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What is the 180° Transitions Drill?
Fast transitions require getting the eyes ahead of the handgun and onto target as soon as possible. Vision speed is critical for this and transitioning to targets you can’t see is a great way to improve vision speed.
This drill puts targets outside of the field of view, forcing shooters to move their eyes and head in front of the handgun, identify the target, lock the eyes on the center aiming point of the target, and get the sights to where the eyes are looking.
It’s simple, but quite effective at improving vision speed, transitions, and even the index.
Drill Setup
- 2 Targets at 7 yards on either side so the targets are 14 yards apart
- Start position: handgun loaded and holstered, wrists below belt, facing directly down range at the 90 degree point between the two targets
- 4 shots required per string, 8 shots total
For USPSA/IPSC/IDPA/etc competitors, try moving the targets slightly forward of the shooting box so they are slightly inside the 180.
Drill Steps
- At the beep, draw and engage the right target with two shots
- Transition to the left target and engage with two shots
- Reset for the next string
- At the beep, draw and engage the left target with two shots
- Transition to the right target and engage with two shots
Drill Modifications
Randomize the direction you’re facing at the start position. Somewhere in the direction towards the first target for an easier start, somewhere facing away from the target for a harder start.
Drill Tips
“Eyes, head, gun.” That’s my mantra when transitioning the gun. When you transition from right to left, the eyes should snap to the far left side while your head whips in that direction. As the head turns, the eyes will spot the target and lock onto the aiming point. The head will stop turning when it gets pointed directly at that target. The magic of this is that the gun will naturally follow the eyes with little to no conciliatory effort.
Drill Diagnostics
The eyes should get snapped onto the target way before the gun follows. If the eyes and pistol sights are getting to the target at about the same time, you’re not turning the eyes or head fast enough.
You should loose vision of the sights on this drill during the transition, if not completely lose sight of the gun. That is good. It means the eyes are way ahead of the gun. You should NOT have your eyes locked to the sights as you transition from target to target.
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Drill Environment
More Drill Modifications
Modifications to focus on: Conceal Carry
- Add walls to lean around - More info »
- Move through a door - More info »
- Start drills with something in your hand - More info »
- Start from a seated position - More info »
- Turn the lights out and use a flashlight - More info »
- Use a variety of your daily wear clothing - More info »
Further Training with:
Wide Transitions
Natural Point of Aim / Index, Vision Speed
