Do you really do that with your thumbs?

Published on December 19, 2025
Duration: 3:51

World-renowned shooter Ben Stoeger explains his 'floaty thumbs' grip technique, emphasizing consistency and predictability over maximum leverage. By allowing the support thumb to float, shooters can avoid interfering with slide lockback and achieve more repeatable recoil recovery. This pragmatic approach is demonstrated across various platforms like the Atlas 2011, Sig P320, and P226, highlighting its universal applicability for performance.

Quick Summary

Ben Stoeger's 'floaty thumbs' grip technique involves letting the support hand's thumb float off the firearm frame to enhance consistency and prevent interference. This method prioritizes predictable recoil recovery and avoids issues like preventing slide lockback, making it a pragmatic approach for performance.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to 'Floaty Thumbs'
  2. 00:31Grip Mechanics on Atlas 2011
  3. 01:06Consistency Over Force Philosophy
  4. 01:31Platform Consistency (Sig P320)
  5. 02:41Avoiding Control Interference (Sig P226)
  6. 03:16Summary of Grip Philosophy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ben Stoeger's 'floaty thumbs' grip technique?

Ben Stoeger's 'floaty thumbs' technique involves allowing the support hand's thumb to float off the firearm's frame rather than pressing it firmly. This aims to increase consistency in recoil recovery and prevent interference with firearm controls like the slide stop.

Why does Ben Stoeger recommend a 'floaty thumbs' grip?

He advocates for consistency and predictability. 'Doing nothing' with the thumb is easier to repeat precisely than applying a specific, variable force. This method also avoids accidentally preventing the slide from locking back.

How does the 'floaty thumbs' grip affect slide lockback?

By not pressing the thumb against the slide stop lever, the 'floaty thumbs' grip eliminates a common cause of slide failure to lock back on an empty magazine. This ensures the firearm functions as designed after the last round.

Is the 'floaty thumbs' grip applicable to all firearms?

Ben Stoeger demonstrates this grip on various platforms, including the Atlas 2011, Sig P320, and Sig P226, suggesting it's a universal technique. The focus is on the shooter's consistent application, not just the gun.

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