Master Trigger Control With Dry Practice, See Big Results

In this episode of Smith & Wesson's GUNSMARTS, Julie Golob explains the importance of trigger control ... and how easy it is to learn.

posted on September 14, 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. **

The key to accuracy with any firearm is hand-eye coordination, and that's why we spend so much time talking about how to use your sights and where you should focus your eyes while shooting. It's important, however, not to lose sight (see what we did there?) of the tactile component of accuracy. Specifically, the way your trigger responds to pressure in your hands is a critical part of your accuracy downrange.

In this episode of Smith & Wesson's GUNSMARTS, pro shooter and Second Amendment ambassador Julie Golob demonstrates how to use dry-fire practice to familiarize yourself with your gun's trigger. (Just remember to remove all ammunition from the gun, magazine and practice area, and observe all of the rules of gun safety ... no exceptions and no excuses!)

As Golob explains, there are a number of factors that you're feeling for: How much takeup does the trigger have? How much must you pull through the tension? How long does it take the trigger to reset? You'll also find yourself mastering those processes almost without meaning to ... that's the secret of dry-fire practice done right!

Latest

Jessie Harrison 2026 Uspsa Race Gun Nationals Lede
Jessie Harrison 2026 Uspsa Race Gun Nationals Lede

Team Hornady Shooter Jessie Harrison Wins USPSA Race Gun Nationals

The victory marks Harrison's 26th USPSA Ladies National Title.

The Armed Citizen® Reload August 28, 2026

Some habits are hard to break—especially for criminals. These armed moms gave them a little incentive.

Buy, Store, Ship: Ammunition Depot Launches AmmoVault

Too much ammo? Never! Solving your ammo storage problems, AmmoVault offers a new way to buy, store and ship ammunition over time.

ATF Director Cekada to Headline Women For Gun Rights 2026 National Summit Gala Panel

Director Cekada will be joined by retired professional MMA fighter Michelle Waterson-Gomez and social media personality Vanessa Rosa.

The First Thing You Should do with your Concealed-Carry Firearm

The short version of what you need to do to carry comes down to a few simple steps—and one big thing that every person who carries should do first.

New Guns 2026: Beretta APX A1 Ported

The new model was engineered to provide enhanced control, faster follow-up shots and confident manipulation.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.