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Official Alaska Hunting Safety Course Link to Alaska Department of Fish & Game

Hello, hunter! Alaska's online hunting course has moved. Click here to go to the latest version of the Today's Hunter in Alaska course—the official hunting safety course of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

Go to the new Alaska course

The following course material is for reference only. Please go to the new course to complete your Alaska certification.

Handgun Shooting (continued)

Sight Alignment

Sight alignment, which is important in rifle shooting, is even more important in pistol shooting because of the shorter distance between the sights. Typically, handgun sights consist of a square rear notch sight and a heavy square front blade sight. This arrangement is easy to align.

Most handguns are initially sighted-in at 50 feet.

Aiming

At the shooting range, many handgunners use a sight picture that places the bull’s-eye on the top of the front sight, rather than placing it in the sights over the center of the target. However, hunters should hold the alignment directly over the vital area.

Scopes with long eye relief have become popular with handgunners and offer exact sighting for hunters. Scopes may take longer to align on a target than open sights, but they’re usually more accurate.

Two-hand handgun stance
Handgun Stance

Use eye and ear protection. Assume a stable position. Grip the handgun with both hands. Do not cross the thumb of the supporting hand behind the slide of a semi-automatic.

Shooting

The pistol shooting fundamentals of breath control, trigger squeeze, and follow through are almost identical to those in rifle shooting. Some important differences to remember include:

  • The first joint of the finger should take up trigger pressure, not the tip as is often done with rifles.
  • When a revolver is fired, powder flashing at the front of the cylinder can cause burns. Be sure to keep your fingers away from the front of the trigger area.
  • The slide and hammer of an autoloader can deliver a bruising blow when held too close to the body. All handguns should be fired at arm’s length.
Remember
  • Carry a handgun in a safe holster with a strap.
  • Draw a handgun only when you see game.
  • Cock your gun only when ready to shoot.
  • Keep your finger outside the trigger guard until ready to shoot.
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Official hunting safety course for Alaska hunters last modified: November 16, 2011
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