What does the extreme spread measure in shooting?

The correct answer is that the extreme spread measures the length of the shot pattern from the farthest two bullet holes. This measurement is crucial in evaluating accuracy because it gives a clear indication of the dispersion of shots fired. By identifying the maximum distance between the two most distant impacts, shooters and analysts can assess the consistency and precision of the shooting performance.

Understanding this concept is vital for shooters looking to improve their marksmanship, as a smaller extreme spread often indicates better control and accuracy. This measurement allows for the assessment of various factors that can affect performance, such as rifle stability, ammunition consistency, and the shooter's technique during firing.

In contrast, other choices focus on different aspects of shooting performance, like maximum distance between high and low shots or average shot placements, which are not directly reflective of the dispersion pattern as measured by the extreme spread. The extreme spread specifically quantifies the physical layout of bullet impacts rather than their relationship to the target's center or their individual distances from it.