Core Concepts and Principles Flashcards

What should every shooter do immediately upon hearing the range command "Cease fire"?

Answer: Stop shooting immediately, take the finger off the trigger, and keep the muzzle downrange

Cease fire means stop firing at once and await further instructions, regardless of who calls it.

When gripping a semi-automatic pistol, which thumb placement creates an injury risk?

Answer: Either thumb positioned behind the slide

A thumb behind the slide can be struck as the slide recoils, causing slide bite.

What is natural point of aim?

Answer: The position where the body and handgun naturally point at the target without muscular effort

Adjusting the stance until the body naturally points at the target reduces muscle strain and drift.

Which storage practice best meets the core principle of preventing unauthorized access?

Answer: Storing the handgun unloaded in a locked container, with ammunition stored separately

Locked, unloaded storage with separate ammunition is the recommended practice for preventing unauthorized use.

A student plans to shoot at a target in an open field with a house a half mile beyond. Which safety principle is most relevant?

Answer: Be sure of your target and what is beyond it

A handgun bullet can travel more than a mile, so the backstop and area beyond must be safe.

A student calls a whole loaded round a "bullet." How should the instructor clarify the terminology?

Answer: The bullet is only the projectile; the complete round is a cartridge

A cartridge is the complete round, and the bullet is just the projectile that leaves the barrel.

A student's shots are consistently grouped low on the target. What is the most common cause?

Answer: Anticipating recoil and pushing the muzzle down

Flinching in anticipation of recoil drives the muzzle downward just before the shot breaks.