LINE AND LEAD

Last month, in lesson two, we looked at mapping out the shot: planning where to hold the gun, where you plan to break the target, plus a lot more. In this month’s article we are going to look at the three most common techniques used to get from hold point to break point. In addition to this, we are going to learn about the importance of finding the ‘line’ of a target, through a drill I call ‘Boxing Targets’.

Before we dive in, it is important to recognise that there are several factors which dictate how and when you might choose a particular method. Perhaps most influential is personal preference. I will shoot the pull-away method on around 80% of targets, yet there are other champions out there who prefer either swing-through or maintained lead as their go-to technique. Any of these three methods can be used to great success.

That said, I would argue that whilst we all have our preferred way of doing things, it is vital that you not only understand each, but also know how to successfully implement all three techniques. I would not prescribe one single method for all of my students; there is no right or wrong default style to use. You will need, at some stage, to use them all whilst navigating your way