Target to Target: How to Master the Transition

The key to perfecting this skill is remembering that your eye leads the way.

posted on February 24, 2022
** 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. **

Have you ever wondered how competitive shooters seamlessly make the transition from target to target? While many hours of practice helps to improve their speed at this skill, they no doubt started out practicing slowly, the same way you should if you want to improve your performance—regardless of whether you aspire to be the next Julie Golob.

Transitioning your pistol from target to target sounds simple—and it is—if you remember to go slowly and properly apply your basic fundamentals of shooting.

The key to mastering this skill is remembering that your eye leads the way. In other words, after you’ve pressed the trigger on your first shot at a target, you must first look in the direction of where you want to place the next shot—an adjacent target, for example—before moving the sights of your pistol in that direction. It’s imperative to complete this move first, because if you’ve already looked at where you want pistol to go, you can direct it there. However, If you stay focused on the sights of pistol and try to drive the pistol from one point to the next, there’s a good chance you’ll pass the target and have to return, which could cost you about a half a second. For competitive shooters, this could mean the difference in their place at the podium.

To see this skill demonstrated, watch this latest Smith & Wesson GUNSMARTS video hosted by Ken of Provectus Group.

For more videos like this, visit Smith-Wesson.com.

Latest

Dsg Outerwear Faded Vintage Camo Lede
Dsg Outerwear Faded Vintage Camo Lede

DSG Outerwear Introduces New Ridge & Vale Lifestyle Collection

Featuring faded Realtree camo, the line is designed to blend authentic outdoor heritage with everyday comfort and style, suited for daily wear to outdoor adventures.

3 Carry-Gun Tips from a Seasoned Game Warden

Want to be as prepared to carry as the professionals? To start, follow these essential pieces of EDC advice.

Paper’s No Protection

If you have a restraining order against someone, you also need a gun and the proper training to use it. Paper won’t keep you safe.

 

Review: Henry H1 X Model .22 LR Lever-Action

This classic rimfire carbine has been updated with popular modern features

The Armed Citizen® Reload July 31, 2026

Buckle up! These women slammed their brakes on being attacked while driving.

Busting Outdoor Survival Myths

Some of these prevalent “tips” can actually make a survival situation much worse.

 

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.