The Path to an Efficient AIWB Draw. Part 3: The Cheater Grip and Hands Relaxed.

Published on October 17, 2025
Duration: 5:30

This video details the 'cheater grip' technique for an efficient AIWB (Appendix Inside the Waistband) draw, focusing on garment manipulation when hands are below the waist. It emphasizes avoiding telegraphing the draw by subtly prepping the garment and then executing a rapid draw stroke. An alternative method for situations where garment prep is not allowed is also demonstrated.

Quick Summary

The 'cheater grip' is an AIWB draw technique that involves subtly pre-manipulating your cover garment to speed up firearm access. This method, when executed discreetly with a pinch grip, avoids telegraphing and can be 0.5 to 1.0 second faster than a standard draw.

Chapters

  1. 00:06Introduction to AIWB Draw Series
  2. 00:10Hands Below Waist & Cheater Grip
  3. 00:21Origin of the Cheater Grip
  4. 00:35Obstacle: Removing Cover Garment
  5. 00:41The Cheater Grip Explained
  6. 00:53Avoiding Telegraphing the Draw
  7. 01:03Setting Up the Garment Prep
  8. 01:14Garment Shelf vs. Pinch Grip
  9. 01:32Examples: Spencer Keepers & Gabe White
  10. 02:08Subtle Garment Pinch Technique
  11. 02:20Executing the Draw Stroke
  12. 02:30Establishing the Claw Grip
  13. 02:39Firearm & Gear Showcase (Walther PDP)
  14. 03:16Recap: Cheater Grip Draw Sequence
  15. 03:31Full Speed Draw Demonstration
  16. 03:44Addressing 'Cheating' Accusations
  17. 04:04Applications: USPSA & Competition
  18. 04:19Alternative: No Garment Prep Draw
  19. 04:34No Prep Draw Sequence
  20. 04:56Speed Comparison: Cheater Grip vs. No Prep
  21. 05:07Conclusion & Next Steps

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'cheater grip' in AIWB draw?

The 'cheater grip' is a technique for Appendix Inside the Waistband (AIWB) draws where the shooter subtly manipulates their cover garment before initiating the draw. This pre-preparation helps speed up access to the firearm by removing the obstacle of the clothing.

How do you avoid telegraphing your AIWB draw?

To avoid telegraphing your AIWB draw, use a subtle pinch grip with your thumb and index finger on your shirt at the garment prep point. Avoid overt movements. If your shirt naturally creates a 'shelf,' you can utilize that, but always aim for discreet preparation.

What is the claw grip in handgun technique?

The claw grip is a technique where the middle knuckle of your firing hand aligns with the middle knuckle of the pistol's grip. This method is often used during a draw stroke to establish a firm, controlled grip on the firearm quickly and efficiently.

How much faster is the 'cheater grip' draw compared to a standard draw?

The 'cheater grip' technique, which involves pre-manipulating the cover garment, is estimated to be 0.5 to 1.0 second faster than a draw where the garment is not prepped. This time saving comes from eliminating the initial step of clearing the clothing.

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