The AR-15 is a popular semi-automatic rifle for self-defense, hunting, and target shooting. However, even experienced shooters can make mistakes when handling this versatile firearm. Let’s discuss some common AR-15 shooting mistakes and provide tips on how to avoid them, ensuring you get the most out of your shooting experience.
How To: Avoiding Common Shooting Mistakes
Let’s go over several key aspects of AR-15 shooting, including stance, grip, trigger control, sight alignment, cheek weld, recoil management, and maintenance. By addressing these issues and applying the following tips, you can enhance your shooting skills and ultimately become a more accurate and effective marksman with your AR-15.
Poor Stance and Body Position
A stable shooting stance and proper body position are essential for accurate shooting. Some shooters tend to lean back or adopt an awkward stance, leading to inconsistent shots and poor balance.
To avoid this mistake, adopt a comfortable, athletic stance with your feet shoulder-width apart and slightly bent knees. Lean forward slightly, placing your weight on the balls of your feet. This position will help you maintain balance and manage recoil effectively.
Incorrect Grip
An improper grip on the AR-15 can affect accuracy and control. Some shooters hold the rifle too tightly or place their hands in an awkward position, which can lead to fatigue and reduced accuracy.
To ensure a proper grip, place your support hand on the handguard, with your thumb pointing forward. Your shooting hand should grasp the pistol grip firmly but not too tightly, with your trigger finger resting on the lower part of the trigger.
Inadequate Trigger Control
Jerking or slapping the trigger can cause the rifle to move during firing, resulting in missed shots. Smooth, consistent trigger control is essential for accurate shooting.
To improve your trigger control, practice squeezing the trigger slowly and steadily, maintaining constant pressure until the shot breaks. Dry fire practice can also help you develop good trigger control habits without expending live ammunition.
Poor Sight Alignment
Misaligned sights can lead to inaccurate shots. Many shooters do not take the time to properly align the front and rear sights, resulting in missed targets.
Ensure your sights are correctly aligned before taking a shot. Focus on the front sight, keeping it clear and centered within the rear sight aperture. The target should be slightly blurry in the background.
Inconsistent Cheek Weld
An inconsistent cheek weld can cause your line of sight to vary, resulting in inaccurate shooting. Many shooters do not maintain the same cheek-to-stock contact for every shot, leading to inconsistencies in their shooting performance.
To avoid this mistake, practice establishing a consistent cheek weld each time you shoulder your rifle. Find a comfortable, repeatable position that allows you to maintain a clear sight picture.
Failure to Manage Recoil
Inadequate recoil management can make follow-up shots more difficult and reduce overall shooting accuracy. Some shooters do not anticipate or manage the recoil effectively, leading to uncontrolled muzzle rise.
To manage recoil, ensure you have a proper grip and stance, as discussed earlier. Additionally, focus on maintaining consistent pressure on the rifle with your support hand and pulling the stock firmly into your shoulder.
Neglecting Maintenance
A poorly maintained AR-15 can lead to malfunctions and decreased accuracy. Some shooters neglect to clean and lubricate their rifles regularly, which can cause issues during shooting.
Keep your AR-15 well-maintained by cleaning and lubricating it regularly. Pay particular attention to the bolt carrier group and chamber, as these areas are prone to fouling and wear.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding common AR-15 shooting mistakes can help you become a more accurate and proficient shooter. By paying attention to your stance, grip, trigger control, sight alignment, cheek weld, recoil management, and maintenance, you’ll be well on your way to improving your shooting performance. Remember, practice makes perfect, so spend time at the range refining your skills and applying these tips. Your accuracy and confidence will grow with time and experience.