15 - 25 - 50 yds. Mini ADAP steel plate.

How do I determine my speed of fire at intermediate to far distances when urgency and accountability are needed? I base it on what I see. I don't base speed of fire on what I hear.

• Are you relying on a mental count to establish and maintain a rhythm?

• Are you making a decision to shoot “fast” just because a target is close?

• Do you slow down and "aim harder" at farther targets?

None of these strategies is consistent or repeatable. In this context, “fast” and “slow” lack definition. How are you measuring “fast” and “slow?” What dictates the rhythm you choose for a target? Speed of fire should be dictated first, by a strong foundation built on a fast and efficient draw, durable grip and consistent index, which then allows you to focus on processing the visual cues from your sights needed to shoot at YOUR max speed, based on your individual skill set. It’s consistent, repeatable and allows for full accountability.

Here are some factors I focus on in training:

1. Efficiency. A fast draw speed is the byproduct of efficiency of movement, from getting the gun out of the holster, building your grip, to bringing the gun up to your eye target line. Fast hand speed is necessary but not the only factor. Regardless of target distance or risk, the gun comes out of the holster and comes up on target at the same speed. The only variable is your first shot on target, when you may need more or less confirmation from your sights, based on your target.

2. Consistent index. An index rooted in visual discipline — picking a small focal point — and grip pressure that results in predictable behavior of the gun, maximizes and capitalizes on that speed and efficiency so the first shot is fired sooner. Your draw and index in that string of fire is the foundation for every round that follows.

3. Visual cues. When and how aggressively you press the trigger are a result of the gun behaving predictability and returning to your focal point and your ability to process visual cues — flash of red, bouncing or stopped stable dot —and ability to understand what you need to see based on your skill level to get accurate hits on target.