Yes, I’m Changing My Grip When Shooting Pistols

Published on January 8, 2026
Duration: 1:19

Lucas Botkin, demonstrating high-speed shooting proficiency, explains and demonstrates a modified pistol grip technique. This involves "floating" the support hand thumb off the firearm to achieve more consistent muzzle rise and fall during recoil. He emphasizes practicing this technique with focused drills to build muscle memory and improve accuracy under speed, particularly for right-handed shooters prone to pushing the pistol right when tensing.

Quick Summary

Lucas Botkin demonstrates an advanced pistol grip technique called the "floating thumb," where the support hand thumb does not contact the frame. This method aims to reduce the impact of shoulder tension on the firearm during recoil, promoting more consistent muzzle rise and fall for improved shot accuracy, especially during rapid fire.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Shooting Demonstration
  2. 00:09Grip Change Announcement
  3. 00:16Floating Thumb Technique Explained
  4. 00:35Practice and Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the "floating thumb" technique in pistol shooting?

The "floating thumb" technique involves intentionally not touching the pistol frame with your support hand's thumb. This aims to prevent tension in the shoulder and arm from transferring to the gun, leading to more consistent muzzle rise and fall during recoil.

How does Lucas Botkin suggest improving pistol recoil control?

Lucas Botkin suggests modifying the support hand grip by allowing the thumb to "float" off the frame. This technique helps isolate the pistol from shoulder tension, promoting a more stable and consistent recoil impulse for improved accuracy.

What pistol is shown in the video demonstrating the grip change?

The video prominently features a Glock 17 MOS pistol, a popular model known for its versatility in various shooting disciplines. The grip technique discussed is applicable to many semi-automatic pistols.

Why is it important to adjust your pistol grip?

Adjusting your pistol grip, like the "floating thumb" technique, is crucial for managing recoil, improving shot consistency, and mitigating common shooting errors caused by body tension. Developing proper grip mechanics enhances overall accuracy and control.

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