Dances with Guns

Rhythm in shooting is the sequence of swing and mount grooved into our memory by a zillion repetitions and we develop it without ever knowing we're doing it. A good rhythm is a one piece move: The lead foot goes for the target, followed by the leading hand, followed by the trigger hand, swing, mount, and bang. It's a seamless move, every part connected without herks or jerks. From the ready position, swing, mount, and click the trigger as if taking a right to left crossing shot; swing the gun back down to the ready position and repeat with a left to right motion, all the while counting one-two-three.

"One" is the first move with your leading hand toward the target. "Two" is bringing the stock to touch your cheek and shoulder at the same instant. "Three" is pulling the trigger while the gun continues to swing past the target. The full sequence is one-two-three-and-one-two-three. "And" is where you return to the ready position. In short order you'll finding yourself swinging smoothly, purposefully, moving your hands and arms, and therefore the gun, in a steady, simple rhythm. Always begin tracking the target with your eyes and lead hand before the gun ever reaches your shoulder. If the gun is fit properly, you should not have to roll your shoulder into the stock or bring your face down to meet the stock. Stay upright, look at the target, and bring the gun up as described and it should be "right there". Any extra movement you need to make to fit yourself to the gun will not happen when you are in the field.