Dry Practice Saves Shooting Expertise, Ammo, Rainy Days

This episode of Smith & Wesson's GUNSMARTS explains why dry-fire training is for everyone, every day.

posted on September 7, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

Yes, even Smith & Wesson's pro shooter and brand ambassador Julie Golob is feeling the sting of our current ammunition shortage. You've no doubt heard dry practice—also known as dry-fire training—touted as a safe and inexpensive way to exercise your gun-handling skills without ammo. That's absolutely true, but dry practice (done right) can do a lot more than get you through "ammogeddon." 

As Golob explains in this GUNSMARTS video, dry-firing your handgun is excellent practice for both new and experienced shooters. For beginners, the beauty of dry practice is that it gives you a safe way to explore how to move with an unholstered and uncased handgun on the range.

For slightly more advanced shooters, it allows the opportunity to iron out a flinch or to work on the fine points of trigger squeeze. Experienced shooters can use dry practice to run movement drills safely in their home. (Just remember to observe all of the rules of gun safety ... no exceptions and no excuses!)

Yes, there's some truth in advertising: Dry-fire training can even save a rainy day. After all, the weather's always perfect when your home is your "range"! 

Latest

Women For Gun Rights Dc Rally
Women For Gun Rights Dc Rally

Women for Gun Rights Descends on Washington D.C.

The event brought in delegates representing more than 40 states to the nation’s capital to speak up for the Second Amendment and ensure that lawmakers heard directly from America's fastest-growing group of gun owners.

9 Tips for Shooting in Bad Weather

Snow, rain and extreme temperatures can present a few challenges for your firearm.

Single-Stack 1911 10 mm Auto Pistols: Ideal Big-Bore Trail Guns?

Polymer pistols may be all the rage, but the venerable 1911 still has a lot to offer 10 mm cartridge fans.

Are Brush-Busting Bullets Legit?

Do some bullets really shoot better through brush, and should you ever take a shot through brush?

New Guns 2025: Bond Arms Rowdy XL Flag Package

This specially designed firearm package is a testament to the company's enduring commitment to honor the United States.

The Armed Citizen® June 27, 2025

A woman was injured but is alive after she exchanged gunfire with a home intruder.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.