How to Grip a Pistol the Right Way
In order to be a good shot, you must learn how to grip a pistol the right way. This article only applies to semi-automatic pistols. Revolvers have a different grip, so we won’t be discussing that in this article.
There are only a couple of things that will impact your shot more than an improper grip. One could argue that only Sight Alignment/ Sight Picture and Aiming will affect you more. You can learn more Sight Picture and Sight Alignment in this article How to Properly Aim a Pistol using Sight Alignment (12thgun.com)
So why is grip so important? How you hold the pistol impacts a lot of where your shot ends up. It impacts your natural point of aim, trigger pull, so much more. Below you will see some pictures and step by step descriptions of how to grip a pistol the right way.
Notice the V of the hand high in the back strap
The Vee in your thumb and forefinger on your strong hand should be high and tight in the back strap. Notice how the fingers are all on the opposite side of the pistol grip when you start.
Strong hand thumb is high on the frame
The Index finger of your strong hand should be straight and against the frame until ready to fire. The remaining 3 fingers should grip the front strap of your pistol with equal and consistent pressure to rear. This will keep the pistol in a steady position until you can get your support hand in place.
Meaty portion of support thumb placed onto side of pistol grip
As the support hand comes into place you should place the meaty portion of the thumb on the side grip. Notice the meaty portions of both thumbs are about to contact each other and the grip.
Notice both thumbs on the same side
The support hand should close with firm pressure with all 4 fingers below the trigger guard. BOTH thumbs should be on the same side of the pistol. If you have your off-hand thumb behind the slide when the slide pushes back after the shot it will hurt. The slide will push back and likely cut you bad or you’re your thumbnail. Both thumbs should be high on the frame and touching the frame, but NOT the slide. Touching the slide can cause a malfunction when the pistol cycles.
Support hand fingers overlap strong hand fingers and both thumbs high and on the same side of the frame
The reverse side of the pistol shows the support fingers wrapped around the strong hand fingers. Notice how the support hand is NOT under the strong hand. It is on top of the strong hand a wrapped around.
Now you know how to properly grip a semi-automatic pistol. Follow us on Facebook 12th Gun LTC and Instruction | Facebook for the latest articles and updates.
Y’all stay safe out there!
