It may seem so “basic”, but it’s one of the top questions I get as a former Navy SEAL instructor and firearms trainer…
What’s the best way to grip a handgun for maximum control of the weapon and accuracy?
Good question, because if you aren’t gripping your firearm correctly, your rounds are going to be all over the place – especially under the duress of a real attack where your adrenaline is through the roof.
Here are 5 of the top “pistol grip mistakes” I see even the most experienced shooters making…
Video Cheatsheet
Navy SEAL Shares Top 5 "How To Grip A Pistol" Mistakes Even Experienced Shooters Make...

1. Get Your Arm Behind Your Gun
Why: Positioning your arm directly behind the gun provides essential support and stability.
Failing to do so may increase recoil impact, leading to decreased accuracy and control.
How: When gripping the pistol, ensure that your arm is in line with the firearm, directly providing support.
This minimizes the impact of recoil, enhancing stability and control during shooting.
2. Get Your Grip Up Higher
Why: Positioning your hand as high as possible reduces the impact of recoil, ensuring better control of the pistol.
Failing to do so increases the chances of the muzzle rising during recoil.
How: Raise your hand as high as possible on the firearm, focusing particularly on the beavertail.
This minimizes the space available for recoil impact and increases your control over the weapon.
3. Get More Use Out Of Your Support Hand
Why: You want your hands to own as much of the gun’s “real estate” as possible or you’ll see decreased stability and control when you’re shooting.
How: To fill the available space effectively, position your support hand at a 45-degree angle in the gap where your shooting hand is placed when gripping your pistol, .
4. Get Your Arm Behind Your Gun
Why: Keeping both thumbs forward improves accuracy and control during shooting.
Incorrect thumb positioning may lead to inconsistencies and decreased precision while aiming and firing.
How: Maintain a grip where both of your thumbs are pointed directly forward toward the target, ensuring better alignment and control while shooting.
5. Get Your Arm Behind Your Gun
Why: Consistently applying a strong and firm grip ensures stability and consistency during shooting.
Inconsistent grip strength may lead to variations in control and stability, affecting shooting accuracy.
How: Maintain a strong and firm grip on the pistol, utilizing 100% of your grip strength.
This consistency ensures stability and enhances control during shooting, resulting in improved accuracy.
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I have a revolver that came with an oversized grip. My pocket knife slowly whittled it to have a thumb shelf and fit my hand contour. Sanded and varnished it. My favorite thing to shoot.
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