Hammered pairs drill adds shifting aim points and bore offset checks

Hammered pairs are a staple of rifle training, but the version shown in this clip from Tactical Rifleman adds a wrinkle: the shooter shifts point of aim between shots instead of stacking rounds in the same spot. The instructor walks through why that small adjustment matters more than it looks like it should.

Key points

• Shifting aim beats a static group: the drill has the shooter move point of aim slightly between hits, which Tactical Rifleman says accounts for a target that is moving without the shot group drifting far left or right.
• Speed stays the same: the demonstrator fires at the identical cadence used for a standard hammered pair, showing the adjustment doesn't cost time on target.
• Target the anatomy, not just the X: the video stresses placing rounds where they do reliable damage, arguing that's what actually puts the target down rather than raw round count.
• Height-over-bore changes your hold: because the optic sits above the bore, Tactical Rifleman points out you need to aim a bit higher at close range to hit where you intend, and that offset is specific to each rifle setup.
• Know your own gun: the instructor tells shooters to actually test and confirm their height-over-bore offset rather than assume it, which only comes from range time.

Quick take

This is a simple drill with a real payoff: it forces you to separate "fast" from "effective" and reminds you that optic height isn't just a spec sheet number, it changes your hold up close. Worth running at your next range session if you haven't checked your own offset.

Watch the full video: Tactical Rifleman