Anatomy of a Marksman (Part 3) – Sight Alignment vs Sight Picture: How to Aim a Pistol Correctly
Series: Anatomy of a Marksman: Sight Alignment vs Sight Picture: How to Aim a Pistol Correctly
Part 3 of 6
This article builds on the physical fundamentals by addressing visual fundamentals, including sight alignment, sight picture, and eye dominance.
Most Aiming Errors Are Visual Errors
Accurate shooters prioritize the sights — not the target.
Sight Alignment
The relationship of the sights to each other:
- Equal height
- Equal light
🔰 Front Sight Priority
With iron sights, visual focus belongs on the front sight.
Sight Alignment
A correct sight picture is crucial for accuracy. This diagram demonstrates the "equal height, equal light" concept, where the front sight is perfectly centered in the rear sight notch.
Sight Picture
Aligned sights placed on the intended point of impact.
Different pistols may require different holds.
Eye Dominance
The firearm should align with the dominant eye, not fight it.
⚠️ Common Error
Forcing the non-dominant eye to run the sights.
➡️ Read Part 4 → Sight Alignment vs Sight Picture: How to Aim a Pistol Correctly
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?
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