Kyle Defoor, an expert trainer for civilians and military in handgun and carbine shooting, shares gripping insights from his extensive experience. He delves into effective training strategies, advocating for separate sessions for pistols and rifles to enhance skills. The discussion highlights challenges of rifle handling in hot conditions, optimal equipment management, and the importance of muzzle devices in firearms. Kyle also emphasizes the crucial role of quality optics and proper reticle alignment for improving shooting accuracy, making this conversation a must-listen for shooting enthusiasts.
Kyle DeFoor advocates for dedicated training days focused solely on one firearm type to enhance skill depth and retention.
The 'doubles' technique is highlighted for improving shooting efficiency by allowing faster target engagement with consistent rhythm and accuracy.
DeFoor emphasizes the importance of a simple gear setup, promoting lightweight configurations and essential accessories for optimal shooting performance.
Deep dives
Kyle DeFoor’s Training Background and Approach
Kyle DeFoor is a full-time shooting instructor with extensive experience in training both civilians and military personnel in handgun and carbine shooting. He conducts approximately 30 classes annually, focusing solely on either pistol or rifle to ensure that students receive comprehensive instruction on a single platform. His classes do not mix different weapon types over short training periods, as he believes this approach compromises the depth of training on each individual firearm. Each training session emphasizes practical shooting techniques tailored to the specific needs and skills of the students, which include both novice and experienced shooters.
Shooting Techniques and Class Structure
DeFoor emphasizes a structured approach to skill development, advocating for dedicated days focused on one firearm type during his classes. For example, he prefers conducting two-day sessions either entirely on pistols or rifles to maximize engagement and learning. His methodology includes practical drills that prioritize movement and speed, frequently incorporating shooting at distances up to 200 yards to build proficiency in both close and long-range engagements. This meticulous class structure aims to enhance students' confidence and ability in real-world shooting scenarios, ensuring practical skills transfer beyond the range.
Innovative Training Methods Emphasized
One of the innovative training methods discussed is the 'doubles' technique, which allows for faster, effective shooting practice compared to traditional cadence drills. This method focuses on rapid trigger pulls while maintaining target focus, which helps shooters develop a more consistent shooting rhythm. DeFoor mentions that this approach has proven to significantly reduce training time while increasing the amount of valuable practice due to its efficiency. In his experience, students who practice this technique become proficient at firing multiple shots quickly and accurately, which is essential in real-life tactical scenarios.
Gear Setup and Optimal Equipment Choices
DeFoor stresses the importance of appropriate gear setup for effective shooting performance. He prefers simple setups devoid of excess attachments that could hinder movement or feel cumbersome during training. For rifles, he advocates for using lightweight configurations with essential accessories like tripods and adequate optics to facilitate stability and accuracy. He also highlights the benefits of shooting with a strong support grip while maintaining proper elbow positioning to ensure optimal control, demonstrating that simplicity in gear can lead to better shooting techniques and outcomes.
Insights on Modern Optics and Focal Planes
In discussing optics, DeFoor expresses his preference for second focal plane scopes over first focal planes for LPVO (low power variable optics) within certain ranges, arguing that most shooters don’t need the added complexity of first focal planes in these contexts. He highlights that a quality LPVO should have a daylight-bright reticle and solid construction to withstand training demands. DeFoor further mentions the consideration of reticle design, suggesting that a user-friendly reticle enables shooters to quickly engage targets without becoming lost in calculations during fast-paced situations. This focus on practical optics ensures that students are equipped with tools that enhance their shooting efficiency and effectiveness.
Kyle Defoor is very experienced with training civilians and the military in handgun and carbine shooting. We discuss shooting technique, gear setup, teaching and how he trains himself. I find Kyle very interesting, and I plan to have him back in the near future.
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