Precision Zone: 7 Min of Precision Ep #14: Dry Fire Drills and Stage Prep with Marchand Hovrud

Most of us don’t have the option to train every day or access a world-class facility nearby. With work, family, and the surprises of adult life, our training time is limited. Fortunately, there are tools and drills that allow you to train effectively at home. In a recent episode of Precision Zone, host Sharief is joined by Marchand Hovrud, a competitive PRS shooter, who walks us through her match prep—from the days before an event to her routine immediately before each stage, including dry-fire drills and stage planning —and shares her origin story.

FINDING THE SPORT THE LONG WAY AROUND

Marchand begins by describing her unconventional path to precision rifle shooting. She started with a pistol for self-defense, then went on family hunting trips and realized she needed more skill to make ethical shots. This led her to the Portland Sportsman Show, where volunteering as an RO connected her with the precision rifle community and deepened her involvement in the sport.

FROM FIRST RIFLE TO COMPETITIVE RHYTHM

Marchand’s early experience was shaped largely by the people around her, who helped her bypass the typical entry-level path and jump straight into building a custom rifle. That rifle was initially chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor and later rebarreled to 6mm Creedmoor for PRS competition. Although she eventually added reloading, her experience underscores an important point: modern factory ammunition—especially Hornady ELD-M—has advanced to the point that it’s no longer a barrier to entry. With the right gear and ammo, getting started is easier than many shooters think, provided they’re willing to learn.

PRS VS. NRL HUNTER: TWO DIFFERENT GAMES

Later in the episode, Marchand and Sharief debate PRS and NRL Hunter. PRS emphasizes observation and repetition, allowing shooters to study stages, watch others, and refine execution. NRL Hunter leans into the unknown—target locations, natural terrain, and time pressure that demand real-time problem-solving. It more closely mirrors real-world hunting, requiring efficient gear management, rapid ranging, and instinctive wind calls. Power-factor scoring further reinforces its practical, field-focused mindset.

PRACTICE WITH PURPOSE

In Marchand’s approach, preparation is deliberate and structured. Dry fire plays a central role—not just for trigger control but also for building efficient movement and solid positions. And this can be practiced at home with improvised barricades and props. Live fire is approached with the same intent, targeting specific weaknesses identified in previous matches. Rather than burning through ammunition, the focus is on precise improvement, whether sharpening transitions, stabilizing awkward positions, or refining wind calls. Key takeaway: Purposeful practice, not volume, advances progress in precision shooting.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The precision rifle community is known for its camaraderie and mentorship. If you are new or a beginner, this support will help you progress faster than going it alone. Each match and practice session requires self-assessment—reviewing mistakes, taking notes, and setting goals, just like in any sport. But we can’t always make it to the range. So, dry fire and other skill-building exercises from home can be easily added to your practice routine and will make you a better shooter.

For insight, check out the Precision Zone YouTube Channel.