A Green Beret Shows You How to Shoot a Pistol...in 8 Minutes

Learn how to shoot a pistol...fast. In this video, ‪@JamesReeves‬ trains with experienced Green Beret, Jimmy Cannon alongside‪@daniellevalkyrie‬ in Austria. This video offers a unique opportunity to learn fundamental skills in pistol handling, all presented in a concise, easy-to-follow format. Whether you're a beginner seeking a strong foundation or a seasoned enthusiast looking to brush up on your skills, this video is tailor-made for you. Get ready to embark on a fast-paced learning session, where efficiency meets expertise. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe.
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[@greenberetwoodworks6458]

I served with Jimmy in 10th SFG. He was always a true professional and it shows with this video. Count yorself lucky to get trained by Jimmy.

[@samzimmerman410]

I was in the 10th from 76 to 83. 3 Bn C Co, ODA 336 and 333. Great video. I teach CCW for Illinois residents and it was refreshing to see him use many of the same methods and techniques I was taught.

[@joshuawilliams6866]

Thank you both for your service 😊

[@constantinvaldor2281]

All these comments (below) are amazed at how good Jimmy's instruction is - and rightly so - but dude spent 26 years in the Army, and this was literally his job. Conducting training missions for foreign military forces to enhance their capabilities and effectiveness is one of the primary missions of US Army Special Forces.

[@jstoeck784]

I'm in 5th. Everything he said was spot on. Especially like that he said it wasn't the way. There are always techniques, just some are better than others.

[@JK-vc7ie]

Ft. Carson, Colorado

[@chaff5]

The main reason why I'd listen to him is because of the way he ended it: "I'm just letting you know what's worked for me... This is 'a' way and not necessarily 'the' way." He didn't make any proclamation of being the best. The mark of a true expert is knowing that you can know more and always learning.

[@jaysview4009]

Good fundamentals…

[@itspoffy]

Very. If someone thinks they are the way, stop listening.

[@faryldaryl3975]

The technique is like a finger, pointing to the moon. Focus on the finger, and miss all that heavenly glory. Absorb what is useful. Discard what is not. Create what is uniquely your own. - Bruce Lee

[@HolyCrapItsRich]

And also he's a frigging green beret, they aren't exactly giving out that title like candy lol

[@therealBocaStudios]

It’s basic military training here, in the USN everything was CQC derived and expanded from there. In the military you have to qualify a weapon based on a specific set of rules under a time limit. He’s teaching those rules the right way.

[@Mornomgir]

spent 22 years in the army and the police and this is thusfar the most concise, "easiest" and smoothest "this here is a gun, this is how you use it" ive encountered.

[@AlphaOmegaSigma07]

Bob Munden is like the Bruce Lee of revolver quick draw. "I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times." -Bruce Lee

[@HoboBob]

Man this is awesome!!! After 45 years of shooting and even teaching shooters it is so good to hear a real pro go through basics to re-establish our base! He's really good at conveying techniques to new shooters and old ones alike! Great video James!

[@richardbaynes3862]

I can add the same comment...but with 65 years of shooting and 50 years of CC...outstanding training...basic...vital!

[@madeconomist458]

Pointing with your support hand thumb is *GREAT* advice, definitely gonna practice that every time I draw.

[@walkerofpauls2710]

I run my Glock with no sight and aim with my thumbs (I stripped a screw in my mount). It’s fine without a dot lmao. Meanwhile my iron sights P365 is everywhere, really needs a dot.

[@TheDarksideFNothing]

Just started gearing up for competition style shooting and that's what cracked the code for me! I'm suddenly able to consistently get the dot up!

[@LPM147]

Super models, candy, trick pistols and a guy teaching you how to do it. This is by far some of the best content on YT. 😃

[@justanotherpatriot7873]

This guy is gold! Great instruction, and makes you remember every step.

[@ArloFSE]

Great video, the best part was the end with him being humble and advising people there are many ways to accomplish the same thing, his technique is what works best for him.

