Is There an “Easy Mode” for Trigger Control?

Published on March 15, 2026
Duration: 10:42

Joel Park, an expert instructor with competitive shooting experience, explains why a 'prep and press' trigger technique is problematic for DA/SA firearms and how it differs from striker-fired systems. He provides specific dry-fire drills to improve trigger control and eliminate sympathetic movement, emphasizing focusing on the firing hand and adjusting grip pressure. The advice is geared towards intermediate to advanced shooters looking to refine their technique.

Quick Summary

Expert instructor Joel Park explains that DA/SA trigger dry fire differs from striker-fired. For DA/SA, pull the trigger fully through the double-action stroke, then reset for single-action. Avoid the 'prep and press' technique, which disrupts aim due to increasing DA resistance. Practice isolating the trigger finger by loosening the firing hand grip.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Listener Question: DA/SA Dry Fire
  2. 00:22Class Experience: DA/SA Struggles
  3. 00:52Incompatible Trigger Techniques
  4. 01:21DA Trigger Mechanism Explained
  5. 02:26Should DA Dry Fire Translate?
  6. 02:55Why DA/SA Dry Fire Differs
  7. 03:50Bad Habits and Gun Differences
  8. 04:44Personal Experience with DA/SA
  9. 05:41Listener Question: Sympathetic Movement
  10. 06:17Community Support & Sympathetic Movement
  11. 07:03Focus on Trigger Hand: Speed Drill
  12. 08:34Loosen Firing Hand, Firm Support Hand
  13. 10:19Conclusion & Community Appreciation

Frequently Asked Questions

How does dry fire practice differ between DA/SA and striker-fired pistols?

DA/SA dry fire requires pulling the trigger all the way through the double-action stroke, then releasing partially to the single-action reset. This differs from striker-fired guns, which have a more consistent trigger pull. Improper DA/SA dry fire can lead to bad habits.

What is the 'prep and press' technique and why is it bad for DA/SA triggers?

The 'prep and press' technique involves pulling the trigger to the wall and then pressing the rest. On a DA/SA trigger, this is problematic because the double-action pull has increasing resistance, which can cause a visible disruption and affect sight alignment.

How can I improve trigger control and reduce sympathetic movement?

Focus solely on your firing hand. Practice a 'trigger control at speed' drill using a shot timer, pressing the trigger immediately on the beep. Loosen your firing hand grip (10-15%) while maintaining a firm support hand grip to isolate the trigger finger.

What is the best way to practice DA/SA trigger reset during dry fire?

For DA/SA dry fire, pull the trigger completely through the double-action stroke. Then, release the trigger just enough to feel the single-action reset engage. Re-press the trigger for the single-action shot. This simulates live fire accurately.

Related News

All News →

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Joel Park

View all →