What’s your handicap? Overcoming shooting challenges

by Jan Wolbrecht | Jan 22, 2019 | Uncategorized

While you may be excited to talk about Golf, that wasn’t quite what I had in mind…

Last week we talked about “shooting handicaps”.  Do you have any concerns about your form  or stance when shooting?  Perhaps, you received a pistol for Christmas and are just starting your journey discovering the wonderful world of shooting . We hope by sharing our story, it will keep you on a straighter path; i.e. less costly mistakes.

Gun shopping is not like shopping most women are a custom to. For starters, you not likely to find this type of store at the Mall. So it may take a bit of planning for this type of shopping trip. Unlike things one may purchase at the mall, with guns once you buy it – it’s yours!

If you decide later that you don’t like the gun, there isn’t really a “Return Policy”.  The Return Policy is up to you and how you want to sell it. So be sure before you buy- unless you’re into collecting guns and your income stream can support your habit ?.

Several things I didn’t realize when I was “trying on” i.e gripping and handled the pistol at the store…. I didn’t really hold it as in anticipation of shooting it down range.

First, I felt really self-conscious about gun shopping and trying to hold the gun, pull the trigger while not pointing the barrel toward any of the other customers all around me.

Secondly, I inadvertently adjusted my grip (and or wrist) around the grip of the pistol so that I could pull the trigger. This is my handicap – small hands and I have since realized finding a firearm for me will prove to be challenging shopping experience. Limp wristing is a good way to get malfunctions

Now, not all of this was realized purely by going to the range. It was through classes and drills of some likely self defense scenarios, that all the pieces began fitting together and the picture became clearer. Another reason why training and practice are important.

Important finding (for me)- I cannot shoot a gun that has a double stack magazine. Not without having a malfunction. A double stack magazine means the grip is going to be bigger. “Double stack” refers to how the bullets line up within the magazine and typically holds about 13-15 rounds. This is good in one sense. More bullets = better protection, right? Also, it makes the gun heavier and therefore, less recoil, which is ideal. But for me, it means more malfunctions. Some might argue this is a good drill to work on clearing malfunctions ?.

So, are you a double stack or single stack gun owner? That depends on YOU.

Some guns have interchangeable back straps that can help for smaller hands. However, you still need to have enough (of your index) finger to pull the trigger.

From the graphic above, you can see how the placement of your trigger finger effects the placement of the bullet on the target. The slightest adjustments can have less desirable results.

So, when shopping for a gun, remember to consider placement of your trigger finger, grip and your wrist. It’s not just about being able to pull the trigger… you want to hit what you aim for. (Important to remember ever bullet has a name on it).

Stay tuned for more –