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Tension - is it necessary
Posted: Wed Apr 06, 2005 2:13 pm
by Guest
During a standing, where do you draw the line between relaxing and relaxing too much. I have read that you are supposed to use some tension! Someone even said use a little tension in you stomach to slow down the sights. Any suggestions?
Thanks!!
Raj
Posted: Fri Apr 08, 2005 7:47 am
by Raj
I am not sure which sport you are refering to. I shoot 10M Air Standing, so my opinion is with regard to that.
It is necessary to have some tension to hold the position - tension in your left thigh, stomach and back. This is to counter-balance the weight of the rifle and staying in equilibrium.
What you absolutly do not want is tension in the arms - both support and trigger arms, neck and shoulder - you would find this tension only when your zero point is incorrect and when you are off the equilibrium. These are called 'corrective tensions' which would hurt you during the shot release stage - as soon as you squeeze the trigger, these tensions cease to exist and you will score different, even though you released the trigger at the proper sight picture.
So, before you mount the rifle, place your feet in a position that there is no tension in both your feet. As soon as you mount the rifle and before you place your head on the check piece, and elbow on your hip, feel if there is tension in your supporting arm, shoulder, and wrist. Now twist the upper body (not the hips) towards the target and place the elbow on your hip - check if there is tension in your shoulder, support arm, wrist and hip. Next, place your head on the cheekpiece and check if you have tension in your head. Take corrective measures to get rid of all the tensions other than that of your left thigh (if you are a right handed shooter), stomach and back - you should do this with proper breathing - without oxygen, your muscles tension naturally.
Finally, when you are holding and aiming, make sure there is no tension on your trigger hand wrist and trigger finger and squeeze the trigger.
Slowing down the sights can only be achieved through zero point correction, concentration and balance. Good shooting!
Raj