Intermediate Pistol

Strong Hand Only Drill

Used in: Defensive

Source: Common training standard

5s
Par Time
7 yd
Distance
5
Rounds
5
Reps
25
Total Rounds

One-handed shooting is the most undertrained skill in the pistol world. Whether it’s an injury, carrying something in your support hand, or retaining a weapon during a struggle — the ability to shoot accurately with one hand is not optional. It’s essential.

This drill is straightforward: from the holster, draw with your strong hand only and fire five rounds at a standard target at 7 yards. Par time is 5.0 seconds. All rounds must be in the scoring zone.

The challenge is managing recoil without your support hand. Your grip must be locked, your wrist rigid, and your trigger press clean enough that the gun doesn’t shift between shots. Most shooters see their group size double when they go one-handed. This drill closes that gap through focused repetition.

Range Setup

Setup

Single USPSA/IPSC target at 7 yards. Holstered start. Draw and fire with strong hand only — support hand stays out of the way (behind back or at chest).

Scoring

All 5 rounds in the A-zone. Track time. Any hit outside A-zone = failed rep. Record group size for progress tracking.

Tips

Cant the gun slightly inward (about 10-15 degrees) to align with your natural arm position. Crush the grip — this isn't the time for finesse.

Progression

Once comfortable at 7 yards, extend to 10. Add weak-hand-only reps as a separate drill. Alternate strong/weak each session.

Video