March 30th, 2023
5minute read
Istarted shooting IPSC in 1984.
During a 32-year career in practical shooting, technology changed and so did we.
We moved to compensated 1911s, fat-frame 1911s and then to double-stacked polymer frame pistols.
The Springfield XD-M line of pistols uses interchangeable backstraps that allow you to customize the pistol’s fit to your hand. Image: John McKenzie
It almost felt like I was fighting the pistol as I tried to attain theproper grip.
Now I get paid to teach people how to shoot, amongst other things.
For all the years I was in competition, I focused on the WHAT and the HOW.
The author recommends using swappable backstraps to find the best fit for your hand. Here, he demonstrates how the proper grip allows his trigger finger to act independently.
When you teach, you’re gonna wanna think a lot about the WHY.
Why did I like the single-stack 1911 so much (like you need a reason, right?)
Your Choice
The right pistol needs to fit in your hand correctly.
The XD-M is highly customizable, shown here with different-sized backstraps and themagazine well upgrade kit. Image: John McKenzie
Get too small a pistol and it gets lost in your hand, making it very difficult to manipulate.
At 511 and 240 pounds, I am a decently sized guy.
I have a big, beefy hand and short, fat fingers.
According to the author, you should be able to place your finger on the trigger so that it presses straight to the rear.
Dad had long, piano player fingers, but he didnt pass that gene along.
So, my hands are what they are and I shoot better with a pistol that fits my hands.
If you cant properly hold your pistol, you cant shoot it as well as possible.
The author recommends keeping your index finger from contacting the side of the frame when shooting a pistol.
Go to forum thread
1911Series
XD-MElite Series
XD-MMagwell Conversion Kit, 9mm
