more than a test—it’s a powerful tool for mastering the fundamentals of defensive shooting. Simple, efficient, and effective, it challenges shooters of all levels to perform under pressure. Ready to see where you stand? Load up, hit the range, and let the timer tell the story.
Dot Torture Drill: MODERATE
What you'll need:
Live Range (No Walking, No Movement)
50 rounds
Master Your Fundamentals: The Dot Torture Drill
Are you ready to elevate your shooting skills to the next level? The Dot Torture Drill is a
comprehensive and humbling challenge designed to sharpen your accuracy, focus, and
technique. Whether you're training for self-defense or refining your marksmanship, this
drill hits all the essentials.
Why Try the Dot Torture Drill?
At its core, the Dot Torture Drill may seem simple: shoot 50 rounds at a series of 2-inch dots. But don't let its simplicity fool you. This drill demands:
Intense Focus: Precision shooting on small targets.
Flawless Trigger Control: One wrong press, and you'll miss the mark.
Strong and Weak-Hand Proficiency: Essential for real-world scenarios.
Holster Draws and Reloads: Incorporating dynamic skills into your training.
Target Transitions: Sharpening your ability to shift focus between targets.
It's not just a practice drill—it's a test of fundamentals that highlights areas for improvement.
How to Perform the Dot Torture Drill
Setup:
Print a free Dot Torture target above.
Place it at a distance of 3 yards (to start).
Begin with your sidearm holstered and ready.
The Targets:
The target consists of 10 numbered dots, each with its own challenge:
Dot 1: Fire a 5-shot group. Focus on accuracy.
Dot 2: Draw and fire one shot, repeat 5 times. Practice a smooth draw and steady aim.
Dots 3 & 4: Draw and fire one shot on Dot 3, then transition to Dot 4. Re-holster and repeat 4 times.
Dot 5: Fire 5 rounds using your strong hand only.
Dots 6 & 7: Fire 2 shots on Dot 6, then transition to Dot 7 for 2 shots. Repeat 4 times.
Dot 8: Fire 5 rounds with your weak hand only.
Dots 9 & 10: Draw, fire one shot on Dot 9, reload, then fire one shot on Dot 10. Repeat 3 times.
Take your time. This is not a timed drill—accuracy is the goal.
Tips for Success
Start Close and Build Distance: Begin at 3 yards. Once you can consistently shoot clean (no misses), gradually increase the distance to 5 or even 7 yards.
Focus on Form: Perfect your stance, grip, and sight alignment. Small errors are amplified on a 2-inch target.
Stay Calm Under Pressure: Each dot challenges a different skill. Focus on the current target and leave past mistakes behind.
Practice Weak-Hand Shooting: Dot 8 can be a struggle. Regularly include weak-hand shooting in your training to improve.
Add Complexity: Once you’ve mastered the basics, introduce time limits (e.g., 5 minutes for a clean run) to simulate pressure.
Why Dot Torture Matters
Some critics argue the drill isn’t “real-world” enough. While it doesn't simulate every scenario, the Dot Torture Drill is a benchmark for fundamentals. Use it to:
Measure Progress: Test your skills periodically to gauge improvement or areas that need attention.
Challenge Yourself: Few drills are as humbling—and rewarding—as this one.
Sharpen Accuracy: The small targets demand precision and punish sloppy shooting.
Make It Your Own
Ready to take on Dot Torture? Start with the basics, then customize:
Adjust the distance.
Incorporate timing for added challenge.
Compete with friends to make practice more engaging.
Final Thoughts
The Dot Torture Drill isn’t for the faint of heart, but it’s one of the best ways to refine your skills. Be prepared for some frustration—it’s called “torture” for a reason—but the payoff is worth it.
NO AMMO DRILLS
Holster Draw Drill
Step-by-Step Training
This drill is designed to improve your draw speed and efficiency safely using dry-fire practice. With the use of a shot timer (smartphone app or standard), you'll perform each step of the draw methodically, focusing on speed without sacrificing proper form. Repetition is key to success. We'd suggest a shot timer app on your smart phone for home use simply because they're not as loud for the indoor setting. If others live with you it's also possible to use headphones for the timer's beep.
Safety First
Before starting:
- Unload your firearm: Remove the magazine, clear the chamber, and triple-check that your pistol is empty.
- Store all live ammunition in a separate location, far from your training area.
- Always practice in a safe, controlled environment.
The Drill
Start with the "Go Signal"
Use a shot timer to if you can to provide a "go signal" (a beep) that will prompt each step. Respond to the beep with deliberate, smooth movements. Go only as fast as you can commit to performing each action properly. You can download a free shot timer in the app store. These apps work well at home but NOT on the range.
