Vintage "Pistol" Training Manual by J. D. Chandler – National Coaching Scheme Booklet

An authentic, highly collectible vintage instructional booklet titled "PISTOL", compiled by noted authority J. D. Chandler under the auspices of the National Coaching Scheme.

This scarce publication served as an official training syllabus for competitive target shooting coaches and marksmen within the British club circuit from around 1965 to 1978.

The manual provides a comprehensive, structured four-evening syllabus outlining the core foundations of precision pistol shooting:

Evening 1: Safety & Setup – Crucial safety protocols in the clubhouse and on the firing point, alongside equipment configuration.

Evening 2: How to Shoot – Focuses on physiological mechanics including stance, grip, and breath control.

Includes a fascinating technical section breakdown of the "triangular support area" for feet placement.

Evening 3: Aim & Mechanics – Detailed guidance on sight picture, "calling the shot", and mastering trigger control.

Evening 4: Diagnosis & Review – Fault analysis, examination guidelines, and an excellent historical comparative specification table for choosing a .22 target pistol.

Of particular interest to firearms historians and vintage target shooting enthusiasts is the comprehensive comparative pistol data chart near the rear of the booklet.

It lists exact weights, barrel lengths, sight bases, trigger weights, and mechanical features for classic Olympic and target handguns of the era, including models by Browning, Colt, High-Standard, Hämmerli, Ruger, Smith & Wesson, Vostock, and Walther.

The booklet is in an overall good vintage condition.

The textured card covers showing honest signs of age, including minor foxing, yellowing, and light surface marks commensurate with age and handling.

it is securely bound with two original metal staples.

Mild rust patination present on the staples, as is typical for ephemera of this vintage, but holding perfectly firm.

Internal Pages are clean, legible, and completely free from modern highlighting or ink annotations.

A wonderful, nostalgic reference piece for a classic firearms literature collection or an excellent addition to a vintage shooting club display. 

It measures 235mm x 65mm.

 The photographs are of the actual item and form part of the description.

 Please examine the photographs carefully and if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact us.