Tips & Techniques: Handgun Reloads & Grip Relaxation

by
posted on April 30, 2020
** 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. **
relax.jpg

When working with a defensive handgun we often focus too much on speed, particularly when it comes time to conduct a reload. Being able to reload your handgun in a hurry is a good thing, but many shooters make a potentially fatal mistake in the process. If you have partially depleted your on-board ammunition supply and want to conduct a speed reload to top the gun off, do not drop the partially expended magazine until your support hand has located the fully loaded magazine that’s on your person. Always secure a fresh magazine before you eject the one in your gun because an almost-empty gun is still better than a completely empty gun.

New shooters tend to grip a handgun very tightly. It’s a good idea to hold on to a handgun firmly, but you don’t want to squeeze it like you are going to break it. Your thumb applies minimal enhancement to handgun grip strength, and very often—due to sympathetic squeeze response—it can move during the trigger press. This can alter the sight picture at the moment the trigger breaks. When shooting a handgun, relax the thumb and keep it relaxed as you press the trigger. 

Latest

Trend Monitoring
Trend Monitoring

4 Helpful Online Tools to Track Ammunition Prices

For those seeking the best possible prices on ammunition, a number of new tools have emerged to give firearm enthusiasts an edge up when it comes to feeding their guns on a budget.

Book Review: 2026 Traveler’s Guide to the Firearm Laws of the Fifty States

Newly updated for 2026, the 30th edition of the “Traveler’s Guide to the Firearm Laws of the Fifty States” is a must-have resource for those who travel often and therefore must navigate the patchwork maze of laws imposed in various localities.

5 Must-Have Ruger Mini-14 Accessories

In production since 1973, the Ruger Mini-14 has spawned a rather healthy aftermarket of parts and accessories. Here are five that you really can't live without if you're a true Mini-14 fan.

New For 2026: U.S. Palm Eye of the Storm (EOS) Suppressors

Earlier this year, U.S. Palm promised to offer its own line of firearms and suppressors. Now, its line of suppressors, the Eye of the Storm (EOS) series, is finally here.

Gun of the Week: Taylor's & Co. TC73

The Taylor's Firearms TC73 has classic lines and a classic appearance, but unlike other lever-actions, this one has a few unique features.

The Armed Citizen® June 26, 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.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.