Accuracy Vs Precision

Switches vs. Timers

Before we discuss accuracy vs precision, we need to understand switches vs timers. 

Switches are going to be anything along the spine (represented by the black line in the image above). If I hit my target anywhere along that black line, the odds of that target continuing to remain a threat are very minimal due to its vital connection to the nervous system. Essentially they “switch off”. Hence the name switches. So this is the most ideal location when forced into a situation where you need to defend yourself.

Timers are going to be anything outside of that black line. Odds are if hit my target in the timer zone, there is a good chance the threat will remain persistent.

This brings us to accuracy vs precision.

Accuracy (represented in red) is if I hit in an ideal location such as anywhere in the switch zone. I can hit anywhere along that switch zone and that would be considered accuracy because that is where I need to hit my target in order to eliminate the threat.

Precision (represented in blue) is what we call “stacking rounds” and looks like what is represented in blue and purple. What is important though is that I am accurate. The more accurate I am, the sooner I eliminate the threat. So if I am hitting in the timers zone, but I am precise, well that doesn’t help us much. 

Our goal is to be accurate and precise (represented in purple). Accuracy and precision is obviously ideal. Sometime though, it is not very practical. Especially if we have other things to consider like innocent bi-standers, family, etc. We cannot get sucked into our sights and tunnel our vision because we need to be aware of everything around us. 

Establishing natural point of aim (NPOA) with our stance allows us to engage accurately without getting sucked into our sights. Allowing more awareness of the space around us and faster rounds on target. This is something we dive deep into during our pistol fundamentals class.