How To Assume a Good Handgun Shooting Stance & Grip

In this episode of Smith & Wesson's GUNSMARTS series, pro shooter Julie Golob demonstrates the hows and whys of a good stance.

posted on November 22, 2021
** 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. **

Most of the fundamentals of shooting are essentially functions of hand/eye coordination, and most of them apply equally for women and men. However, there are some elements of shooting that go way beyond your contact with the gun's trigger and grip. Specifically, what about your shooting stance? Is the proper shooting stance different for women than it is for men?

In this video from Smith & Wesson's excellent GUNSMARTS series, pro shooter Julie Golob illuminates her stance on ... stance. Although there are several different very specific "poses" that shooters will assume (you'll hear terms like Weaver stance and Isosceles stance bandied about), your primary concern is stability and recoil control. What you're trying to do with your stance is to bring your weight up onto the balls of your feet, lean forward into the gun and use your body's weight and construction to absorb the pistol's recoil. 

For the most part, this looks very similar for women as it does for men. That said, a woman's body is almost always going to have a lower center of gravity than a man's. That's not a bad thing at all; you can think of it as Nature's way of making us stable, and it may actually make assuming a good stance easier for you. Take a look at this terrific video for more surprisingly intuitive and easy-to-assume pointers on your best shooting stance and grip!

Latest

Smith Wesson Performance Center Shield X Carry Comp
Smith Wesson Performance Center Shield X Carry Comp

New Guns 2025: Performance Center M&P9 Shield X Carry Comp

Engineered to enhance the M&P Shield X platform, the new PC Shield X Carry Comp is an ideal option for those looking for a premium sub-compact concealed carry pistol.

Save the Date: NRA Women's Leadership 19th Annual Forum Luncheon & Auction

We hope you’ll make plans to join us in Houston in April 2026 for this unforgettable gathering of likeminded women!

Uniquely American: The Pronghorn

The last surviving member of its family, the American pronghorn is truly one of the most unique animals we hunt.

Defensive Mindset: One N' Done vs. Mag Dumps

How many shots should be fired in a defensive situation? Read on to find out!

Deer Season Prep: 4 Things to Take to the Gun Range

If you are heading to the range, you should have the necessary tools to ensure your rifle is ready for opening day.

The Versatile .270 Winchester Turns 100

Now considered a serious and much-loved rifle caliber, the evolution of this cartridge has been anything but smooth.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.