[@IamSalenaMaria]

This was one of the best videos I’ve ever seen on how to shoot a pistol. I’m definitely pointing to the candy from now on. 💯

[@geoffreygrant6833]

Okay, the candy thing was gold. i have never driven with my support hand. And instantly had a good target aquastion using the method. Also, i love how he was not overly pretentious with my way, or the highway simply stated it's worked for him, and not all techniques work for everyone. I have been a largely online built shooter watching many different instructors to gather techniques that i can try and adapt to my own style

[@BirdDogey1]

I love Austria. Been there twice. Beautiful doesn't even begin to cover it.

[@arcuz7862]

Nobody cares. Just send us the money and stay at home next time. 👋

[@Sd-yo2kd]

Yeah, it's a nice country. Especially the Outback. G'day Mate!

[@BirdDogey1]

@@Sd-yo2kd HA

[@josephpacchetti5997]

Great instructions, I see a lot of folks that use a different grip and the isosceles stance, I got my first Tool in 1966, and was a deputy sheriff in the early 80s and 99% of my tools were and are revolvers, mainly the 357-Magnum, and a small center fire auto for back-up, I use about the same grip as this gentleman, but I use a modified weaver stance, THX for posting. 🇺🇸

[@docwil2541]

Brother Deputy from the 80's and started on a wheelgun myself. I'm still in the game as a Personal Protection Officer, and wow, the skill set has really evolved from those early days. Doc

[@marioz3200]

Hooah! excellent brother, thank you for representing the US Army and us Veterans well! They are lucky to have you.

[@STepanHAmbroski]

This man illustrates everything that makes a great instructor, regardless of context. #1 Gives direct, unambiguous instructions for each of the fundamental steps, #2 Clarifies each of the parts of each action with easy to understand/remember actions/analogies, #3 Speaks with authority, but not condescension, #4 Demonstrates each of the steps slowly and deliberately, while continually calling out each of his actions, in real time, and harkening back to the base actions/analogies, #5 Presented the information in an orderly and timely manner, & #6 Ending the lesson by stating that this is not the only way to do it, but it is a way in which he, in his own experience, found success. I have not had the luxury of having formal instruction of this caliber in real life. Most of my instruction in how to shoot handguns are from the sagely ex-law enforcement or retired veteran who, while proficient with a handgun, is not nearly as well-versed as Mr. Cannon. It is safe to say that I learned more in the eight minutes presented here than I have in years of reading, viewing, and practical experience. Bravo Mr. Cannon! Thank you for your service and thank you for sharing your knowledge with those who want to learn. May you find continued success with your newest endeavor!

[@faryldaryl3975]

While their mission has been rather expanded these days, it used to be that Special Forces were first & foremost instructors for indigenous forces. I used to call them Teachers Without Borders, But With Guns.

[@LS-sx5qo]

Wow, this guy seems to be a insanely good teacher. He has way of explaining complex topics really easy and understandable, that is just extraordinary.

[@jakefromstatefarm9721]

Instructions not clear. Came home with a Snickers, Kit Kat and 6 Baby Ruth’s.

[@pimpbs01]

😂😂😂

[@bfreeman7550]

Remember, it’s reps that bring concepts into practice. Don’t get discouraged, keep trying! 😂😂

[@mazzamouth]

Okay, that's funny

[@skootr924]

The lesson isn't that you missed the target, but to figure out why😊

[@glaabaglooba]

Thats shooting with a spray gun

[@trentraymond8210]

WHOA!!!! Thank you James and THANK YOU Jimmy. Injust a few minutes of clear and concise instruction, my presentation and draw are significantly better. No more wasted time and ammo at the range for me.

[@wayne4386]

This was awesome, Quick clean and to the point, I worked with some spec ops guys for about 3 years in the Army, being their intel monitor. This dude just laid out the best 8 mins on a hand gun I've ever heard. Great vid.

[@RosterNumber47]

Jimmy Cannon- if you’re reading this, You may have the cool green hat, but you’ll always be ABLE. Incredible bit of instruction from one of the absolute best.

[@wmg1299able]

That was one of the most informative shooting vids I've ever seen. Easy to understand and presented in a reasonable amount of time. I like the lighthearted TFBTV vids, but this was a nice change of pace.

[@bitkarek]

good to have Miss Austria in the video.

[@farmerbrown84]

She's an "Instagram influencer" - should tell you everything you need to know.

[@gcarson19]

She has a soulless stare...

