May 13, 2013

Beat the High Cost of Ammo and Shoot More
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Related Topics: Ammunition Competitive Shooting Defensive Tactics Firearm Accessories General Handgun Ammunition Holiday Gift Ideas Lasers Reloading Rifle Ammunition Shooting Techniques    

Ammunition is in short supply, but high demand these days. As soon as it is delivered at the loading ramp, the line starts forming in anticipation of when it will hit the shelves. The high demand has also caused prices to follow, but that doesn’t mean we can afford to let our hard-earned skills suffer as a result.

Laser Lyte Reaction Tyme unit

The Reaction Tyme Target offers a challenging and realistic target area measuring about 3×4 inches.

Recently, I came across a solution that will not only ease my ammunition demand, but it has taken my dry-fire practice to an entirely new level. LaserLyte has developed a new interactive target system with dual modes for reaction and training—the Reaction Tyme Target, TLB-RT. The laser training system comes with two targets for more realistic training scenarios. Each target works independently of each other providing you with a variety of scenarios from left-to-right or near-to-far shooting. You can position the units close together and far apart (three and seven yards for pistol and farther for long-gun scenarios).

Reaction Mode

The interactive Reaction Tyme works in two modes—reaction and training. The reaction mode features random LED signals in intervals of three to seven seconds that can be shot with any of the LaserLyte Trainers. When a hit is made the target celebrates with two audible beeps and a visible red LED flash. I use this mode for practice in drawing and firing a controlled, focused and accurate shot.

Training Mode

The training mode allows you to practice trigger control and accuracy with an always-on and ready-to-be-shot mode. The target reacts the same way as in Reaction Mode when a hit is made—you hear two audible two beeps and see the LED flash. Best of all, you can see the laser dot marking the hit. The dot lasts long enough to see the laser’s trace giving full feedback as to movement at the moment the gun would have fired with a live round. This is critical in developing a smooth, accurate trigger pull. I use this mode to hone my muscle memory and take the trigger pull from a jerky, conscious act to a smooth, repeatable action controlled by the subconscious mind. All the while in my mind I recite the mantra, slow is smooth; smooth is fast; fast is accurate and accurate is deadly.

 



 

The LaserLyte Reaction Tyme Target is ideally suited for both new and experienced shooters and aids in training for increased levels of confidence and skills—when and where it is most convenient and while saving money on ammunition. The twin targets provide an active training session that you can set-up in a variety of ways. Any of the LaserLyte Trainers work with the TLB-RT including the LT-PRO, LT-1 and the LaserLyte Trainer Cartridges in .223, .380, 9mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP.

LaserLyte offers a 3-year warranty for all products sold new, including products sold new up to three years ago.

LaserLyteTLB-RT Specifications

  • Works with any of the LaserLyte Trainers: LT-PRO, LT-223, LT-1, LT-380, LT-9, LT-40, and LT-45
  • Two Targets: With 2.5 inch diameter shooting ring
  • Batteries: 3 x AAA
  • Battery Life: 6,000 shots
  • Activation: LaserLyte Laser Trainer
  • Weight: 4.25 oz. / 119 gr.
  • Length: 1.30 inches / 33.43mm
  • Width: 3.00 inches / 75.96mm
  • Height: 3.74 inches / 95.00mm

Have you ever used a laser trainer? Let us know about your experiences or thoughts in the comment section.

 

Like this article? CLICK HERE to get stories like this, useful tips, and valuable resources every other weekend in your e-mail inbox.

The mission of Cheaper Than Dirt!’s blog, “The Shooter’s Log,” is to provide information—not opinions—to our customers and the shooting community. We want you, our readers, to be able to make informed decisions. The information provided here does not represent the views of Cheaper Than Dirt!

May 6, 2013

A New Breed of Concealed Carry — Versacarry Revolver
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Related Topics: Firearm Accessories Holsters Reviews Shooting Techniques    

I love the smell of leather. It is distinct, not really sweet, but pleasing, and reeks of manliness. I miss it, but not so much that I would give up the simplicity and minimalistic approach of a Versacarry holster.

Versacarry Revolver Holster

Versacarry holsters are a unique and innovative new way carry concealed.

Holster is almost a misnomer, because Versacarry is nothing like a traditional holster, it is the ultimate IWB (inside the waist band) carry system however. First off, there is only one side to the Versacarry. The clip goes over the belt, the gun and holster inside the waistband and the side of the gun rides against the body or undershirt.

The fact that the holster is one-sided is a problem for some because the exposed trigger guard. Properly inserted, I have never found this to be an issue. In fact, I have squatted, jumped, rolled, wrestled, readjusted and just about anything else I could think and never found it to be a problem.

