What Is the RIGHT Way to Hold a Handgun? (How To Grip And Shoot Your Handgun)

Published on June 23, 2021
Duration: 10:08

This comprehensive guide, presented by Kevin Michalowski, Director of Content for USCCA, details the correct techniques for gripping and shooting a handgun. It covers fundamental principles of firearm nomenclature, proper grip formation for both right and left-handed shooters, trigger finger discipline, sight alignment, and ready positions. The instruction emphasizes safe handling practices and the importance of a secure grip for accuracy and reliable firearm function, utilizing a SIRT pistol for safe practice.

Quick Summary

Master the correct handgun grip for accuracy and reliability. Place your dominant hand high on the tang, form an 'L', and wrap fingers around the grip. Your support hand fills the space, ensuring all fingers contact the grip. Maintain thumbs forward along the frame. Achieve sight alignment by centering the front sight in the rear notch and execute a smooth trigger press.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Proper Firearm Grip
  2. 00:08USCCA Mission and Training Philosophy
  3. 00:33Handgun Grip Fundamentals and SIRT Pistol
  4. 01:21Firearm Nomenclature Explained
  5. 02:33Grip Mistakes to Avoid (Front Strap)
  6. 02:58Understanding Sight Alignment
  7. 03:29Master Firing Grip (Right-Handed)
  8. 04:56Establishing the Two-Handed Dominant Grip
  9. 05:45Safe Ready Positions
  10. 06:10Bringing Gun to Eye and Trigger Press
  11. 07:09Follow-up Shots and Recoil Management
  12. 08:05One-Handed Shooting Techniques
  13. 08:35Left-Handed Firing Grip
  14. 09:29Grip Techniques to Avoid

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct way to hold a handgun for shooting?

A proper handgun grip involves placing your dominant hand high on the tang, forming an 'L' with your hand, and wrapping three fingers around the grip. Your support hand then fills the space, wrapping all four fingers around the front strap for a secure, two-handed hold. Maintain thumbs pointing forward along the frame.

How do you ensure accuracy when shooting a handgun?

Accuracy starts with a proper grip for stability and reliable function. Crucially, you must achieve correct sight alignment by centering the front sight in the rear sight notch and keeping them level. Then, execute a smooth, straight-to-the-rear trigger press without disturbing the sights.

What is a SIRT pistol used for?

A SIRT pistol (Shot Indicating Resetting Trigger) is a training tool that mimics the size and weight of real firearms. It allows for safe dry-fire practice of grip, trigger control, and sight alignment without using live ammunition, featuring a laser indicator for trigger press accuracy.

What are common mistakes to avoid when gripping a handgun?

Avoid wrapping your support hand's index finger around the trigger guard's front strap, as this can pull shots off target. Also, steer clear of unconventional 'Hollywood' grips like 'tea cups' or wrist grabs, which compromise control and stability.

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