Pro Tips: Choosing an Action Pistol

by
posted on December 5, 2016
** 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. **
fullsizerender.jpg
Julie GolobAction Pistol Champion
I prefer firearms that do not have finger grooves since they are just someone else’s idea of a perfect grip. Grip size is critical for me because I have small hands. Easily reached controls are another priority for me. I started on 1911’s so I am partial to that grip angle. Not having to have to carry a full tool box to disassemble a gun is also a perk. I am not a fan of polymer magazines because where the notch sits for magazine release can get buggered and cause issues.

Bruce Piatt—Conventional/Action Pistol Champion
For iron sighted guns, the main things I watch for include: accuracy; trigger weight at or just over legal weight, reach, and feel—either a clean break after a roll or two-stage; consistency; balance—too much weight in the rear tends to cause front end shake; sight radius—the longer the radius with iron sights, the easier to detect sighting errors; sight picture—white outlines and 3-dot combat sights aren’t very practical for competition; and adjustability—must have. Lastly, the grip purchase must give the shooter control during recoil.

Latest

Akronwins 1 Lede
Akronwins 1 Lede

Collegiate Rifle: Underdog Akron Stuns Top-Ranked Rivals, Wins Four-Team Tournament

Akron rifle stuns top-ranked teams in Columbus as senior Natalia Siek breaks multiple records, leading the No. 17 Zips to victory.

CMP Names Decorated Marksman Hank Gray as New Training and Education Manager

Veteran shooter and Team USA coach Hank Gray joins CMP to lead training and education, fueling the next generation of marksmanship excellence.

What’s In Your Range Bag, Ashlyn Blake?

WVU rifle star and 2025 CRCA Rookie of the Year Ashlyn Blake shares her favorite gear, range bag essentials and the story behind her shooting journey.

Accuracy Testing: Group Growth

A 1,350-round study compares 21- and 50-shot groups in a revolver, finding group sizes average 25% larger at 50 shots and vary by load.

Deaf Youth Shooter Overcomes Obstacles to Compete

Deaf teen trapshooter breaks barriers to compete safely and confidently, inspiring teammates and reshaping perceptions in Minnesota.

Mount Aloysius College Tops First Mid-Atlantic Rifle Conference Rankings of 2025-26 Season

Mount Aloysius College dominates the opening MAC rifle rankings, while standout Molly Miller tops the individual air rifle leaderboard.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Sports USA delivered to your inbox.