[@isaaccano6858]

@@farmerbrown84 To not be silly, wrap your willy?

[@brettb5089]

She’s cute but James is way hotter.

[@jclark2019]

I was thinking Russian but who cares James is hotter

[@Carltonancil]

Best 5 minutes I've spent in a long time. Thanks for the great basics. Never too old to learn. If only we could all spend time with Jimmy!

[@jonathanjohnson7036]

Great guy and very good instructor. Positive attitude and not too full of himself. Thanks for sharing. This really could be a video series to teach people the basics.

[@Dstev98141]

Best five minutes I have spent this year!

[@papimaximus95]

That's what she said! Sorry...too easy. I'll let myself out.

[@marcd1981]

It was 8 minutes of instruction

[@MiaogisTeas]

I can see why you think this was your hardest episode to edit, but you did a masterful job. Filming someone dynamic and appropriately verbose is nearly as difficult as editing it afterward; finding that narrative through-line, and making it coherent for the people who weren't there in the room is no small task. Well done!

[@LonghornShootingSports]

The SF guys teaching what competition shooters have been for a long time. With the red dot and comp. Nice work.

[@faryldaryl3975]

Where do you think the military got it from? From sending troopies to classes put on by competition shooters. Been reading about same since the '90s.

[@Heywoodthepeckerwood]

Top sf groups learn from civvies all the time, then they go back and instruct their fellow soldiers.

[@tacticalsapper]

MORE of him. I learned so much, my grip has improved like crazy.

[@antonioadinolfi4052]

I like this video and format, straight to the point and informative. Loads to unpack and I'm going to watch it many more times but ... in slow motion.

[@Olivehollow]

Nice quick rundown. Clean and simple.

[@Blue-cq2hl]

2 minutes in and this is already a ton of info and a really good relay and explanation of it all. I like that.

[@nfareview]

Excellent instructor! Developed each step clear and concise for a new shooter. Great stuff here.

[@Proton_Decay]

Good advice for people who already know how to hold a pistol and where to apply their grip pressure - missed a demo of any technique for where to apply pressure while holding the gun, with the dominant and off-hands. When I introduce first-timers, before the first shot (preferably at home) I spend about 30 minutes practicing holding, manipulation, grip, and dry firing with a laser attached (so I can track how the gun moves) - so far everyone I've started this way is consistently ringing steel at 25 yards at some cadence within a few mags.

[@THAT_1_FREEDOM-FIGHTER_GUY]

I gotta say, that little tip about elbow placement during your draw cycle is absolutely great. It makes a lot of sense and I will definitely be using it in the future as I really like the difference fabricated by that slight adjustment. 🔥

[@Quality_Guru]

The power clap is something I never considered. I will definitely give it a try!

[@nicksmolich957]

Any instructor who says "this is A way not THE way" knows what the hell hes talking about. Hes able to instruct without an ego. Great instructor and great techniques taught in this video! Thank you!

[@IamCurrentlyAscending]

That was the most wildly informative 10 minutes I think I've ever watched on youtube.

[@clintjakstas5550]

Just watched video I am an Officer for 22 years, Great video good explanation and to the point. Awesome way to go brother-stay safe.

[@atomicsmith]

That’s so crazy. I just started experimenting with ‘aiming’ with my left thumb. I’ve never heard anybody talk about it till now. so far I’ve had good results.

[@boomer7485]

Excellent job. His training is spot on and anyone new or trying to advance in pistol shooting , listen to this guy.

[@richierich3053]

Really enjoyed listening to what this man had to share with us about the pistol shooting technique that has worked for him seemed like a very humble down to earth dude definitely going to try to find more stuff from him.

[@GunnerVFox]

This video has let me know i need to get in some reps. Thanks fren

[@a9fc]

"This is what works for me, this is a way, not THE way" - the typical advise of a *real* pro. Also like there's a lot of focus on the fundamentals. Thanks!

[@ExhumedButhcer]

Amazing video, Jimmy is a great instructor for sure, i love the way he explain.😎 James and Danielle are both great shooters too🤩😊

[@DossFarm]

Now I want candy 🍬 Great stuff as always 😎 LOVE the short fast and hurry edit as well.

