Shooting to Live describes methods developed and practiced during an eventful quarter of a century and adopted by numerous police organization in the Far East and elsewhere. It covers everything from the purpose of the pistol, to selection, training, advance methods and more! This book was the first time that fighting with firearms was clearly and explicitly disassociated from classical target/range shooting. The proven techniques displayed have spawned most modern pistol techniques because of their simplicity and effectiveness. It is written as instruction to police forces in the methods of shooting (reflexive/instinctive) and training (realistic/challenging) that the author developed over two decades active service in Shanghai.

This book, written in 1942, presents an excellent review of standard techniques and some unorthodox methodology in the use of the pistol. Firing positions, loading, unloading, the building of combat ranges, known-distance ranges, types of holsters, and the wearing of pistols are delved into with great clarity and precision. For weapons enthusiasts and professionals who are tasked with pistol training and marksmanship, this book will add to your knowledge and capabilities in carrying out your duties. Captain William E. Fairbairn was Assistant Commissioner, and Captain Eric Anthony Sykes was officer in charge of the Snipers Unit, both of the Shanghai Municipal Police Department.