I like to break the draw process into a four-part operation, in this form you will cut down on excess waste of movement and if need be, can start firing from position two.  I have broken down the proper draw into these four steps:

Position One – The Purchase

Once a threat is perceived and you decide you are going to draw and shoot, you orient your stance toward the threat and begin your draw sequence. Quickly, your dominant hand moves to form its grip on the pistol grip; this is the only chance you will have to get a proper grip on your pistol out-of-the-gate. Index with the web of the dominant hand high on the backstrap (set your dominant hand as high as you can on the backstrap that curves under the rear of the slide), extend the trigger finger straight and then grip the pistol with the three lower fingers. Refer to Figure 1.

If need be, your trigger finger will activate the push button to release the pistol for level 2 retention holsters at this time. The thumb may also disengage the thumb break on the holster and then finish forming the grip as you begin to pull the pistol from the holster for level 2 or 3 holsters. The support hand is drawn to the body’s centerline and is open to receive the pistol with fingers extended and joined, oriented 45 degrees down. Move only what you must to accomplish these steps of the draw process. Economy of effort as well as economy of motion allow you to do this quickly and efficiently. Once you are comfortable with the process, this step can be done as fast as possible as it is not a fine-motor function. This step is conducted at the fastest speed you can correctly do it.

Position Two – The Marriage

Your dominant hand has its proper grip on the pistol and you draw the pistol from the holster. As soon as the pistol is clear from the holster, it is immediately pointed in the direction of the threat (refer to Figure 2) or while moving to the centerline of the body to meet the support hand. When both hands come together this is called the marriage.

The trigger finger can begin to take up slack in the trigger if you need to fire from the position of retention or an advancing threat at close range. As soon as you are pointing the muzzle at the threat, you can take the pistol off safe (if equipped). As you move to position three you may orient the pistol under your dominant eye to assist in picking up the front sight faster. Refer to Figure 3. The speed of this step is also as fast as possible once properly learned. It is also important to note here, the importance of understanding eye dominance; and knowing if you are either right or left eye dominant. About 95% of people share their eye dominance with their strong hand, either right-handed and is right-eyed dominant or left-handed and is left-eyed dominant. Only 5% of the population is cross eyed dominant which means you are right-handed but your left eye is dominant or you are left-handed and your right eye is dominant.

Position Three – The Presentation

Your dominant hand begins to complete the two-handed grip and the muzzle is directed toward your threat. Refer to Figure 3. In this position, the finger is still off the trigger unless you intend to begin shooting. If the threat is close you may begin to engage from this position as you complete your presentation. This is the preferred ready position, with your finger off the trigger. The upper body should be semi-relaxed; watch tensing your shoulder muscles. Also, do not hunch your head forward; keep it naturally erect to a slight bit forward (keep it comfortable).

NOTE: From position three to four, the slack and tension are taken out of the double-action pistols to the point you feel the ‘wall’. At full presentation is the point when the shot should break and you should be trying to attain great accuracy and speed.

NOTE: The pressing of the hands and pistol forward from position three to position four is at a medium speed (allowing you time to take up slack on the trigger and acquire the sight picture as desired). Smoothness must be emphasized to time and take the shot correctly at full extension—the trigger press, movement, sight alignment and sight picture all come together in harmony at full extension with a properly placed shot.

Position Four – Full Presentation (Fire)

This position is referred to as full presentation, and your most accurate shooting will be done from this position. Refer to Figures 4 & 5. If time permits, review your shooting fundamentals before the shot. Once the engagement is complete, remove your finger from the trigger only if the threat has been dealt with; remember to reset the trigger in your follow-through if the engagement is not complete and follow up shots are required.

BEYOND PAPER: For L.E.O.’s, Military, and lawful conceal carriers; After firing in position four you should be in the habit of scanning and assessing the situation; you should lower your muzzle one to two inches and look about utilizing your two eyes and your muzzle by turning your head, scanning left and then right and then back to center. See and analyze what is happening. This goes back to the O.O.D.A. loop (observe, orient, decide, act) and is important you look so you break the tunnel vision that is common in high-stress situations. When you bring the firearm back to position three, check the condition of your firearm (ensure it is in battery), de-cock and/engage the safety on your pistol, and then look over your shoulders to check behind you; this puts you in a good position if you must turn and engage or fight. To rest, go to the low-ready position or back to position three of the draw cycle. Tactical (or as I prefer – Practical) Pistol Shooting provides ‘real-world’ insight for anyone who carries a concealed pistol for self-defence.

After all, it is the foundation on which IDPA is built on. Build your foundation on solid fundamentals and follow these tips to improve your training.

See you on the Range!

DISCLAIMER: All photos taken for the purposes of this article were performed while the firearm was unloaded on a cold range.