www.thearmorylife.com/crush-grip-ayoob-technique/ The article "Lost Secret of Pistol Shooting: The Crush Grip" by Massad Ayoob, published in The Armory Life, explores the effectiveness of a firm grip, or "crush grip," in improving handgun shooting accuracy. Historically, shooters adhered to a "60/40" balance between the firing and support hand, but Ayoob argues for maximizing grip strength to combat a common shooting error known as "milking," where the non-trigger fingers reflexively tighten and disrupt aim. The article highlights the historical advocacy for a strong grip by notable experts like Rob Leatham, Brian Enos, Bill Jordan, and Col. Charles Askins, who likened the necessary force to "crushing granite." It also includes contemporary endorsements of this technique from trainers like Tom Givens and champion shooter Ben Stoeger, suggesting that a powerful grip ensures better control, enhanced recoil management, and increased retention in defensive scenarios.
