Why Keeping Both Eyes Open While Shooting Benefits Your Performance

As a professional shooter or a passionate enthusiast, the importance of maintaining a certain technique during the shooting process cannot be overstated. One of the notable techniques is keeping both eyes open, especially for long-range shooting. This article delves into the reasons why this practice is beneficial and how it can enhance your overall shooting experience.

Reducing Muscle Fatigue and Distraction

One of the primary reasons for keeping both eyes open is to reduce muscle fatigue and distraction. When shooting long ranges, especially with high-powered optics, maintaining an unnatural position for an extended period can lead to significant muscle strain. Keeping both eyes open eliminates the need to constantly switch between an open and closed eye, thus reducing the strain on your facial muscles. Several studies have shown that prolonged use of one eye, such as closing the non-dominant eye, can lead to neurological imbalances and discomfort.

Enhancing Situational Awareness

Keeping both eyes open also significantly enhances your situational awareness. While your main focus might be on the target through the scope, your brain's peripheral vision provides critical information. Movements in your non-dominant eye can alert you to potential hazards or changes in the environment. For example, if someone walks downrange without a call, you can be more aware of it if your peripheral vision is active. This heightened awareness can be crucial in competitive shooting or in the military.

Improving Comfort and Natural Position

Another advantage of keeping both eyes open is that it feels more natural and is often more comfortable. Many shooters have naturally developed this habit over years of practice, and it becomes a second nature. This comfort can lead to better focus and concentration, as your body is in a more relaxed state. Some shooters even report that keeping both eyes open can help them maintain a more stable position, which can be especially beneficial when attempting to hit precise targets.

Techniques for Maintaining Both Eyes Open

While keeping both eyes open is a natural and beneficial practice, there are specific techniques that can help perfect this technique for long-range shooting:

Lens Participation: Adjust the focus on the scope's eyepiece to ensure that both eyes contribute equally to the view. This can help both eyes to work in tandem, making the experience more comfortable and effective. Facial Relaxation: Practice facial exercises to minimize tension in the eye sockets and around the openings of your eyes. This reduces the strain experienced during long periods of shooting. Eye Coordination: Regular practice can help enhance the coordination between both eyes. This includes exercises that focus on tracking moving objects and maintaining clear vision with both eyes simultaneously. Positioning: Proper shooting position is crucial. Sitting or standing with a stable base can help distribute the strain more evenly and reduce potential muscular issues.

Conclusion

Keeping both eyes open while shooting, particularly for long-range shooting, is a technique that offers numerous benefits. From reducing muscle fatigue and enhancing situational awareness to improving comfort and natural position, this technique is a valuable addition to any shooter’s arsenal. By adopting and refining this practice, one can significantly enhance their shooting performance and rely on their skills in varied and challenging situations.

So, the next time you pick up your rifle or handgun for a long-range shooting session, consider keeping both eyes open. Your safety, comfort, and performance will thank you.