Drawing From the Ground

posted on February 21, 2013
** 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. **
rackley2015_fs.jpg (1)

The ideal solution to a bad situation is to be aware and get out of the area. The next best is to be aware and face the situation on both feet, with your gun in your hand. But even the best laid plans can fall to the wayside during a life and death struggle.

You might be caught unaware and end up on the floor, defeding your life. In this situation, you must be able to draw your handgun from a compromising position, and to do this effectively under stress, you must practice--dry practice, of course.

If you’re lying on your back, and you carry strong side, you will not be able to reach your gun unless you roll to your weak side, allowing your elbow to curl back so your hand can secure a shooting grip. A pocket holster has the same deficiencies, and requires the same move. An ankle holster provides an easier reach from your back, and even raises your foot to defend against the attacker, but can be tricky to access if lying on your stomach. A shoulder holster also works OK if you’re on your back, but be nearly unreachable if your are face down.

Regardless of how you carry, knowing how to draw from any position can save your life. So, unload your gun and try drawing from the many positions on the ground that you could be forced into, and you’ll be ready if you just happen to hit the ground.

Latest

Smith Wesson Model 29 10 Facts 1
Smith Wesson Model 29 10 Facts 1

10 Things You (Probably) Didn't Know About The Smith & Wesson Model 29

Without a doubt, the Smith & Wesson Model 29 is one of the 20th century’s most shootable, collectible "superstar" revolvers. Here are a few little-known facts about the gun.

Packable Punch: Discreet Ways to Carry More Firepower

While folding and takedown firearms chambered for full-power rifle cartridges may be niche defensive tools, the dark situations in which they shine brightest aren’t going away anytime soon.

Southpaw Solution: Ruger Introduces Left-Handed American Gen II Ranch Rifles

Traditionally, Ruger has offered a range of left-handed rifle models for the southpaws among us, and now, the company's Gen II American rifles are available in a left-handed variant, starting with the Ranch models.

Gun of the Week: Kimber 1911 DS Warrior LW

In 2026, Kimber developed its 1911 DS Warrior, an American-made, double-stack design that is intended to be an affordable entry point into Kimber's double-stack handgun line.

The Armed Citizen® April 24, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Spin Difference: The Impact of Barrel Twist Rates on Terminal Performance

When most shooters think of rifling-twist rates, they mostly think of rifles with their high BC projectiles, but the rpm of a bullet also plays a part in terminal performance.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.