What group size is acceptable at what range when using handguns?

Since 09-21-08

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September 19th, 2008

by 'UJ2744e'

I think it will be interesting to see what people think about what level of accuracy/precision is necessary when using handguns at short to very long range on non-moving targets. Assume your brisk firing rate at close range and your faster-than-target-shooting but more measured rate at longer ranges.

Here's an example of what I mean for a full cylinder or magazine:

7 yards: About several inches, good enough for ideal thoracic or head shots.
15 yards: About a grapefruit size, good enough for ideal thoracic, aimed head shots iffy.
25 yards: About on the thoracic main center of mass for all shots, no aimed head shots.
50 yards: About on the thoracic main center of mass for most shots, no aimed head shots.
100 yards: About on the body anywhere, mainly on the thoracic main center of mass, and definitely no aimed head shots.

I think the range capability may vary according to pistol or revolver, and probably many other "fixed" variables. Specify your firearm type at least and respond as you see fit.

I find that practicing at really long range tends to tighten up close range groups considerably. This is because little errors make huge differences at longer range, but may go unnoticed at shorter range. Works this way with rifles too.

Where do people stand in their thinking on this issue?