Life is busy. Between work deadlines, training, and family time, it’s not always possible to get to the range — but that doesn’t mean your shooting skills have to suffer. In fact, some of the most dramatic improvements I’ve ever made in marksmanship didn’t happen on the range at all — they happened in my living room.
When I was training for the Olympics, I learned early on that consistency beats intensity. Sure, we had long training sessions, but those short, focused reps every single day built habits that held up under pressure. That lesson carried over into firearms training: you don’t need hours at the range every week — you need good reps, done often.
Why Dry Fire Works
Dry fire training (practicing with an unloaded firearm) helps you refine grip, sight alignment, and trigger press without the distraction of recoil. The beauty of it is you can do it anywhere, and for most of us with busy schedules, that’s a game-changer.
The 15-Minute Plan
Here’s my favorite routine — it’s realistic, safe, and only takes about as long as brewing your morning coffee.
1. Clear Your Firearm (2 min)
Triple-check your gun, magazine, and chamber — then remove all live ammo from the room. Set up a safe backstop (I use a bookshelf full of heavy books).
2. Warm-Up Reps (3 min)
- 5 slow, perfect draws from concealment.
- 5 sight picture reps — front sight crystal clear every time.
- 5 smooth trigger presses — watch for sight movement.
3. Core Drills (8 min)
- Draw to First Shot: Use a par timer. Goal: smooth first shot without rushing.
- Reloads: Practice emergency reloads using empty mags or dummies.
- Transitions: Place two targets on the wall. Move your eyes first, then your sights, then break the shot.
4. Cool Down (2 min)
Do one slow, perfect rep of each drill. Then visualize a flawless stage or self-defense scenario to lock in good habits.
My Personal Take
When I do this routine consistently, I notice faster draws, cleaner transitions, and smoother reloads when I finally do get back on the live range. It’s a confidence boost — and I love that I can fit it in even on my busiest days.
