Draw or "The Presentation": Handgun Tip | Gunsite Academy Firearms Training

This video details the five-step 'Presentation' sequence for drawing a handgun from a holster, as taught at Gunsite Academy. The steps are Grip, Clear, Rotate (including disengaging the safety on a 1911), Smack (hands meet, finger to trigger), and Look (front sight acquisition as arms extend). The emphasis is on practicing slowly to build smooth, fast execution.

Quick Summary

Gunsite Academy's 'Presentation' method for drawing a handgun involves five steps: Grip (establish full grip in holster), Clear (draw straight up), Rotate (turn towards target, disengage safety), Smack (hands meet, finger to trigger), and Look (acquire front sight as you extend). Practice slowly: 'slow is smooth, and smooth is fast'.

Chapters

  1. 00:12Introduction to Gunsite Academy & The Presentation
  2. 00:33Step 1: Grip
  3. 00:43Step 2: Clear the Holster
  4. 00:49Step 3: Rotate and Disengage Safety
  5. 01:05Step 4: Hands Meet & Finger to Trigger
  6. 01:14Step 5: Look for Sight & Extend
  7. 01:52Summary and Practice Philosophy

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the five steps to drawing a handgun from a holster according to Gunsite Academy?

Gunsite Academy calls the handgun draw 'The Presentation' and breaks it down into five steps: 1. Grip (establish full grip in holster), 2. Clear (draw straight up), 3. Rotate (turn towards target, disengage safety if applicable), 4. Smack (hands meet, finger to trigger), and 5. Look (acquire front sight as you extend).

How should you practice drawing a handgun for maximum effectiveness?

The key principle emphasized by Gunsite Academy's Charlie McNeese is to practice slowly. The philosophy is 'slow is smooth, and smooth is fast,' meaning deliberate, precise movements build the foundation for speed and accuracy.

What is the significance of the 'Rotate' step in the handgun draw?

The 'Rotate' step involves bringing the handgun towards the target and, for pistols like the 1911, disengaging the thumb safety. This position also serves as a retention firing stance for very close encounters before full extension.

When should the trigger press begin during a handgun draw?

According to the Gunsite Academy method, the trigger press should begin during the arm extension phase. The shot should break precisely as the shooter's arms lock out, ensuring the sights are aligned on the target.

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