Long-Range Pistol & Rifle Shooting for Beginners

Smith & Wesson pro shooter Jerry Miculek reveals the secrets (and surprises) of long-range shooting with handguns and rifles.

posted on October 13, 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. **

Did you know that long-range shooting isn't just for long guns? Although we tend to think of long-range shooting as the province of precision rifles, handguns can be extremely accurate out to distances that would surprise you. Who better to explain how that works than world-record-breaking pro shooter Jerry Miculek?

In this video from Smith & Wesson's GUNSMARTS series, Miculek describes and demonstrates the basics of long-range shooting for both handguns and rifles. As with all things shooting, having the right gun, ammo and optic combination is only the first step. Accuracy requires that you master three fundamentals of shooting: sight picture, trigger control and breath control. Of those three, which is the most important when you're trying to shoot for distance? Trigger control, insists Miculek, is the most critical.

However, even if you're still working on your trigger control, there are many simple tips to improve your distance accuracy right now. Even a new shooter can improve their long-distance game; let Miculek and GUNSMARTS show you how!

Latest

Rao Cool Heroes Review
Rao Cool Heroes Review

Cool Heroes for Boys: 20 True Tales of Adventure

As a "boy mom" to four, the reviewer elaborates on why this is a great book for young men—and even some women.

Motivation Matters: What’s Your Reason for Using Firearms?

Here is why you should find your personal reason to get out on the range and/or hunt.

NRA Win: En Banc Third Circuit Strikes Down New Jersey's "Assault Firearm" and "Large Capacity Magazine" Bans

The decision represents a long and hard-fought victory for the NRA, which has litigated the case alongside its state affiliate, the Association of New Jersey Rifle & Pistol Clubs, since 2018.

Summer Whitetail Scouting Tips

It’s soon time to start making your plans for the opening day of deer season. How?

The Armed Citizen® Reload July 17, 2026

A woman fled a bad situation—and was smart enough to bring a friend along, just in case.

3 Signs Your CCW Is Not Right For You

Are you carrying a concealed handgun that’s all wrong for you? Here are three signs that it might be time to try something else.

 

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.