Q: How can I learn to take shots more quickly, when required?
Q: How can I learn to take shots more quickly, when required?
ANDREW VENABLES replies: Have more fun with your rifle! Don’t just chase tiny groups from a shooting bench – start shooting from all the positions you actually use when hunting.
Use reactive targets, clay pigeons on a safe bank, paper plates pinned to a short stick, and steel gongs or empty milk cartons full of water. If you don’t get the required result with the first shot, reload and try again.
Ranges of 40m or more are recommended, and ensure the ground behind the targets is stone-free and steeply banked to avoid splash back and risk of ricochet.
The .17 HMR is great for this kind of practice as the bullets are fast and frangible, and the rifles light and handy. Whatever you use, be safe, have fun and invite friends along to compete and film the results.