Step 1: Grab the Pistol
- Your dominant hand moves to the firearm and assumes a strong, proper grip.
- If carrying concealed, your support hand clears the garment: Grab the shirt and pull it upward and out of the way.
Repetition: Perform this movement repeatedly on the timer until it feels smooth and natural.
For Duty or Competition Rigs:
- Your support hand moves to the centerline, just below your chest.
- Your dominant hand positions itself to defeat any retention devices.
Step 2: Defeat Retention (Duty/Competition Rigs Only)
- Practice defeating your holster's retention devices.
- For a Level 3 Holster:
- Push down and forward to defeat the SLS device.
- Pull rearward to defeat the ALS device.
Perform this step 100 times to develop smooth and consistent movements.
Pro Tip: Mastering retention devices shows they don't slow you down as much as you'd think.
Step 3: Shrug (Clearing the Holster)
- Shrug the gun upward to clear the holster.
- Support Hand Movement: Your support hand should move centerline, ready to meet the dominant hand.
- Practice this action slowly and deliberately at first, in a mirror if possible, orienting the gun toward the target.
Step 4: Orient the Gun
- Drive your elbow down as you clear the holster to orient the pistol toward the target.
- This position allows you to fire quickly if needed at close range and before you're target is in your sights.
- Important: Avoid exaggerated or jerky movements. Fast and firm is the goal. Be Deliberate.
Step 5: Meet the Hands and Drive the Pistol Forward
- Bring your support hand to meet the dominant hand as you drive the Pistol forward.
- Assume a proper two-handed grip as you present the firearm toward the target.
- Focus on sight alignment as the pistol moves into position.
Troubleshooting: If you struggle to find your sights, refine your presentation.
Repetition: Building Muscle Memory
Use a pyramid-style drill to build the draw step-by-step. Start small, and add steps as you progress:
- 10 Reps: Grab the pistol and move the support hand to centerline.
- 10 Reps: Grab the pistol, move support hand centerline, and defeat retention.
- 10 Reps: Grab the pistol, defeat retention, and clear the holster.
- 10 Reps: Grab the pistol, defeat retention, clear the holster, and drive the elbow down.
- 10 Reps: Grab the pistol, defeat retention, clear the holster, drive the elbow down, and drive the pistol forward (hands meet).
Repeat this sequence until it feels fluid and consistent. Aim for 100 reps per step over time.
Progress Takes Time: Don't expect to get faster overnight. Focus on form and precision.
Repetition Is Key: The more consistent reps you perform, the smoother and faster your draw will become.
Sleep and Muscle Memory: Your brain will reinforce the skills you've practiced, even while you sleep.
Remember: The draw is a perishable skill. Maintain it with frequent, focused practice.
If you carry or intend to carry a firearm, proficiency in drawing your firearm from its holster is essential. Equally important is the ability to safely re-holster your firearm however, when re-holstering, remember that speed is not a priority. You now have the luxury of time. Focus on safety and ensure the holster area is clear of any obstructions, such as clothing, to facilitate a smooth, secure and SAFE re-holstering process.
Train Safe. Train Hard. Train Often.
$0.25 Dry Trigger
What you'll need:
A Quarter, $0.25
Your Firearm (with a flat front barrel surface)
A Safe Place to Practice
Safety First
Clear the Area: Remove all live ammunition from the practice area. Store it securely in another room.
Clear the Firearm:
Remove the magazine
Rack the slide several times to eject any chambered rounds.
Lock the slide open and visually and physically inspect the chamber to confirm the firearm is unloaded.
Remove any and all live ammunition from any magazine you will use for training.
Remove ALL ammunition from the room you are training in completely
Do not leave the firearm unsecured and unattended at any time.
Dry-Fire's Going to Hurt My Firearm
Let’s talk briefly about dry firing. Before you start, check your specific firearm and manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure dry firing is safe for your firearm.
For most modern firearms, dry firing causes no damage. The concern about dry firing typically originates from older firearms, revolvers, and rimfire guns. While there’s some truth to this for those older models and rimfires, it’s largely a myth when it comes to modern pistols.
If your firearm is one of the exceptions where dry firing is not recommended, you can purchase snap caps or a specialized dry-fire device to practice safely
Setup for Practice
Choose a safe direction, ideally one with a backstop (e.g., a reinforced wall or furniture).
Use a dedicated target, such as a sticky note or a small dot on the wall, for aiming.
Have a quarter handy.
The Balancing Quarter Drill
This drill develops trigger control, sight alignment, and overall steadiness.
