One-Handed Shooting

by
posted on March 8, 2015
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
sinews.jpg (7)

Most people prefer to do what they are good at, and tend to spend more time doing things that are easy versus difficult. Therefore, most people perform the bulk of their handgun training using both hands to shoot their firearm. But what if you are using a handheld flashlight? Or holding a baby? Maybe you could be trying to control a small child or your significant other? What if you're opening a door or even steering your vehicle? What if you could have your dog on a leash? There is also the chance one hand is trying to protect you from blows or keeping an attacker at bay while you draw your handgun. One hand or arm could be unusable due to injury either during the fight or due to a pre-existing condition. So, like with all training, prepare now while you have time—don't wait until the fight has started.

We need to spend a part of our range and dry-fire sessions practicing to use our firearms with only one hand. This includes both strong and support hands. Practice getting the gun out from concealment with either hand. Spend time working through reloads and malfunctions. There are a variety of techniques that apply to all of this, and each person should determine which one is best for them based on their type of handgun, carry style and position, hand size, skill level, etc.

I strongly suggest spending a lot of time working through the different techniques with dummy ammo before you try live fire. Get a knowledgeable friend to watch, or at least video yourself so you can identify possible safety issues and help smooth out the more inefficient techniques.

One thing many shooters have experienced is the importance of a good, solid grip. Most people don't realize how much the support hand helps manage recoil and keep the sights on target until it is taken away. The preferred method would be to attend a training class from a reputable instructor, so you can learn a good method under proper supervision. Then you will be a little more ready to defend yourself when the time comes.

Latest

Winchester Model 1907 
Winchester Model 1907 

The Classics: Winchester Model 1907 

Semi-automatic rifles firing intermediate calibers and feeding from removable-box magazines have been around a lot longer than you might think.

Martin Tuason: 1974 - 2025

The president and CEO of Rock Island Armory and Armscor passed away last week.

First Look: MDT Lightweight Titanium Muzzle Brake

Keep your shots on target without packing on extra weight.

Beyond Being an Average Shooter

Here’s why standard deviation matters in defensive shooting.

Building A Bolt-Action Rifle

This Bergara barreled-action build strikes a balance.

Comfortable and Reliable Revolver Carry

A wheelgun can be a very versatile firearm.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.