Accidental discharges happen at two critical times. The primary period is when holstering or re-holstering the weapon. This is easily avoidable as long as you follow the instructions and attach your weapon to the holster before clipping it in your waistband. This is not a big deal because in a normal concealed-carry situation where you won’t be drawing and re-holstering your gun.

The second is during the draw. Keep your finger off the trigger; practice your dry fire drills, and do not be stupid by trying to be a quick draw artist. Always practice with the following mantra in mind. “Slow is smooth. Smooth is fast. Fast is lethal.” Each step in its own time and rhythm, but remember, it all starts with slow. Do not try to rush or skip the first step; it will come in time.

Versacarry revolver holster in three different configurations

Versacarry has recently introduced designs for revolvers.

Plan B – Carry a Wheel Gun!

Similar to models for semi-autos, the new Versacarry Revolver holsters are sized for caliber and for length. The pistol is held to the holster via the spring action of the plastic and metal retention rod that inserts into the barrel. The attachment is solid. The rod is made slightly smaller (0.015″) than the pistol’s barrel diameter for a good fit. After the first few times the gun is drawn, the fit becomes perfect; the rod is long enough to ensure the pistol remains secure.

Beyond the ability to use one holster for a host of different guns, the Versacarry allows the gun to be carried deep or more shallowly, depending on model and how you need your gun to ride your belt line. The new design also encapsulates both sides to the trigger guard eliminating the aforementioned concerns.

The Versacarry is one of the most innovative pistol concealed carrying devices available. It weighs next to nothing, is strong, easy to attach, and offers one of the smoothest draws I have ever experienced. The Versacarry also offers a no questions asked replacement policy that is hard to beat.

Most of us have a number of holsters in our carry ‘wardrobe.’ Many are likely discarded in a box or forgotten drawer. We also have the A-list drawer—specific models for specific guns or occasions. The old friend—proven and trusted above all others. The Versacarry looks so simple you want to hate it, but works so great you’ll fall in love with it. No, it’s not my exclusive concealed-carry holster solution, but it is my day-to-day preference.

 

Like this article? CLICK HERE to get stories like this, useful tips, and valuable resources every other weekend in your e-mail inbox.

The mission of Cheaper Than Dirt!’s blog, “The Shooter’s Log,” is to provide information—not opinions—to our customers and the shooting community. We want you, our readers, to be able to make informed decisions. The information provided here does not represent the views of Cheaper Than Dirt!

May 5, 2013

Handgun Basics 101: Get a Good Grip
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Related Topics: Basics 101 Handguns How To Shooting Techniques    

When I first started shooting handguns, I had issues gripping my handgun correctly. The grip refers to how you hold the gun. A proper grip will help absorb recoil, provide shots that are more accurate and is safe. Gripping a gun properly can feel unnatural if you have never shot before. It can feel really unnatural if you have been shooting with an improper grip. Your instinctive grip might be unsafe, especially on a semi-automatic pistol. Every time you pull the trigger to shoot a semi-auto, the slide moves back. If your thumbs are in the way, there is a possibility of the slide hitting them.

To grip the gun, first find your strong side and dominant eye. I am right-handed, but more importantly, my dominant eye is my right eye. My strong side is my right hand. Take your dominant hand and form an L shape with your thumb extended away from your fingers.

Bring the gun into the web of your palm. Hold the gun high up into your palm so that the bottom of the slide and the top of the backstrap rests on the top of the squishy part. Minus your thumb and index finger, wrap the rest of your fingers around the grip of the pistol.

Take your index finger and point it straight out and rest it above the trigger guard on the frame of the gun. Your thumb rests under the slide on the opposite side of the gun, pointing toward the target. If your gun has a thumb safety, your thumb should be in close proximity so that you may flip it off and on without much movement of either hand.

With your weak-side, in my case this is my left hand, bring it up around the hand already gripping the gun. Place your index finger under the trigger guard, on top of your strong-side middle finger. The trigger guard should rest between the first and second joint of your weak-side index finger. Your weak-side thumb should rest on top of the strong-side thumb in the exact same position. Both thumbs are pointing forward facing the target and down away from the slide.

Now that you have the gun firmly in both hands, you will want to create a push-pull to absorb recoil when you take the shot. Push forward on the gun with your strong hand and pull back with your weak-side hand.


