How to Fix Tension That’s Killing Your Shooting Performance

Published on March 8, 2026
Duration: 15:51

This video by Joel Park focuses on identifying and mitigating shooting tension, particularly grip and trigger control issues. He demonstrates how to set conditions for problems to appear and introduces drills like the Progressive Return Drill to improve trigger manipulation and reduce tension. The discussion also touches on how equipment capabilities influence performance expectations.

Quick Summary

To fix shooting tension, practice drills like the Progressive Return Drill, which involves firing strings of 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 shots, allowing the firearm to settle between strings. This helps manage recoil and improve trigger control, mitigating issues like trigger freeze and grip tension.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Shooting Tension
  2. 00:37Common Shooting Issues: Grip and Tension
  3. 01:15Analyzing Trigger Pull and Grip Tension
  4. 02:24Setting Conditions to Expose Tension Problems
  5. 03:33Progressive Return Drill Explained
  6. 04:51Rapid Fire Pairs and Reactive Shooting
  7. 05:47Designated Target Drill
  8. 06:12Firearm Capability and Expectations
  9. 07:40Doubles Drill with Different Pistols
  10. 09:32Steel Plate Standardized Test
  11. 11:42Student Performance with Different Pistols
  12. 13:24Key Takeaways: Conditions and Gear Expectations
  13. 14:23Personal Training Philosophy
  14. 15:18Gear Matters: Adjusting Difficulty
  15. 15:34Conclusion and Further Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Progressive Return Drill for handgun shooting?

The Progressive Return Drill involves firing strings of 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 shots. After each string, the shooter allows the firearm to return to the target and settle before proceeding to the next string, helping to manage recoil and improve trigger control.

How does tension affect handgun shooting performance?

Excessive tension in the grip and during the trigger pull can lead to significant shooting performance issues, including trigger freeze, pushing into the gun, and reduced accuracy. It makes smooth, controlled shots much more difficult.

Why is it important to set specific conditions for shooting drills?

Setting specific conditions, such as close distances and rapid-fire requirements, helps to expose underlying issues like tension that might not be apparent in less demanding scenarios. This allows for targeted practice and improvement.

How does firearm equipment influence shooting expectations?

The capabilities of a firearm, such as its trigger weight, recoil management, and overall design, directly impact expected performance. A highly capable race gun will allow for faster splits and greater accuracy than a stock duty pistol.

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Joel Park

View all →