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

David Keene Obituary F
David Keene Obituary F

Remembering Past NRA President David A. Keene

David A. Keene, a prominent conservative leader and NRA President from 2011 to 2013, died on March 8, 2026, at 80 years old, from pancreatic cancer.

Semi-Automatic Bans Are Unconstitutional

If the logical application of the rule of law means anything in this constitutional republic, bans on massively popular semi-automatic firearms will be found unconstitutional.

New Handloading Helpers: The Latest Reloading Gear From RCBS

When Hodgdon Powder Company took over RCBS in 2024, company leaders said positive change was coming. By looking at the new products RCBS introduced in 2026, it’s clear they were right.

North-South Skirmish Association to Hold 153rd National Competition in May

At the North-South Skirmish Association's 153rd National Competition, members will compete in live-fire matches with original and reproduction muskets, carbines, revolvers, mortars and cannons.

Review: Heckler & Koch G36 .22 LR

What was once a service rifle for a brave new world all those wasted years ago is now running free as a rimfire option for armed citizens.

Steyr's At Series Handguns: All-Metal & Modular

Designed as a collaboration between Steyr Arms and Arex Defense, the At series of handguns are built on metal frames and have several user-customizable features not seen in other offerings.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.