Anatomy of a Marksman (Part 1) – Pistol Marksmanship Fundamentals
Series:
Anatomy of a Marksman: Firearm Safety & the Fundamentals of Pistol Accuracy
Part 1 of 6
This is Part 1 of the Anatomy of a Marksman series, a practical guide to improving pistol accuracy through fundamentals, mindset, and mechanics.
Learn the four universal firearm safety rules and the seven fundamentals of pistol marksmanship to build accuracy safely and consistently.
Accuracy Starts Before the First Shot
Marksmanship is a process. A stable platform, clear sights, disciplined trigger control, and follow-through produce predictable results — but only when safety is automatic.
Safety is not separate from performance. When gun-handling habits are consistent and unconscious, mental bandwidth is freed for precision.
The Four Universal Firearm Safety Rules
These rules are absolute.
Always keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction.
A safe direction is one where an unintentional discharge would not cause injury and would result in minimal damage.
Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on target and you have decided to fire.
Index straight along the frame until the decision to shoot has been made.
Keep the firearm unloaded until ready for use.
Load only when the firearm is actively being used.
Know your target and what is beyond it.
You are responsible for every round fired.
🔰 Beginner Safety Check
Muzzle safe. Finger straight. Gun status known. Target confirmed.
The Seven Fundamentals of Pistol Marksmanship
Accuracy depends on all seven working together:
- Stance
- Grip
- Sight Alignment
- Sight Picture
- Breath Control
- Trigger Control
- Follow-Through
Weakness in one area degrades the entire system.
⚠️ Common Mistake
Attempting to fix accuracy by changing everything at once. Change one variable at a time.
Next:
➡️ Read Part 2 → How to Grip and Stance a Pistol for Accuracy and Recoil Control
Continue the Series
→ Read Part 1: Firearm Safety and the Fundamentals of Pistol Marksmanship
→ Read Part 2: How to Grip and Stance a Pistol for Accuracy and Recoil Control
→ Read Part 3: Sight Alignment vs Sight Picture
→ Read Part 4: Trigger Control Explained
→ Read Part 5: Practice Methods That Build Real Pistol Accuracy
→ Read Part 6: Defensive vs Competition Pistol Shooting
Ready to improve your accuracy?
Join a HARP Firearms Training & Defense class to get live coaching, drills, and range time. Click here to view courses.
Questions? Email office@harpftd.com
Disclaimer: The information provided by HARP Firearms Training & Defense (“HARP FTD”) is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice, tactical guidance, or an endorsement of any specific action. Firearm laws and self-defense statutes vary by jurisdiction and may change over time. Readers are strongly encouraged to consult applicable state and federal laws and seek professional legal counsel before relying on or acting upon any information contained in this post. Participation in any firearm-related activity carries inherent risks. Always follow all firearm safety rules, comply with local laws, and receive proper training from certified instructors. HARP FTD, its owners, instructors, and affiliates assume no liability for any loss, injury, or legal consequence arising from the use or misuse of the information provided herein.