[@RosealeeCorey]

Candy got married

[@jamesdouglaswhite]

Holy moly! Unbelievable reload! Thank you so much for sharing.

[@michalmak176]

Jimmy is a solid instructor, indeed. I’m glad he continues doing awesome things for people who want to improve their shooting.

[@jonathanwilliams7161]

Great video! ❤️ We need waaaay more content on the "basics". I also love how this instructor also interjects some "comedy" into his teaching, making it a bit of fun. I also believe it's (the basics) are not given "priority" as much as "speed" etc.... Again love this video! ❤️

[@gtrscort1]

Never heard ANYONE talk about presenting the gun using your support hand. Doing this made a huge difference in finding my dot. Especially since I’m cross-eyed dominant. Great idea!

[@thepragmaticfarmer6308]

I had an ex special ops instructor show me the thumb "trick" way back in the day and it was a game changer for me. I since went 12 years without picking up a pistol and it was the one thing I never forgot when I picked it up again.

[@SAR0311]

Not a trick, just normal

[@KrishnaMusicc]

No matter how efficient you are in pistol shooting it's always great to watch these because there's something different to take away from every instructor :D

[@oldschoolhomesteadfarm2683]

Learned 5 new things in first 2 minutes Jimmy seems to be a man that I wish could learn from. Very direct & comited to teaching the students correctly. At 5.45 wish the camera person would have walked around him a bit so could see the hand position from other side. But watching Valerie learn made up for that. Keep up the great content. From the Blue State masshole sighing out.

[@RochX-7]

So lucky to have this training-thank you.

[@ListentoGallegos]

This was alot of fun and educational. I love it!

[@BadBoyTobinMclain]

I love how the gun coming out of holster is synonymous with the gun being fired. It’s a good motto to live by, and will minimize ADs and The cardinal sin of brandishing

[@A_Sense_Of_Purpos3]

I really like the way he explains things because he goes into the logic behind why he does things the way he does.

[@CalzaTheFox]

Some people will act like experts, but the proof is in the pudding. You can tell, even if it is subtle, that Jimmy has been practicing A LOT. His draw is near instant, his reload is near instant - if you blink you miss them. He had to mentally stop himself from press checking the pistol because that's what his hands have been trained instinctively to do.

[@globalvision9036]

One of the best clear cut videos I have seen!

[@robertreedy414]

Short, sweet, solid. Thank you for your service.

[@james.bracken]

Honestly, great video. Super simple fundamental techniques that are memorable and easy to train.

[@artdelcueto3072]

Jimmy needs his own channel and social media links. This guy is a true bad ass. Great job

[@mikepeezy]

Great video!!! As a new shooter, I am looking forward to applying some of these techniques to see what works best for me. Thanks for the solid vid!

[@TheRonjhet]

one humble statement that makes him one of the great trainers, " this is A WAY.., and it works for me..." thank you, sir

[@megavoltelectrocycles]

You’re certainly training some “dandy candy”. A 10 with a firearm, now thats dangerous. Great lesson bro! Thanks

[@NotMyName-q2v]

I will put this on a loop and watch it for a week. I thought I had an idea of how to shoot. GREAT instruction…

[@RogerSingh7]

Short, Sweet, To the point, Precise and boy did I learn.

[@brandonrupp5880]

I like the thumb advice. I'll definitely be trying that in the future.

[@miamidiver7]

Will be training with the family at the range with this. Great techniques.

[@nicholaslowery7746]

Dude mad props. You are a fantastic teacher!

[@snow_tacknives2024]

Love everything and his energy, I'm just an iron sight guy I will never use a red dot. You don't really need it. This video makes me want to breakout my handgun collection in my safe, it's pretty impressive collection. Canik is my favorite pistol right now, my Glocks take the back of the bus seating.

[@AngryR3d]

Man, this is such a great video. I've watched it half a dozen times and each time I watch it I pick up on some subtle thing I missed previously. Thanks for posting. 'Points support finger at Kit-Kat'.

[@freshsimpofbelair6050]

As a novice pistol shooter I really appreciate this man’s way of explaining these things.

[@smack9516]

Besides the point-but she is fine😁 Back on point…Great instructor & presentation👍 Thank you!

