How to Practice Shooting Using a Cover

In this week’s NRA Firearm Training Tip we are going to demonstrate use of cover. Cover is any barrier that has the ability to stop an incoming bullet. For the purpose of this drill a Bianchi style barricade was used to simulate cover. There are a few things that one should know about the use of cover.

1. You always want to be at least an arm’s length away from cover. This allows you to see and move effectively around the cover.
2. When you present the gun acquire your sights before rolling the gun out. This helps minimize the time that you are exposed to the threat.
3. Bend at the waist so that the lower body stays behind cover.
4. Always alternate where you come out from cover so that your position is not predictable.

Here is the setup for the drill:

• Setup a makeshift wall. This can be a barricade, a sheet of cardboard or anything else that simulates a vertical wall.
• Place a target at 7 yards.
• From the holster or from a low ready bring the gun up and find your sights.
• Roll out and fire three shots from one side of the wall.
• Find another position and fire another three shots.
• Repeat using multiple positions.

NOTE: Always follow the NRA Rules for Gun Safety and be sure to abide by your range’s rules.