146 MANUAL FOR YOUNG SPORTSMEN. 
that liability we guard against by elevated sights. What 
is called a point-blank shot, for there really exists no such 
thing, is merely a shot which we fire from the ordinary 
elevation of our piece, without extra allowance made, at 
the centre of the mark. 
It is clear, therefore, that in aiming with a rifle, abso- 
lute precision of aim is positively requisite. There is no 
space for chance or good fortune even in a minimum 
degree. The ball must be sped exactly to the identical 
spot which it must hit, and the divergence of a hair’s 
breadth at the muzzle will grow into inches or even feet 
as the range increases. 
Therefore the aim must be taken with the utmost 
deliberation and certainty, and must be maintained per- 
fect, which can only be done by great steadiness of nerve, 
perfect coolness of temper, and sufficient muscular power, 
until not merely the trigger is drawn, but the ball is dis- 
missed from the barrel. 
I am satisfied that in rifle-shooting, the more misses 
by far occur in consequence of the shooter disturbing a 
correct aim, and diverting his barrel never so little from 
the true line, by the act of pulling the trigger, or by 
flinching from the flash or report, than of his taking a false 
direction in the first instance. 
If, therefore, nerve be valuable to any shooter, to the 
rifleman it is indispensable. The slightest tremor, even 
the motion communicated by the act of breathing Jabori- 
ously to the muscles of the arm and shoulder, is sufficient 
to disturb the truest aim and spoil the finest shot. 
It is impossible, therefore, for one half at least, if not 
