I remember hearing that at any given time even an experience firearm shooter can expect to lose 50% or more of their accuracy when the Adrenalin kicks in during an active shooter situation.
That makes these shots even more impressive. Dickens is one cool cat.
As in most fight or flight syndrome events, “it depends” is the correct response.
Adrenalin can make one jumpy, jittery and generally worthless, but, often, again many variables dependent, it makes one rock solid, perceptive and able to leap small buildings in big bounds. A combination of kinesiology, hand eye coordination and both fine and gross motor control.
And, a survival mindset is a known key variable.
40 yards is a good way off with a fighting handgun. And, in practice, a deliberate well aimed shot with a handgun by other than a very proficient pistolero, it is difficult at best, but, when the chips are down, the background mind can and does, with adequate practical experience, make tremendous differences in outcomes.
Train as you likely will have to fight, then some more. I am quite certain this young man did not just own a gun and do wonders with it in a vacuum. He likely had a good bit of on the range and in the books background, even if he isn’t a Gunsite alum.
Well done.
This is why competitive shooting is a good, simulated environment for the self-defense minded shooter. IDPA, USPSA, 3-gun etc all have the excitement of nerves and stress- go shoot some, but remember, it’s a game, so don’t forget the tactics aspect, outside of the rulebooks.
Leave a little room for divine intervention though; it was clearly in play.
The fact that Eli was prepared for the situation was helpful.