Practical Pistol Show 34 - Dat Double Action

Published on April 27, 2015
Duration: 22:56

This discussion from the Practical Pistol Show debunks the technique of starting the double-action trigger press early in the draw stroke, as proposed in a 2013 Modern Service Weapons article. The panel, including experienced shooters Ben Stoeger and Matt Hopkins, argues that this method, which suggests the hammer should fall at or near full extension, is overly complicated and potentially detrimental. They emphasize that most competitive shooters do not employ this technique and that focusing on a smooth, deliberate trigger press during the press-out phase is more effective.

Quick Summary

Experienced shooters Ben Stoeger and Matt Hopkins critique the early double-action trigger press technique, arguing it's overly complicated and less effective than a smooth press initiated later in the draw. They advise training with your intended competition firearm rather than a deliberately difficult one.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Guests
  2. 01:34Article on Outdated DA/SA Techniques
  3. 02:03Debunking Early Trigger Press Method
  4. 04:39Critique of Leverage in Trigger Pull
  5. 07:54Observing Early Trigger Prepping in Competition
  6. 09:05Personal Experience with Trigger Prepping
  7. 10:24Article's Technique Re-evaluation
  8. 11:28Complexity of Early Trigger Prep
  9. 12:25Historical Context: Ernest Langdon
  10. 14:04Shooting Difficult Guns for Improvement
  11. 15:16Why Training with a Crappier Gun is Discouraged
  12. 16:31Impact of Difficult Triggers vs. Sights
  13. 19:21Advice: Shoot Your Best Gun
  14. 20:25Concluding Thoughts and Guest Links

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the proposed technique for double-action/single-action triggers discussed in the 2013 Modern Service Weapons article?

The article suggests starting the double-action trigger press early in the draw stroke, around the time the hands come together, with the goal of the hammer falling at or slightly before full extension. This aims to integrate the trigger pull with the gun's movement.

Why do experienced shooters like Ben Stoeger and Matt Hopkins disagree with the early trigger press technique for DA/SA guns?

They argue the technique is overly complicated, doesn't offer a significant speed advantage, and can negatively impact control. Most competitive shooters focus on a smooth trigger press initiated later in the press-out for better accuracy and consistency.

Is it beneficial to train with a more difficult firearm for a season to improve skills?

Generally, no. While a slightly heavier trigger might build finger strength, using significantly worse sights or a much more difficult platform is discouraged. It's usually more effective to train with the firearm you intend to compete with.

What is the consensus on using 'crappier' gun components for training?

A slightly heavier trigger might help develop trigger control. However, using significantly worse sights is detrimental as it hinders visual input crucial for accuracy. The overall consensus is to train with equipment that allows for optimal performance development.

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