What is a fundamental component of basic marksmanship?

A fundamental component of basic marksmanship is grip. Proper grip on a firearm is essential as it directly influences the stability of the shooter and the accuracy of the shot. A good grip helps to control the muzzle rise, allows for more consistent trigger control, and aids in maintaining proper alignment of the sights with the target. It provides the shooter with a consistent hold, which is a vital part of developing muscle memory, enabling them to shoot effectively and accurately over time.

In marksmanship, other aspects such as speed, ambidexterity, and range estimation may be relevant; however, they are not foundational components. Speed can enhance performance but is less significant than proper technique when discussing basic skills. Ambidexterity, while advantageous for some shooters, is not a requirement for effective shooting. Range estimation is a more advanced skill that comes into play after mastering the basics, focusing more on understanding distances to improve accuracy rather than being a fundamental marksmanship skill.