Precision versus Accuracy

What a fun day - I went to an All Women's gun safety class. The day started as you would expect in a room of strangers (there were seven class members, three instructors, and a couple on lookers - club president and spouse). It did not take too long (like the first break), and we started getting to know a bit of each other's backgrounds. There was a night nurse (Sara Bush hospital), an EMT, a retired waitress, and two daughters of policemen. Most had brought their own hand guns.

The class began with the normal discussion of the types of handguns (there are two: revolvers and semi-automatics), what is ammunition (and what exactly is a bullet), and how to handle guns in a safe manner. When the topic of gun transport came up (it is in the NRA handbook), the class fell apart. The laws in Illinois were explored (with great animation), and then it was time for lunch.

Following our indoor time, we headed to the range for practice with a wide variety of hand guns. Everyone tried multiple types and calibers. We then each shot a target. Although I didn't hit the center, two of the instructors complemented me on my "grouping." One said that precision (i.e., being able to get most of the shots to land within a small area) was better than accuracy. Accuracy can be improved by re-sighting (i.e., gaining more experience). I was more than happy.

"Amendment II - A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." - US Bill of Rights (1789)