[@coomman-e4j]

I am bad at handgun shooting so the narcissistic schizophrenia in me said this video is all about me thank you James.

[@jstoeck784]

Pistols are all about practice. It is so easy to get rusty with a sidearm. Develop the proper technique and dryfire a lot.

[@micaKTM1290]

I rarely watch a shooting tutorial, this was good and what Jimmy said at the end is why I don't watch tutorials. Nearly all them act like they are the end all, be all of handgun shooting and half the time they are just making shit up. Much respect for his disclaimer.

[@ScottKyu]

I'm proficient with rifles but with my first ever pistol I've been struggling. I've been shooting nearly 350 rounds and couldn't find out why I was sucking so bad. Yesterday, grouping was getting tighter and I thought maybe I'm getting there. Watching this video three times and doing exactly what Jimmy is saying, I could see what I was doing wrong and right. Thanks TFBTV and crew. God bless.

[@bartofilms]

One of the Best IPSC Competitors and Defensive Firearms Instructors I ever met, lived in California but he was originally from Austria, having come up through their Special Forces, into Diplomatic Protection and later building a training facility very much like this one. He often won local IPSC matches running an 8 shot revolver against 18+ round open 1911’s. I’m sure he’d have loved this facility. His name was Rudolph (Rudy) Waldinger. 10:11

[@scootertart]

Good clear instruction and advice, thanks

[@christiansorensen7567]

You can tell how much respect James has for this guy, on account of the lack of shorts.

[@ricoo1861]

Nice! Would like to see him explain translating that to plate carrier/IOTV use. Additionally how much changes when using a drop leg over hip/mid-ride holster

[@user-vc5rp7nf8f]

he's very direct. and his movements are so fast

[@SgtRandoni]

WOW, that guy is a pro AF. Really impressive. Great content. Thanks!

[@valhalla3367]

I have known Jimmy for a very long time. He was just at my house a few months back. We know each other well. Great video here. Good job. Jimmy is right it “A” way not necessarily “the” only way

[@wirey68]

Wow! That was the best fast track video I've ever seen on pistol fundamentals. Awesome.

[@clintonellyson9675]

Excellent video. Well worth watching... over and over. Practice, practice, practice.

[@jonbrooks8699]

Great content, training & knowledge! Good stuff 💯

[@linkh200]

Fantastic teacher, fantastic video!

[@phylodude]

The focus on the supporting hand is enlightening.

[@jeffreyjrearheart6656]

Love this video. What a great instructor. Thank you

[@koolerthanapolarbear]

Point with support hand thumb. Never heard of that one before, definitely gonna try it out

[@michaelblacktree]

Same here.

[@odinheathen_]

Absolutely great video! I love seeing well informed and presented information from a seasoned vet. Keep up the great work, and get that candy! :)

[@coalsauce4457]

wow thats amazing instruction. i tend to explain stuff like that too, throwing heaps of analogies in their emphasizing on latman chokepoints like knowing when to flex what muscle and where exactly to focus and track. i used to think it was my tism tendencies but nope jimmy shows its just expert coaching.

[@jameslucas5590]

This video just became part of my repeat watch list.

[@JamesSmith-ui1iu]

No idea why this popped up on my feed, I don't shoot guns and never have but if I ever do, I want this guy to teach me!

[@mikefarley]

One key point I hadn't heard before is to keep the drawing arm elbow in by your side versus extended outward. I never thought about it, but it definitely makes a difference, especially if you have a torn rotator cuff or shoulder injury. Elbow in=smooth, effortless draw to chest, then snap outward on target. Thanks, Jimmy!

[@WalterA-b3d]

I could watch on hour worth of this great instruction. Thanks for this video.

[@trentmiller7336]

Go watch Ben Stoeger. Literally posted a whole class. Way better than this.

[@jeffrylee4862]

Thank You!!!! That was so informative and I really enjoyed this and look forward to more great instruction. Would love to attend his classes.

[@rik4369]

Really good video on the ART OF SHOOTING. Great work Solider!!!! Semper Fi

[@MarkBackus-k8u]

Great stuff Jimmy!! Excellent delivery! Truly one of the best!!

[@The210MHz]

pure gold!

[@shikai1169]

i wish all bjj instructors instruct like him. there is so much information out there.