I followed up with questions on how their test shoots went. Those questions and results received from three of the participants with a minimum of editing for readability, are shown below.
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Questions Asked:
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A. Were you able to shoot fast, accurately, multiple times, and instinctively using the "Test" P&S Index Finger Rest?
B. Would you recommend that other police agencies test them?
C. Would you recommend that gun makers offer a frame or grip that incorporates a P&S Index Finger Rest?
D. Any general or specific comments?
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Response A:
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I have shot using the P&S method. I have had varied results.
I shot:
700 rounds using the method with my S&W 4506.
100 at 1 yard (quick draw/shoot from the hip)
100 at 3 yards double tap technique
100 at 5 yards 3 rounds in 5 seconds
100 at 7 yards 3 rounds in 5 seconds
100 at 10 yards
100 at 15 yards
100 at 25 yards
From 10 yards and under, I found that it was extremely accurate...and to be honest...how many gun fights will you get into at more than that?
At the 15 yard mark, I had trouble keeping the target, until I canted the weapon to the left (I'm a righty shooter)...gangster style...but not as much cant...maybe 45 degrees.
At the 25 yard mark, I had trouble hitting the target. I can see the potential for this technique, but I guess I must practice it at long range to become extremely accurate.
I think I would be a great idea to have this technique taught at the police academies and also have the gun manufacturers create a grip with the guide built in...but maybe not as wide off the grip. Maybe a 1/4 inch off the gun....just using it as support anyway.
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Response B:
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I find no difference either myself or by students between this training aid and using a frame characteristic. I tried glue-on dots {they are used as non-abrasive feet for calculators etc. and are 3/16" dia.} as a more acceptable, holsterable substitute. They are just as successful in untrained hands.
A. Were you able to shoot fast, accurately, multiple times, and instinctively using the "Test" P&S Index Finger Rest?
They [the students] could point shoot.
I cannot say I was but then I am an above average shot. I can put 5 shots from a .357 into 3" at 7 yds in 2 seconds.
B. Would you recommend that other police agencies test them?
As a training adjunct, why not.
C. Would you recommend that gun makers offer a frame or grip that incorporates a P&S Index Finger Rest?
No.
D. Any general or specific comments?
Point shooting is the sensible route to defensive use of a pistol at 5 yards or less. This is one way to teach point shooting. It is not a practical carry gun alternative.
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Response C:
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In regards to the T & E equipment - finger tray for using middle finger shooting style.
1. P&S finger rest not suitable for other than low ready or ready shooting positions. Speed and accuracy were less than anticipated. Most of the personnel shot faster and more accurately than with the P&S finger tray. Testing was done "king of the hill style" on reactive plates.
2. Manufacturers choice, I have no recommendations.
3. Negative, unnatural grip, would not benefit shooters with smaller hands or left handed shooters, all the bells and whistles on the left side. Definitely not cost effective.
4. Holsters would have to be altered, not cost effective, and if officer had to use opposite hand, eg., injury, it would impede his/her grip with weak hand, not tactically sound.
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Though some of the comments have a negative bent, they all indicate that the method does work for close quarters.
The data that is available show that most police combat situations occur in bad light when one may not be able to or will not be able to use the sights. P&S still can be used then as it does not rely on the sights.
P&S can enhance sight shooting as it allows one to acquire a target fast, automatically, and accurately.
Also, if one is in a situation where the use of their handgun may be needed, based on more data, it makes sense to have the gun unholstered.
And in homes where millions of handguns are, few walk around with their gun on their hip.
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