Part 3: Reload Efficiency & Breaking Mental Barriers

By Paige “Paige-Chan” Huynh

(USPSA Shooter, Content Creator)

In Part 3 of my training with GM DeShaun Jenkins, we tackle two major skill builders: reload mechanics and the mental game that holds shooters back more than anything else.

Coach DJ walks me through the essentials of a clean, efficient reload:

• Start with the back magazine — it’s faster, and your gun is already chambered.

• Use your pointer finger as the guide, letting gravity do most of the work.

• Rebuild focus immediately after the swap so the first shot lands with purpose.

• 
  

The biggest breakthrough? Spotting the exact moment I stopped hesitating after a reload and started hitting alphas consistently instead of rushing.

Then we confronted a mental block I didn’t realize was affecting me — fear of hard cover. DJ helped me understand how to aim through it, not around it, which instantly improved confidence and accuracy.

By the end of the session, I walked away with cleaner reloads, tighter groups, and smoother transitions. The highlight was a 1.17-second first shot on a mini popper, a reminder that when the fundamentals click, the speed follows.

Train With Us:

🌐 Tactical Playground HQ: https://www.tacticalplaygroundhq.com/

 🎯 Private coaching with GM DeShaun Jenkins: @djenks412