Roly wrote:...I look forward to someone posting how a Scatt, etc., was incorporated into their training and whether they felt it was a significant aid in improving their scores.
One of our junior shooters used a SCATT (with a coach) to work on shot timing and shot rejection. After roughly two months of solid work on timing, she had successfully developed her technique to where she would release her shot within about 3 seconds of settling on target. During a match, while everyone else was on about shot 17, she had finished her series of 40 shots -- with a 393/400. She had rejected dozens of shots, but was only taking a few seconds to settle and release, so the competition went very quickly. The training with a SCATT, and a coach who could interpret, really helped her improve.
I have also used a SCATT to help with my trigger control. While I'm older and not nearly as talented as the junior shooter mentioned above, I have had some success in reducing the number of flyers by reviewing the trace and seeing where my pistol is pointing in the time from .5 seconds before release to .2 seconds, to release. I can definitely tell when something changes, whether it is inconsistent trigger control or grip.
The way I see it, the SCATT is used as a diagnostic tool and for feedback. There is a lot the SCATT can identify for you, but having a coach who can interpret the results and help you with the proper training is where the real benefit is. You can then continue your training with the SCATT and receive the feedback as to your progress.
But improving your scores isn't just about perfecting your technique. Your overall performance depends upon your physical performance, technical performance and mental performance. SCATT training will help you with the technical aspects of shooting, but the physical and mental aspects can make a huge difference and can't be ignored. If you train for six months on a SCATT without competing, don't be surprised if your scores don't improve in competition. You need to train under match conditions (regular competition) in order to improve that aspect of mental performance.
I hope this helps answer your question.