How (& Why) You Should Find Your Dominant Eye

Eye dominance matters for pistol shooters, too! Julie Golob explains the how and why.

posted on June 23, 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. **

At its heart, all shooting boils down to hand-eye coordination. For some of us, that hand-eye coordination is completely natural ... but for others, we often find that the bullets aren't hitting where we were looking. One of the reasons that can happen is eye dominance. 

Never heard of eye dominance? Well, if you're a handgun shooter, that's probably because most of the time people talk about eye dominance in terms of shotgun shooting. The truth is that it matters with pistols, too (just not quite as much). Just as most people have a dominant hand, most people have a dominant eye. The trouble is that they're not always on the same side. 

In this video from Smith & Wesson's GUNSMARTS series, pro shooter Julie Golob teaches you a simple way to determine which of your eyes is in control when you shoot. We dare you to watch it and not immediately try her trick! 

Latest

Smith Wesson Barrel Bag Lede
Smith Wesson Barrel Bag Lede

We Love It: Smith & Wesson Barrel Bag

Need to carry more than your car keys when you purse carry? This roomy CCW off-body option goes against convention by not requiring the extreme editing of your contents as you keep your personal safety in mind.

3 Great Reads for Firearms Instructors

For the holidays or anytime, these books make great gifts for any hunter, shooter, firearm instructor or trainer.

New Guns 2026: EAA MC 1911 250th Anniversary of U.S. Independence Special Edition Pistol 

This exclusive model celebrates the nation’s free spirit and the constitutional right to bear arms.

The Armed Citizen® Reload November 28, 2025

Go ahead and break and enter—but don't be surprised when your intended victim is armed and ready for you.

5 Reasons to Check Out Diamondback Firearms SDR Revolvers

These double-action revolvers provide a useful balance of size, capacity, features and caliber options.

5 Often Misunderstood Common Cartridge Terms

Whether you are a firearms instructor, competitive shooter or just practicing at the range, it is important to learn and use the correct terminology when referring to firearms, ammunition and their components.

 

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.