Basic Pistol Class Firearms Training Series Pistol 101 Ep. 3

This episode of the Firearms Training Series focuses on the proper technique for controlling a handgun, emphasizing the combat grip. Instructor John G. Johnson details how to establish a secure grip using both hands, highlighting the importance of the non-dominant hand for recoil management and control. He also offers specific advice for female shooters on leveraging body mechanics for effective weapon control.

Quick Summary

The combat grip is essential for pistol control, involving interlocking both hands with the non-dominant hand supporting the dominant one. This technique, along with driving the gun forward and pulling back with the support hand, maximizes recoil management and stability. Female shooters can enhance control by focusing on wrist action and leaning into the firearm.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Pistol Grip
  2. 00:08Controlling the Weapon: Dominant Hand
  3. 00:36Placing the Weapon in the Hand
  4. 00:45Demonstrating the Proper Grip
  5. 00:51Trigger Finger Placement
  6. 01:01Forming the Combat Grip
  7. 01:12Power from the Non-Dominant Hand
  8. 01:32Grip Control for Female Shooters
  9. 02:03Wrist and Body Lean for Control
  10. 02:16The Bird/Butterfly Grip Analogy
  11. 02:35Closing Fingers for Grip
  12. 02:56Avoiding Thumb Behind Slide
  13. 03:15Importance of Proper Grip
  14. 03:23Controlling Weapon Rise and Fall

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct way to hold a pistol for maximum control?

The correct way to hold a pistol for maximum control is using a combat grip. This involves interlocking both hands, with the non-dominant hand supporting the dominant hand. The non-dominant hand plays a crucial role in managing recoil by pulling back as the dominant hand drives the firearm forward.

How should female shooters adjust their grip for recoil control?

Female shooters can effectively control recoil by focusing on wrist action and leaning into the firearm. This technique leverages body mechanics, particularly back muscles, for stability rather than relying solely on muscling the weapon with arm strength.

Where should the trigger finger be placed when not firing?

When not actively firing, the trigger finger should always be kept straight and placed along the side of the firearm, away from the trigger guard. This is a fundamental safety principle to prevent accidental discharges.

What is a common mistake to avoid when gripping a pistol?

A critical mistake to avoid is placing your thumb behind the slide. The slide moves rapidly back and forth during firing, and an improperly positioned thumb can be caught, leading to painful injury.

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