In the “Dynamic Carbine High Performance Fundamentals” course series at Shootingpark Leobersdorf, Martin Thaler teaches what is important when handling a semi-automatic rifle – regardless of whether you are an IPSC, 3-gun, defense shooter or other shooter. You can find out how Martin manages this balancing act and what you learn in his courses in Ranger Magazine, made by Militär Aktuell.
After attending Module 1 (-> Click here for the report with all the details) it was clear: Martin Thaler can get everyone on board, regardless of their sporting goals with the semi-automatic. So it was time for module 2 with renewed motivation.
Module 1 and Module 2 should be understood as a pair that should not be separated. In both modules, the two main objectives are to get a feel for the stable stance and to become aware of decisive factors for recoil control. Module 2 builds on the knowledge previously imparted – and hopefully consolidated in dry practice and live firing – and goes one better: Now the correct trigger control is added and shooting is carried out at distances of up to 50 meters in the standing position.
Repetition and consolidation
As in all modules, Martin begins with a repetition of the course content, using familiar drills to show you in particular how well you have remembered what you have learned so far and what you need to pay particular attention to in the next few lessons. With a course lasting over three hours per module, it pays to use your time consciously so that your muscle memory is properly trained over the long duration. Every shot is valuable.
Once again, it becomes clear that it is the minimal changes in muscle tension and position that show big differences in the target area, even at short distances. Paying attention to the center of gravity, leaning more into the gun, bringing the gun deeper into the chest … these and similar tips make all the difference in the end. The great thing about Martin’s courses is that you immediately see the effects of the changes yourself and are encouraged to experiment with different approaches.
Factors of repetition accuracy and gaze technique
The semi-automatic should be properly wedged in the body while the trigger is pulled in a relaxed and controlled manner. What may sound contradictory on paper is actually feasible with just a few learning steps and, above all, can be repeated constantly. Understanding the role of the shoulder and the placement of the weapon in the chest are essential. No less important is the sighting technique and target acquisition. Do you unintentionally follow the red dot in your scope or do you stay focused on the target? What mental tricks can you use to “anchor” yourself in the target? Martin knows how to get course participants to focus on the right elements of shooting.
Brain acrobatics and shooting yoga
Sometimes the rifle is pulled back “like a rope” or the target is pierced with the eyes “like when firing a guided missile” – even after the shot has been fired. Sounds strange? Maybe, but it works. At some point, you become so deeply connected to the weapon that it can actually be wielded like a part of your body. It becomes almost meditative, despite the rapid succession of shots. The recoil is no longer perceived at all, the body hardly moves at all when the shot is fired. It’s unbelievable what is possible after such a short time!
“Repeatability is the mother of precision.” – A guiding principle from Martin that first needs to be digested. From the very first module, you learn which elements lead to a precise shot with “repeat accuracy”. Only concentration and learned movement patterns prevent you from being successful. The trick is to make every shot consciously and at the same time train your muscle memory so that you no longer have to think about everything.
Clean trigger
Step by step, we work our way through the secrets of concentrated shooting. Everyone at the pistol range knows how important a clean trigger pull is. It’s no different with the semi-automatic. Martin brings the learning content together coherently. “Pulling the trigger doesn’t stop the sighting”, he reminds us gently but firmly, always keeping in mind what we have learned so far.
Ranger conclusion
You can imagine: This course is demanding, but not overwhelming. You learn, as in Module 1to experience for yourself what the one or other change in position, shooting stance, trigger and ultimately also concentration and mental focus can do. The anticipation for module 3 is correspondingly great.
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After well over three hours and – it felt like – quite a few shots, the astonishment: in the digital shooting log of the High Ready App I only enter 167 shots from the Steyr AUG. It’s unbelievable how much you can learn about shooting without having to teach one magazine after another. Particularly helpful: the magazine coupler for the AUG and the new magazine dummies from MK Unit have also proven themselves in Module 2. The grip is so full that you can concentrate on the essentials when shooting. A good combination.
