From the hands of law enforcement officers to the grips of self-defense practitioners, the handgun remains a symbol of power and protection. And while Hollywood often portrays the gun-wielding protagonist in dramatic, one-handed stances, those serious about marksmanship know that accuracy is an art form—one that demands technique, practice, and a steady hand.

For the military tech and politics enthusiasts, who value precision and expertise, mastering the art of holding a handgun is a critical skill. Here’s a breakdown of the essential techniques to ensure maximum accuracy in every shot.

The foundation of accurate shooting starts with using a two-handed grip, a method known as the “Modern Technique.” It has long been the standard for police and defense training, primarily because it offers greater control of the firearm. As one grips the handgun with their dominant hand and supports with the other, the arms are held straight out, minimizing shaking and maintaining a steady aim at the target.

Selecting the appropriate grip strength is crucial—too tight, and you induce tremors; too loose, and the firearm shifts upon recoil. To find that Goldilocks zone of grip pressure, shooters should experiment until discovering a balance that allows for consistent and stable shots.

Hand placement matters. Rather than intertwining fingers, the support hand should cup the bottom of the dominant hand and grip for enhanced stability. This reduces hand shake and gives a solid foundation for the dominant hand to rest upon.

Understanding the dynamics of force can aid in accuracy as well. A combination of pushing forward with the dominant hand while pulling back with the support hand stabilizes the handgun, lessening wobble, and assisting in aligning shots more accurately.

Alignment is more than a mere suggestion—it’s a requirement for precision. The proper orientation has the barrel’s top facing upward, aligning it with the shooter’s forearm. This instinctively allows for better point-and-shoot accuracy, along with more efficient recoil management.

Breathing technique is often underrated but profoundly influential. Controlled breathing stabilizes the body and, in turn, the handgun. Inhaling deeply and exhaling slowly before taking a shot can mean the difference between a hit or a miss. Holding one’s breath while pulling the trigger maximizes stability.

Speaking of pulling the trigger, a slow, steady pressure is key to maintaining aim.

Jerky or rapid trigger pulls can result in hand shift and accuracy loss. The advice is to practice, to build muscle memory until the motion is smooth and natural.

All these techniques cumulate into a shooting form that is both efficient and precise. Whether at the range, in competition, or in a defensive situation, the principles of holding a handgun correctly are timeless.

And as any experienced shooter will tell you, it’s not just about hitting the target—it’s about hitting it accurately, consistently, and safely.

For those who respect the power of firearms and the responsibility that comes with them, understanding the full breadth of what it means to handle a handgun correctly is a pursuit of both skill and knowledge.

Mastery in this craft not only enhances personal safety but also pays homage to the storied history of the handgun in military and defense contexts. So, take these tips, head to the range, and aim not just for the target, but for excellence in every shot.

Relevant articles:
– 7 Tips For How to Hold a Handgun for Maximum Accuracy, Underwater Kinetics
– How to Hold a Pistol—the Right Way, Field & Stream