MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

Which of the following describes a fundamental aspect of trigger control in marksmanship?

1. Using excessive force on the trigger

2. Maintaining a steady and controlled squeeze

3. Pulling the trigger as quickly as possible

4. Aiming without consideration of breath control

The correct answer is: Maintaining a steady and controlled squeeze

Maintaining a steady and controlled squeeze is essential to effective trigger control in marksmanship. This technique involves applying pressure to the trigger in a smooth and deliberate manner, rather than jerking or slapping the trigger. A steady squeeze helps to minimize any disruption in the shooter’s aim, allowing for greater precision and accuracy when the shot is fired. Effective trigger control contributes to consistent shot placement, as it ensures that the movement of the firearm remains as stable as possible throughout the shooting process. This aspect of marksmanship is crucial for both precision shooting and rapid-fire scenarios, where control can significantly impact performance. Other choices, while they may reflect common misconceptions, do not align with best practices in trigger control. Excessive force on the trigger can lead to unwanted movement of the firearm, negatively affecting accuracy. Pulling the trigger as quickly as possible disregards the importance of control and can result in a loss of aim. Similarly, aiming without considering breath control can introduce instability, as improper breathing techniques can cause the shooter to inadvertently move the firearm during the trigger squeeze.