Training for United States Practical Shooting Association
How to improve your USPSA skills with structured practice
About USPSA
The largest action shooting organization in the US. Competitors engage targets while moving through stages, scored on time and accuracy. Divisions include Production, Carry Optics, Limited, Open, and more.
Why Use a Par Timer for USPSA?
In action pistol sports, speed and accuracy are equally critical. A par timer creates the same time pressure you'll face on the clock, helping you build the ability to perform under stress. Unlike a shot timer that only records what happened, a par timer challenges you to beat a specific time—pushing you to improve.
Training Plan for USPSA
1. Master Your Draw
Your draw is the foundation of every stage. A fast, consistent draw gives you a head start on every string of fire.
Practice these drills:
2. Build Reloading Speed
Fumbled reloads cost seconds. Drill your reloads until they're automatic—you shouldn't have to think about them during a stage.
Practice these drills:
3. Develop Target Transitions
Moving between targets efficiently is where many shooters lose time. Practice driving the gun aggressively while maintaining accuracy.
Practice these drills:
All USPSA Drills
Complete list of drills recommended for USPSA training:
Video
El Prez
Low ready facing away, Turn around, 2 shots on all (3) targets, Reload, 2 shots on all (3) targets
Video
Bill Drill
7 yards. 1 target. Draw and fire 6 shots. Should be able to cover all shots with a dollar bill. 3 second par for experienced shooter.
Video
Mozambique
Two shots to the chest, one to the head. Also called Failure to Stop. The classic defensive drill for stopping a determined threat.
Video
Double Mozambique
Two Mozambique drills back-to-back on separate targets. Tests target transitions and consistent shot placement under time pressure.
Video
Box Drill
Low ready, 2 to the chest on left target, 2 to the chest on right target, 1 to the head on right target, 1 to the head on left target
Video
Draw to First Shot
Pure draw speed from holster to first accurate hit. The foundational drill for concealed carry and competition shooters alike.
Video
Hammered Pair
Practice controlled pairs with two rapid shots on target. Essential drill for building recoil management and sight tracking skills.
Video
Fast Four
Low ready, 2 shots in the middle target, 1 shot in each outside target
Video
Zipper
Five shots in a vertical line from chest to head. Trains muzzle control and precise sight tracking while managing recoil.
Dry Fire Practice
Most top USPSA competitors dry fire far more than they live fire. Par Timer Pro is ideal for dry fire training—you get the same time pressure without spending ammunition.
Focus your dry fire on:
- Draw stroke consistency
- Reload mechanics
- Target transitions (use target stickers or marks on your wall)
- Trigger control at speed
Start Training Today
Download Par Timer Pro to access all 9 USPSA drills with built-in par times.
