MARKSMANSHIP BASICS - Breathing

[Russ M]

i have not been doing this for long so don't take this as sold ture but for me i have been finding that a slightly out of focus on paper targets has made it easier for me to keep the retical on target it is just something to try
as far as breathing i have found that if you can stay calm, not get exited, and clear your mind of all else the slow deep breaths come more ezaly

[El Exorcisto]

Everyone gets out of breath upon exertion, even marathon runners, so physical fitness isn't necessarily a viable option. Standing upright helps because your diaphragm isn't compressed, thereby limiting tidal volume. Another method mainly used in patients with emphysema/COPD is to use "pursed lip breathing." This is when you exhale with your lips partially closed, adding back pressure in your lungs. This increases oxygenation from the lungs to blood. Sticking to these two things will get you back breathing normally sooner and allow you to control your breathing however you want when you take the shot.

[rarusmc]

Breathing:

A shooter wants to have as little muscle tension as possible when firing a weapon. Because of this a shooter must establish a natural point of aim and FIRE DURING THE NATURAL RESPITORY PAUSE. Holding your breath actually creates tension in your body that can easily vary from shot to shot...which will kill accuracy since repition is the key to consistent shooting. Also, your eyes will begin to lose focus after 10-12 seconds when holding your breath. remember to exhale completly so your body is completely relaxed.

So the 10-15 second time period when your eyes have enough oxygen to focus sharply after exhaling COMPLETELY is the best time to fire a shot. Remember to check your natural point of aim, relax your body to avoid muscle tension, and to focus on your sights to maintain a good sight picture. Do not forget to slowly pull your trigger to the rear...apply steady, constant pressure throughout your squeeze...avoid jerking your trigger or varrying the pressure/speed at which you depress your trigger.