Steps
Setup:
Ensure your pistol is unloaded and safe.
Rack the slide of your firearm.
Balancing the Quarter:
Gently place a quarter (or a coin of similar size) on the flat surface of the pistol's front sight or barrel.
Make sure the coin is balanced and stable before proceeding.
Dry-Fire Action:
Assume your shooting stance. Grip the pistol as you normally would for live fire.
Align your sights with your designated target.
Slowly and smoothly press the trigger without disturbing the alignment of the sights or causing the quarter to fall.
If the quarter stays in place, your trigger press is smooth and controlled.
Reset and Repeat:
Rack the slide to reset the trigger, ensuring no ammunition is present.
Rebalance the quarter and repeat the drill. Aim for 10 successful trigger pulls in a row.
Tips for Success
Focus on a steady, even press of the trigger straight to the rear.
Avoid flinching or anticipating the "shot" even though it's a dry-fire exercise.
Practice using your standard grip of the pistol.
If desired different types of dryfire devices can be purchased that would help with this drill not requiring the slide to be racked for every trigger pull. This device for a Glock 17 is a trigger reset tool and work really well paired with this drill.
Bonus Drills
Wall Drill: Aim at a blank wall (no target) to focus solely on maintaining a smooth trigger press without visual distractions.
Timed Repetitions: Download a free shot timer to add consistency to your trigger press and improve your focus under simulated pressure.
Wrap-Up
Always end your session by confirming the firearm is still clear and unloaded.
Only insert live ammunition if you are returning your firearm back to duty/ready state and secured.
Firearms should not be stored loaded!
Dry Magazine Reloads
Dry-fire reload drills help improve your speed and efficiency in reloading a pistol. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Safety First
Clear the Area: Remove all live ammunition from your training area. Store it securely in another room.
Clear the Firearm:
Eject the magazine and rack the slide multiple times to ensure the chamber is empty.
Lock the slide back and inspect the chamber and magazine well both visually and physically.
Practice with Dummy Rounds or Snap Caps: If you want to simulate the feel of chambering a round, use snap caps. Never use live ammunition. Using Snap Caps in the magazine to be exchanged it also provides the weighted feel to it
for a realistic training. Weighted Magazines can also be used in leu of for this purpose.
Initial Setup
Start with your pistol in your dominant hand, aimed at a safe target or point of focus (e.g., a small dot on a wall).
Insert an empty magazine into the pistol.
Performing the Drill
Simulate Shooting:
Begin with the pistol in a firing position. Dry-fire by pressing the trigger to simulate the last round fired.
The slide will not lock back during dry fire unless manually manipulated. For realism, rack the slide to lock it back, mimicking an empty gun.
Eject the Magazine:
Use your support hand to press the magazine release button and let the magazine drop free.
Place something on the ground such as a blanket to not damage the floor or magazine in your training area.
Get off The X:
Take this training opportunity to master every skill along the way. As the magazine is being stripped from the magwell step to your left or right getting off the "X" as you're reloading.
Grab the Spare Magazine:
Reach for your spare magazine. On a duty belt this would be from your number one mag pouch.
If you are training on reloading from concealed you should still have at minimum a single spare magazine holder on you and practicing the reload training from that.
Ensure a good proper grip with the front of the mag direction facing forward as you're about to insert it.
Insert the Magazine:
Seat the magazine firmly into the pistol’s magwell. Strike the base of the magazine with your palm to ensure it locks in place.
Rack the Slide:
Within your workplace, Use your support hand to rack the slide back quickly. This action chambers the first round (dummy or imaginary) and resets the firearm for dry fire.
Resume Firing Stance:
Return the pistol to a firing position, reacquire your target, and press the trigger to simulate resuming fire.
Tips for Success
Focus on Efficiency: Aim for smooth, deliberate movements rather than speed at first. Speed will come with repetition.
Consistency: Always retrieve magazines and rack the slide the same way to build muscle memory.
Target Transitions: Incorporate switching between targets after the reload to simulate real scenarios.
Use a Timer: Once confident, introduce a shot timer (downloadable on app store) to measure and improve your speed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Fumbling with the magazine—train on getting a consistent grip. Once you have it use the same way every time.
Not seating the magazine fully—ensure it clicks into place. Slap it in there. A full mag can be hard to seat/lock in place.
Slamming the slide forward manually—let the slide release do the work. Rack the slide to the rear and move your hand off of that slide. An optic can be helpful here to use to rack and remove your hand completely.
With regular practice, dry-fire reloads will enhance your confidence, proficiency and speed while handling your pistol.