To grip the gun, first find your strong side hand.
Take your dominant hand and form an L shape with the thumb extended away from your fingers.
Bring the gun into the web of your palm.
Your weak-side thumb should rest on top of the strong-side thumb in the exact same position.
Minus your thumb and index finger, wrap the rest of your fingers around the grip of the pistol.
The trigger guard should rest between the first and second joint of your weak-side index finger.
If your gun has a thumb safety, your thumb should be in close proximity so that you may flip it off and on without much movement of either hand.
There are alternative ways you can hold your thumbs—pointed slightly down, locked together, and up and out of the way from the gun’s frame.
Now that you have the gun firmly in both hands, you will want to create a push-pull to absorb recoil when you take the shot.

There are alternative ways you can hold your thumbs—pointed slightly down, locked together, and up and out-of-the-way from the gun’s frame. However, most of us at Cheaper Than Dirt! grip it with our thumbs forward. For me, this grip feels more natural, my focus is forward on my target, my thumbs are safely out-of-the-way of the moving slide, and I can also manipulate the gun’s controls quickly and easily from this position.

You can solve many accuracy problems by correcting your grip. Though, not a definitive answer to all issues, Cheaper Than Dirt! has free, downloadable diagnostic targets that may help you identify your shortcomings.

If you have a revolver, your grip will differ from a semi-automatic handgun. To learn how to safely grip a revolver, read the post Get a Grip and Don’t Lose Your Thumb! How to Correctly Grip Your Revolver.

If you are a beginner shooter or a brand-new gun owner and missed the following basic how-to articles, you can find them here:

 

Like this article? CLICK HERE to get stories like this, useful tips, and valuable resources every other weekend in your e-mail inbox.

The mission of Cheaper Than Dirt!’s blog, “The Shooter’s Log,” is to provide information—not opinions—to our customers and the shooting community. We want you, our readers, to be able to make informed decisions. The information provided here does not represent the views of Cheaper Than Dirt!

May 3, 2013

Wicked Quick: AR-15 Shoot Fast! With Jerry Miculek
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Related Topics: 3-Gun AR-15 Competitive Shooting Firearms General Rifles Shooting Techniques    

 

 

In this episode of the new Shoot Fast! series, CTD Team Shooter Jerry Miculek takes the ever-popular AR-15 out to the range to see just how fast he can shoot it.

At the front of the 38:03 video, Jerry talks about the development of the rifle, its wartime use, and cartridge design and variations.

At 3:30 in, he describes the M4 variation of the rifle.

At 4:45, he describes his personal competition rifle, a Smith & Wesson Performance Center PC-15.

At 6:15, he covers the Smith & Wesson M&P15-22.

At 10:00, he talks about the evolution of ammunition leading up to the 5.56mm NATO round.

At 17:30, he goes out to the range and tries to shoot five rounds in under a second. But because he’s a “revolver jockey,” he actually shoots six rounds.

At 20:00, he shoots a .96-second five-shot one-target run.

At 22:45, he tries to shoot three shots in one part of the target and two shots in another part in under a second. The run comes in at .98 seconds.

At 25:15, he shoots an 18-round, nine-target V-drill sequence with a POV camera. He completes the drill in 3.29 seconds.

At 29:30, he shoots the M&P15-22 on steel.

At 31:30, he shoots steel at 50 yards with his PC-15. (Note the safety warning about shooting steel targets.)

At 32:30, he takes on five frozen bottles of cheap diet drink.

At 34:00, it’s melons versus man.

At 35:15, Jerry takes on cans of corn and shaving cream. “5.56 versus can of corn, corn loses every time.”

 

Like this article? CLICK HERE to get stories like this, useful tips, and valuable resources every other weekend in your e-mail inbox.

The mission of Cheaper Than Dirt!’s blog, “The Shooter’s Log,” is to provide information—not opinions—to our customers and the shooting community. We want you, our readers, to be able to make informed decisions. The information provided here does not represent the views of Cheaper Than Dirt!

April 29, 2013

Shoot Fast! with Jerry Miculek
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Related Topics: 1911 Competitive Shooting General Pistols Shooting Techniques    

Episode 4: The 1911 Pistol

In this video episode, Jerry Miculek is at it again, this time with a variety of 1911 pistols. Just how fast is Jerry? Watch this video and see for yourself.

Shoot Fast! is a new series by Miculek.com in which Jerry takes a new gun out to the range in each episode to see how fast he can shoot it! How fast can you shoot? Tell us in the comment section.

 

Like this article? CLICK HERE to get stories like this, useful tips, and valuable resources every other weekend in your e-mail inbox.

The mission of Cheaper Than Dirt!’s blog, “The Shooter’s Log,” is to provide information—not opinions—to our customers and the shooting community. We want you, our readers, to be able to make informed decisions. The information provided here does not represent the views of Cheaper Than Dirt!
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