Quick Answer
To improve your follow-up shot speed with a .308, focus on quick reloads, practice dry firing, and develop a consistent shooting stance. This will help you quickly recover from a missed shot and fire a second shot at the animal.
Developing Quick Reloads
When it comes to follow-up shots, speed is crucial. One of the best ways to improve your reload speed is to practice dry firing with an empty magazine. This allows you to develop muscle memory and get a feel for how quickly you can insert a new magazine and chamber a round. Aim to reload in under 5 seconds, and practice this motion until it becomes second nature. For a .308, you’re looking at a 3.5 to 4.5 second reload time, depending on how quickly you can get the new magazine in place.
Stance and Positioning
A consistent shooting stance is also essential for quick follow-up shots. Practice standing, kneeling, and sitting in different positions to develop muscle memory and improve your balance. When in a prone position, try to keep your left elbow (for right-handed shooters) at a 90-degree angle, with your left hand supporting the rifle. This will help you maintain a consistent aim and quickly recover from a missed shot.
Dry Firing and Live Fire Practice
Dry firing and live fire practice are essential for developing your skills. Start by dry firing with an empty magazine, focusing on quick reloads and consistent aim. Once you feel comfortable with the dry firing drill, move on to live fire practice. Start with slow, deliberate shots and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable. Practice shooting in different positions, and focus on quickly recovering from missed shots. For elk hunting, aim to fire a second shot within 10-15 seconds of the initial shot, with a minimum of 2.5 seconds between shots.
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