99% of Shooters Grip Their Pistol WRONG

This guide, presented by firearms instructor John G. Johnson, details the critical steps to achieving a consistent and accurate pistol grip. It emphasizes aligning the firearm's center with the hand's center, achieving a high grip on the backstrap, and ensuring a firm, 360-degree contact with both hands. Proper grip is presented as foundational for recoil management and overall shooting accuracy.

Quick Summary

Achieving a consistent pistol grip is paramount for accuracy. Align the firearm's center with your hand's center, grip high on the backstrap, and ensure both hands make firm contact for 360-degree control. Position the pistol over your dominant eye, not your nose, and maintain balanced grip pressure to manage recoil effectively.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Accuracy Problems and Consistency
  2. 00:21Focus on Grip for Accuracy
  3. 00:47Demonstrating the Ideal Grip Alignment
  4. 01:08Proper Hand Placement: High Grip and Neutral Thumb
  5. 01:41Forming the Two-Handed Grip
  6. 02:08Aligning the Pistol with Your Dominant Eye
  7. 02:35Understanding Grip Pressure: Dominant vs. Non-Dominant Hand
  8. 02:51The Importance of a Level Pistol and Trigger Press
  9. 03:07Grip for Recoil Management
  10. 03:29Why Proper Grip is Crucial for Accuracy
  11. 03:46Invitation to John G. Johnson's School Community
  12. 04:56Call to Action: Like, Subscribe, and Bell Icon

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important factor for improving pistol accuracy?

According to firearms instructor John G. Johnson, consistency is the key to accuracy. This consistency is built upon a proper and repeatable grip. Without a positive grip, achieving accurate shots becomes significantly more challenging, impacting all other aspects of shooting.

How should I position my hands for an optimal pistol grip?

Start by aligning the center line of the firearm with the center of your dominant hand. Grip as high as possible on the backstrap, keeping your finger off the trigger. Your thumb should be in a neutral position. Then, introduce your non-dominant hand, ensuring it makes firm contact and locks in with your thumbs.

Where should the pistol be aligned relative to my eyes for accurate shooting?

The pistol should be positioned over your dominant eye, not your nose. To achieve this, you may need to turn your chin slightly. The goal is to have the weapon descending down your arm and your eye moving up the arm to meet the sights, ensuring a level sight picture.

What causes a pistol to shoot low and left?

While several factors can contribute, the most common cause for low and left impacts is an imbalance in grip pressure. This typically involves under-squeezing with your non-dominant hand and over-squeezing with your dominant hand, disrupting the firearm's natural recoil impulse.

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Firearms Training By John G. Johnson

View all →