At GunDigest, we independently review products. However, we may earn a commission when you purchase through links on our site. Learn More
Video: Using Dry Fire to Analyze Trigger Pull
There is a lot to be said for dry firing, regardless if you are a rifle or pistol shooter.
The practice allows you to become intimate with your firearm. It forces full concentration of perfect sight picture and trigger control. And, after you have a firearm, it costs absolutely nothing to do.
In fact, I would be so bold as to say there are few things a shooter can do that will better hone their marksmanship than dry fire. And, when at the range, the practice can actually do a bit more than just train; it can also be used as a diagnostic tool.
As the above video from the National Shooting Sports Foundations shows, incorporating dry fire in with live can help identify shooting bugaboos. One of the quickest that will typically surface is flinch.
The one drawback of the drill shown in this video is the fact the shooter knows when they are going to dry fire. But, the element of surprise can be added with a small investment in some snap caps.
Loaded in with live rounds, the snap caps add an element of unknown in a string of shots. It truly forces shooters to concentrate on all the mechanics of breaking off a perfect shot. And if they don’t, well the herking and jerking of the shooter and gun provides instant feedback.
Outstanding Resources
Defensive Pistol Fundamentals
Gun Digest's Shooter's Guide to Concealed Carry
Joseph Terry Presents the ABC's of Concealed Carry
Why You Can Trust Gun Digest
Since 1944, Gun Digest has been a trusted authority on firearms, shooting and shooting gear, delivering expert firearms reviews backed by nearly a century of experience. We go beyond standard reviews, combining hands-on independent gun testing, in-depth research, and expert insights from industry professionals and manufacturers.
Our reviewers are the bedrock of our testing and come from a comprehensive cross section of the shooting world. Their diverse backgrounds include law enforcement professionals, military veterans, competitive shooters, seasoned hunters and life-long firearms enthusiasts. In addition to being firearm experts, we are also thorough journalists adhering to the strictest standards of the profession.
For our readers, this means objective, unbiased reviews, free from outside influence. Our priority is to provide the information you need to make informed decisions—whether a firearm or piece of gear is a must-have investment or one to pass on.
Find out more about our Editorial Standards and Evaluation Process