SHOOTING POSITION
The position in pistol and revolver shooting is very important. In firing
a long series of shots, a man with an easy, natural position will suffer
much less fatigue, and will have a decided advantage over another whose
position is straining and uncomfortable. Formerly the approved position
was to stand with the right side toward the target. This required the head
to be turned ninety degrees from its natural position, and was very
uncomfortable. Undoubtedly this position is a relic of duelling days, when
it might have been argued that a smaller mark was offered to the
antagonist.
The positions adopted by the leading shots vary considerably. Most of them
face a trifle to the left of the target, with the right foot 6 or 8 inches
ahead of the left, and pointing directly toward the target, the weight of
the body supported equally by both legs and perfectly balanced. Others
shoot with the feet close together; some with one or both eyes open, and
with the arm partly or fully extended. The question of position depends
largely upon the physique and comfort of the individual.
Mr. Winans’ position is an exceedingly strong one. His poise is very good,
and he stands firmly on both feet. The left arm falls straight down along
the left side of the body. This affords rigidity when desired, and imparts
action to the figure.
Mr. Axtell has a stanch, natural position. Like Mr. Winans, he shoots with
the right arm fully extended, and he holds the weapon in the correct and
most approved manner.
The position of Mr. Anderton is excellent. He enjoys perfect health, and
has his large muscular development well under control. His position is
strong, natural, and comfortable.
Mr. Dietz’s position is entirely different from any of those preceding. It
is tenseless and flexible permitting him to shoot long series of shots
without fatigue.
The positions of Mr. Patridge and Sergeant Petty are characteristic and
typical of persons of entirely different physique.
Mr. Gorman and Dr. Sayre are men of similar physique. Their positions
which resemble each other closely are firm, easy and natural.
[Illustration: Fig. 64.--Walter Winans]
[Illustration: Fig. 65.--C. S. Axtell]
[Illustration: Fig. 66.--Thomas Anderton]
Mr. Lane’s position is natural and interestingly unconventional. He has
perfect poise and shoots without apparent fatigue.
Dr. Snook has a well poised and deliberate position. He shoots with his
arm not fully extended and with the feet close together.
The positions of Mr. Armstrong and Mr. Dolfen are very similar. They are
men of entirely different stature but almost identical in physique. Their
positions are firm and business-like. Both shoot with the arm fully
extended.
NOTE.--For photographs showing shooting positions of individuals
referred to in this chapter, see illustrations facing pp. 68, 72, 76,
and 78.