Drawing From the Ground

posted on February 21, 2013
rackley2015_fs.jpg (1)

The ideal solution to a bad situation is to be aware and get out of the area. The next best is to be aware and face the situation on both feet, with your gun in your hand. But even the best laid plans can fall to the wayside during a life and death struggle.

You might be caught unaware and end up on the floor, defeding your life. In this situation, you must be able to draw your handgun from a compromising position, and to do this effectively under stress, you must practice--dry practice, of course.

If you’re lying on your back, and you carry strong side, you will not be able to reach your gun unless you roll to your weak side, allowing your elbow to curl back so your hand can secure a shooting grip. A pocket holster has the same deficiencies, and requires the same move. An ankle holster provides an easier reach from your back, and even raises your foot to defend against the attacker, but can be tricky to access if lying on your stomach. A shoulder holster also works OK if you’re on your back, but be nearly unreachable if your are face down.

Regardless of how you carry, knowing how to draw from any position can save your life. So, unload your gun and try drawing from the many positions on the ground that you could be forced into, and you’ll be ready if you just happen to hit the ground.

Latest

Smith & Wesson Model 1854 Stealth Hunter lever-action rifle black gun right-side view on white background
Smith & Wesson Model 1854 Stealth Hunter lever-action rifle black gun right-side view on white background

Gun Of The Week: Smith & Wesson Model 1854 Stealth Hunter

Welcome to American Rifleman’s Gun Of The Week. For this episode, we have a version of Smith & Wesson’s Model 1854 lever-action that’s specifically made for field use. Meet the Model 1854 Stealth Hunter.

The Armed Citizen® April 25, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

The Great FN Gun Giveaway At NRAAM 2025

Here’s a chance to win a custom, one-of-a-kind FN 545 Tactical pistol at the 154th NRA Annual Meeting & Exhibits, April 24-27, in Atlanta, Ga. No purchase necessary.

Training With Moving Targets

Most target shooters understand static or bullseye-type stationary targets quite well, but did you know that adding motion into your training routine will improve practical marksmanship and the skills necessary to conquer defensive situations?

USA Shooting Celebrates 30th Anniversary

USA Shooting marks a historic milestone in April as it celebrates 30 years as the national governing body for international shooting sports within the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee.

Rifleman Review: Rock River Arms LAR-15M .17 HMR

Building a reliable semi-automatic rifle chambered for the .17 HMR can be a challenge, but Rock River Arms seems to have solved the issue with its unique RRA .17 HMR AR-style rifle.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.