How to Draw From a Holster

If you carry a pistol in a holster for self defense or competitive shooting, the proper drawing technique is critical to your success. According to Robert Farago of The Truth About Guns, under the pressure of competition or facing an assailant "your best draw will become your worst draw...And if you blow your draw, your shot placement will be just as bad." Practicing your draw from a holster will help you get it right when it matters.

Things You'll Need

  • Belt
  • Holster
  • Pistol
  • Ammunition
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put on the belt, holster and pistol.

    • 2

      Stand facing the target. Your feet should be at about shoulder width. Lean forward slightly at the ankles with arms straight down at your sides.

    • 3

      Raise your draw hand to grasp the pistol as high on the grip as possible without placing your hand directly behind the slide. Your grip should be similar to a handshake. At the same time you should place your non-draw hand flat against your torso.

    • 4

      Slide the pistol out of the holster, keeping your trigger finger outside the trigger guard.

    • 5

      Raise the pistol so it is perpendicular with the ground and pointed toward the target. As the pistol reaches this position bring your non-draw hand into contact with the pistol.

    • 6

      Extend both arms towards the target and raise the pistol to eye level.

    • 7

      Look down the pistol sights and align the sights with the target.

    • 8

      Place your finger on the trigger and fire the pistol.

    • 9

      Remove your finger from the trigger and put your non-draw hand flat against your torso.

    • 10

      Holster your pistol.