For a new shooter to understand what trigger control is, I find it helpful to break it down into a 5 step count down. The SIRT training pistol is ideal for this exercise, but using your own gun is important to learn your trigger. Every gun will have a different feel about the trigger, but the process is the same.

5- Finger on trigger
4- Take up the slack
3- Meet resistance
2- Continue to press with firm and steady pressure
1- Trigger breaks
To learn trigger reset and follow through, steps 3-2-1 are essential. THE IMPORTANT PART....after step 1 (trigger break) DO NOT RELEASE THE TRIGGER. Follow through by releasing the trigger to the point where you hear or feel a ‘click’ which is actually step 3. Then repeat steps 2-1, reset to 3, 2-1, reset to 3, 2-1. Make sense? Biggest mistake is letting your finger bounce off the trigger, releasing it to the normal position, aka step 5.
To really become one with the trigger, I encourage some dry fire repetitions. Close your eyes and just feel the process happen.
To really become one with the trigger, I encourage some dry fire repetitions. Close your eyes and just feel the process happen.
- If using a SIRT the trigger will automatically function
- When using your real gun DO NOT RELEASE THE TRIGGER, keep it pulled tightly to the rear. While keeping the trigger depressed, rack the slide so you can experience the exercise the way it is intended.