In speed-shooting sports, it’s very important to note that your aiming point, or your start position, will be pointed at a place in front of the firing line on the ground. That’s going to simulate a low-ready position.

First, you’ll want to grip the firearm, and then extend your arms out to that aiming point with your finger straight, off of the trigger, outside of the trigger guard.

That is going to put you in a start position so the range officer will know you are ready.

Now, the critical component in this position is to make sure you are moving that trigger finger safely when your aim is on target. When this movement becomes fluid and natural to you, then you are ready to take the next step and push the speed.

The first place to pick up speed is actually in your line of sight. Instead of staring down at that aiming spot, you actually want to look directly at the target.

Staring down will slow you down, because you are going to have to drag the sights up and down, but if you are looking at your target, you can bring things up very quickly.

Now, that you understand where to place your finger in the low-ready position, and how to focus on the target instead of the aiming point, let's talk about the buzzer.

Timers come in all shapes and sizes. The length of buzzer and the sound of the tone can be different and this is where it is perfectly O.K. to ask that range officer for a test buzzer, so you have an idea of what that buzzer is going to sound like.

The important thing to remember is to listen for the first tone of the buzzer - not let the whole buzzer drag out because that extended tone is valuable time you could be losing.

In this sport, speed is the name of the game. So you want to pay attention to that low-ready position, have your sights on the target, and listen to the buzzer. All of that will help you with your first shot, which will ultimately set the foundation for a fast run. Until next time, be safe and have fun.  

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